Climate Change Impacts on the Tourism Industry in Georgia

Abstract

This study delves into how climate change affects nature-based tourism in Georgia, focusing on its impact on winter and Seaside tourism. Concerns arise from observed snow cover trends at pivotal ski resorts such as Bakuriani and Gudauri, indicating potential threats to the winter tourism calendar. The escalation of climate-induced natural disasters and coastal erosion poses immediate economic risks, necessitating prompt adaptation strategies. Economic models project adverse impacts on tourism and GDP, emphasizing the need for tailored mitigation measures. Variances in climate impacts across diverse tourist zones underscore the vital requirement for unified and comprehensive adaptation approaches. The article advocates for multifaceted strategies encompassing business, consumer behavior, and destination dynamics, stressing the integration of climate research into policy frameworks and awareness initiatives. This integration is vital to foster resilient and sustainable tourism development in Georgia amid the exigencies posed by climate change, ensuring the safeguarding of the state's tourism future.