The Impact of Coastal Erosion on Tourism: A Theoretical Model

Francesco Silvestri

doi:10.4236/tel.2018.85056

Abstract

Seashore and coastal areas are the object of human pressure, affecting population well-being and threatening the future economic growth of local communities. To deal with this issue, we discuss an original theoretical model representing the change in tourism demand for a seaside site affected by coastal erosion due to environmental problems. We find out that the decline of the tourist location could occur not only in case of a strong seashore reduction, but even when the coastal erosion still permits tourism demand and satisfactory income for tourism operators.

Highlights

Coastal management and conservation is a top issue in many countries and international organizations, such as UNEP and European Union
Seashore and coastal areas are the object of human pressure, affecting population well-being and threatening the future economic growth of local communities
To deal with this issue, we discuss an original theoretical model representing the change in tourism demand for a seaside site affected by coastal erosion due to environmental problems

Summary

Introduction

Coastal management and conservation is a top issue in many countries and international organizations, such as UNEP and European Union. As a matter of fact, sustainable development implies to give up the maximization of each sector objectives, for a compromise equilibrium aimed at recomposing the conflict among economy, ecology and social subject To discuss this statement we ought to introduce the following diagram (Figure 1). The interaction among the different elements of sustainable development and among the different kind of carrying capacity thresholds (social, economic and environmental) are the basis of the forecasting model set up to estimate the relation between tourism income and coastal erosion. Drawn in a Cartesian plan, the three functions give the following diagram (Figure 2)

Results

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Conclusions

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