Tourism carrying capacity: Concept and issues

Abstract

This article examines the concept of carrying capacity, the calculation and control of which has not been taken seriously by developers, whether public or private, especially in developing countries. This has resulted in many cases in overcapacity within the areas developed for tourism, causing the destruction or near-destruction of historical landmarks and even of the natural environment. Thus it is necessary for the concept of tourism carrying capacity to be included in the planning for tourism as initiated by governments and other developers, in spite of difficulties in measurement.