Tourism and the environment: A geographical perspective

Abstract

The paper reviews key elements of the relationship between tourism and the environment, with particular reference to the environmental impacts of tourism from a geographical perspective. Following a discussion of the appeal of the environment for tourism, the paper examines the way in which tourism brings about changes in destination areas. The point is made that disproportionate attention has been given to research on recreation and its relationship with the environment compared to tourism and that this needs to be corrected in the future. There is then a brief review of the difficulties of monitoring change in the environment and managing the effects of tourism in destination areas. The paper concludes by identifying key questions and research needs which should be addressed. © 2000 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.