International Journal of Small Economies

IJSE ISSUE 3

A HUEBNER

Vol. 03, No. 01, Year 2012, Pages 1-10

Abstract

Climate change has become an important aspect to consider for the development of destinations. In particular low-lying island states, many of which are highly susceptible to socio-economic and natural implications following from climate change and many of which are economically dependent on visitors arriving on (long-haul) flights, are in need of establishing ‘appropriate’ adaptation and mitigation measures to ensure future sustainable growth. The Maldives is an island nation with suitable strategies already in place. Yet, little has been done to examine the awareness, support and willingness of tourism stakeholders to put such into action. This paper explores selected viewpoints of Maldivian resort managers through an online questionnaire which was distributed in the end of 2009. Findings show high awareness of climate change and its impacts as well as of existing policies and strategies. However, participants raised concerns about current and projected consequences of climate change for the local as well as for the global industry. Albeit willingness for the realization of measures is discernable, strong doubts have been uttered towards governmental enforcement and monitoring. This pilot study underlines the little progress made in strengthening collaboration between the governmental institutions formulating adaptation and mitigation measures and the resorts implementing these. Comparison between the findings and more recent studies points out that, still, ways must be found to advance adaptations. Recommendations are made.

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Resort Management Perspectives in Climate Change: A Pilot Study from the Maldives

A HUEBNER

Vol. 03, No. 01, Year 2012, Pages 1-10