Implementation of ecotourism principles in Pembrokeshire Coastal Essay

Implementation of ecotourism principles in Pembrokeshire Coastal National Park . Success or failure- Conclusion and Abstract - Essay Example The principles of ecotourism as laid down by †¦ have been used as the basis of assessment and the non-compliance with any one of these principles is suggestive of failure. The rationale for the research lies in its interest to the wider community. PNCB in Wales was chosen because of its location and because of the suitability of Wales generally as an ecotourism destination. The collection of data was done by means of survey questionnaires which were done face to face, by telephone interviews and emailed questionnaire. The methodology was both qualitative and quantitative as both served to reinforce and strengthen the other. The findings revealed that even though the visitors to the park were impressed with the scenic beauty and would recommended it as an ecotourism site there were still shortcomings that needed to be addressed. PNCP which was used to test the principles was weak in a number of respects. The management was not able to control the traffic through the park as it is an open area. The full cooperation of the community with the NPA is necessary to facilitate the implementation of the principles of ecotourism. The decision to conserve energy and preserve the environment is currently left to the locals who do not place major importance on the issue at this time. Conclusions, Implications and Recommendations In concluding it is clear from the findings that there is no standard definition for ecotourism. However, the principles have provided sufficient guidelines to indicate that ecotourism principles have not been fully implemented at PNCP. The park is affected by increased tourist visitation with over 4.2 million visitors per year. This problem concurs with Weaver’s (2001) and Butler’s (1991) finding that increased tourist visitation is one of the most persistent problems facing parks and protected areas in the UK. The authorities are unable to control the entrance to the park because it is an open area. There is no real possibility of keeping anybody out. How do you limit the number of visitors in an open area? An additional problem faced in terms of minimising the negative impacts is the fact that ninety nine per cent (99%) of the park is in private hands. This problem may seem irresolvable. However, there is always a way. It simply means that the several owners would have to cooperate in order to facilitate the security of the park for it to implement this particular aspect of the principles of ecotourism. Establishing this principle is and will continue to be the real challenge for PNCP under the existing conditions. This principle, however, may not seem suitable based on the issues on the ground (Diamantis 2004). While people cannot be forced to practice preservation and conservation in terms of the use of energy, recycling and proper disposal of waste, educating them will take some time. It has to start in the schools and other institutions which can help in a positive way. Young children can teach their parents and older siblings a lot. They are the standard bearers of the future. The older folks are already set in their ways and may not think that these efforts will impact their well being in any major way. They are taken up with the daily problems in the economy. However, there are still ways that can be used to get them involved in energy conservation and preservation of the environment. The other major institutions such as the church and local clubs can be used as a means of getting the locals to comply with guidelines. They