Island tourism carrying capacity in the UNESCO Site Laurisilva of Madeira

Mota, Luís; Franco, Mara; Santos, Rossana

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.13/5170

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Authors

Mota, Luís

Franco, Mara

Santos, Rossana

Abstract(s)

The Laurisilva of Madeira is an important natural resource as well as a location for nature-based tourism and recreational activities. Despite UNESCO’s concerns and recommendations for assessing tourism capacity, the local population is perceived as overusing this resource; yet precisely how many tourists visit its most popular areas remains unknown. Tourism carrying capacity (TCC) was assessed on two Rabaçal trails using a specific formulation relating physical aspects to environmental correction factors. Tourism carrying capacity was found to be below theoretical limits, and trail access was not restricted despite being a major concern in natural resource management.