Seeing biodiversity as an opportunity for tourism

[Julie Bousquet]

I newly joined the European Ecotourism Network and to start I'd like to share my master thesis dealing with the place of biodiversity in territories' tourism development. I focused on how we can see biodiversity as an asset and not (as it's often the case) as a constraint for tourism development, thinking that if local players see biodiversity as an asset for themselves and their activity they'll try more to act in a sustainable way.

This thesis has been really welcomed by the jury with the grade of 18/20. I'm glad to share it and also to get some feedback, I'll see how I can take them into consideration. For the moment it's only in French but I plan to translate it in English in the coming weeks.

Abstract : 

Tourism and biodiversity are closely linked and they have many reciprocal impacts. This interdependence is exacerbated in natural protected areas which are territories where tourism
development has to be done coherently with biodiversity protection and management goals. The question here is to understand the place and the role played by biodiversity in tourism development of territories. The problematic is to know how to enhance opportunities and reduce constraints brought by biodiversity and its protection in local players’ eyes. The hypothesis established deal with the importance of social dialogue and with the economic value and the socio-cultural value of biodiversity. They are enlightened with the study case of Fouzon Floodplain natural area. Located in Cher Valley (France), this natural area preserved by two Conservatoires d’espaces naturels is an interesting place for outdoor activities development. It fits therefore with our thinking framework.

Thanks,

Julie

[Julie Bousquet]

Dear Nikki, Dear Eliana, 

Thanks for your interest. I didn't take the time yet to translate my thesis, I'd started but in the meanwhile I've changed of job... I try to translate a piece from time to time but I can't guarantee when I'll be finished. I remember though that you're interested in reading it, so I'll let you know when translation will be complete.

All the best,

Julie

[Nikki Rose]

Wonderful. Yes, I look forward to the English version too!  Please keep us posted.

Over the past 15 years that I've worked in the field of eco-agritourism, good initiatives are ever-evolving.  But they rarely materialize as fast or securely long-term as we'd like them to be. And many truly great initiatives are rarely on the net or in the news because they are grassroots - from the heart and not initiated, maintained or supported by "relevant authorities."

There have been great strides on the positive side but there's so much more to be done to celebrate while protecting our biodiversity on a community level as well as tourism level. It's all about awareness of the crucial role biodiversity plays in our world. If we don't protect it, we risk everything.

Best regards,

Nikki

Crete's Culinary Sanctuaries

[Elina Sarantou]

Dear Julie,

your thesis looks great! Have you found the time to translate it yet? We could post it in our library. If you would like more feedback by stakeholders in the field, I would suggest you start a discussion on the role of biodiversity in ecotourism.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need any further information.

Best,

Elina

[Nikki Rose]

Dear Julie -

This is great! I look forward to your translated version. I've been organizing seminars in Crete, Greece that focus on our biodiversity. It's a wonderful way to teach so many interrelated topics and find ways to celebrate and also protect our natural heritage.

Best regards,

Nikki