Sustainable tourism and natural World Heritage : priorities for action

The aim of this study is to examine the gaps in our understanding of how tourism development affects natural World Heritage Sites in order to support the development of sustainable tourism these sites. Through an increased understanding of the risks and opportunities associated to tourism development and growth in World Heritage, this study hopes to encourage tourism development that while protecting the integrity of the site, also brings income generation opportunities for local communities associated with World Heritage Sites, offers financial and other support for the conservation of the sites, and contributes to visitors’ awareness about the values of nature.