Tourism has always been considered a powerful economic engine, capable of generating wealth, creating jobs, and fostering cultural exchange among peoples.
However, in recent decades, the tourism industry has seen exponential growth that has led to phenomena of overtourism, or tourist overcrowding that exceeds the carrying capacity of a destination, causing a series of environmental, social, and economic problems.
The Phenomenon of Overtourism
Exponential Growth of Global Tourism
According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the number of international tourists increased from 527 million in 1995 to over 1.4 billion in 2018.
This growth has been fueled by various factors, including:
- Travel Accessibility: the advent of low-cost airlines has made international travel cheaper and more accessible to a broader segment of the population.
- Digitalization: online platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and TripAdvisor have simplified the booking of accommodations and activities, further democratizing access to tourism.
- Promotion through Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, and other social platforms have helped create "trendy destinations," bringing masses of tourists to previously little-known places.
Destinations Affected by Overtourism
Here are three examples of places in the world heavily affected by the phenomenon of mass tourism:
- Venice, Italy: with over 25 million visitors a year and a constantly decreasing resident population, the lagoon city is one of the most striking examples of overtourism.
Cruise ships docking in the lagoon contribute to the erosion of the city's foundations and the congestion of the canals.
- Barcelona, Spain: the Catalan city faces issues of overcrowding, rising real estate prices, and gentrification of historic neighborhoods, pushing residents to protest against mass tourism.
- Machu Picchu, Peru: the ancient Inca city attracts millions of tourists each year, putting at risk the conservation of the archaeological site and the surrounding ecosystem.
Environmental Impact
Ecosystem Degradation
The massive influx of tourists can lead to the degradation of fragile ecosystems. For example:
- Coral Reefs: in Thailand, the famous Maya Bay beach was closed to the public in 2018 due to damage caused by tourist activities, such as indiscriminate boat anchoring and water pollution.
- Mountains and Natural Trails: excessive trampling can erode the soil, damage vegetation, and disturb wildlife. Mount Everest, for example, suffers from pollution due to waste left by climbers.
Pollution
- CO2 Emissions: air travel contributes significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions. The increase in international flights has a direct impact on climate change.
- Solid Waste: tourist destinations often are not equipped to handle the increase in waste produced by visitors, leading to disposal issues and pollution.
Effects on Local Communities
Cost of Living Increase
Tourism can cause an increase in property prices and consumer goods, making it difficult for local residents to maintain their standard of living.
For example, renting apartments through platforms like Airbnb has reduced the availability of affordable housing for residents in many cities, often creating a housing emergency.
Loss of Cultural Identity
The commercialization of local culture to cater to the tastes of tourists can lead to a loss of authenticity.
Traditions can be trivialized or altered to become more "marketable," compromising cultural heritage.
Social Tensions
Overcrowding and disrespectful behavior by tourists can generate tensions between visitors and residents.
In some cities, there have been acts of vandalism against tourist facilities and public protests.
Long-Term Economic Consequences
Economic Dependence
Economies that heavily rely on tourism are vulnerable to external events such as economic crises, natural disasters, or pandemics.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted this vulnerability, with many destinations suffering significant economic losses.
Deterioration of the Tourist Experience
Overtourism can also compromise the very experience of the visitors.
Overcrowding, endless queues, and overloaded services can make destinations less attractive, leading to a decline in the number of tourists over the long term.
Possible Solutions
Implementation of Sustainable Tourism Practices
- Eco-certifications: promote accommodations and tour operators that adhere to high environmental standards.
- Tourist Education: raise awareness among visitors about the importance of responsible behavior through informative campaigns.
Regulation and Management of Tourist Flows
- Access Limitations: introduce advanced booking systems and daily quotas for particularly vulnerable sites.
- Entrance Fees: apply taxes or fees to access certain areas, using the collected funds for conservation and maintenance.
Diversification of Tourist Offerings
- Promotion of Alternative Destinations: redistribute tourist flows by encouraging visits to lesser-known places.
- Off-Season Tourism: encourage travel during low-season periods to reduce pressure during peak times.
Involvement and Protection of Local Communities
- Community Participation: involve residents in decisions concerning tourism development to ensure their interests are represented.
- Cultural Heritage Protection: implement laws and regulations that protect traditions and historical sites from excessive commercialization.
Case Study: The Island of Santorini
Santorini, Greece, is an example of how management measures can help mitigate overtourism.
The island has introduced a daily limit on the number of cruise ships that can dock, thus reducing the number of simultaneous visitors and alleviating pressure on local infrastructure.
Overtourism is a complex issue that requires articulated solutions and collaboration among governments, the tourism industry, local communities, and tourists themselves.
It is crucial to adopt a sustainable approach that balances the economic benefits of tourism with the need to preserve the environment, culture, and well-being of local populations.
Only through conscious and responsible actions can we ensure that the wonders of our planet remain intact for future generations.