Die wirtschaftliche Bedeutung von Schutzgebieten

Wien

2005

Artikel aus einem BuchUnselbständiges Werk

15541

200133812

The primary function of protected areas is nature conservation. Recently, in central Europe, consideration of protected areas is being integrated into tourism planning strategy, as part of a holistic approach. Consequently the economic benefits a local community stands to gain, as a result of tourism in a protected area, need to be assessed.As part of a research project, a demand-based method to ascertain these potential economic effects was developed. The results of this research clearly indicate that tourism in protected areas can generate considerable benefits for the regional economy. For instance, in Müritz National Park it is estimated that the equivalent of 628 jobs was created, while in Hoher Flaming and in Altmuhtal Nature Parks 211 and 483 jobs were created respectively. As a significant generator of economic effects, as indicated by this research, more importance should be attached to the issue of tourism in protected areas, amongst political circles. As the financial benefits of tourism in protected areas become clear, the acceptance levels of both political decision makers and indeed local communities to tourism development, generally increase.