The 74-hectare island of Apo in Dauin, Negros Oriental, said to be one of the top dive spots in the world, is at a crossroads.
They want to increase tourist arrivals by putting up a more convenient docking facility for boats but scientists are worried over the Island’s carrying capacity.
Indeed, the lives of the people of Apo have greatly improved since its tourism potential was discovered in the mid 1980s. The island is on the map of eco-tourism sites throughout the world, such as the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.
A government’s desire to increase tourism revenues is understandable, particularly for islands where economies often rely on the hospitality sector. Tourism injects vital revenue into local economies.
On the other hand, overburdening an island’s carrying capacity—which is the maximum population/visitor load that an area can sustain without degrading it—threatens both the environment, and the quality of life for residents.
Scientists warn that when an island exceeds its carrying capacity, it suffers from environmental degradation—beaches erode, coral reefs bleach, freshwater resources deplete, and waste management systems become overwhelmed.
These issues lead to a deteriorating natural environment, which, ironically, is the very asset that draws tourists.
It could also diminish the quality of the tourist experience, discouraging return visits, and damaging the island’s reputation.
Residents, too, face challenges, from rising property prices, and traffic congestion to a diminished sense of cultural identity as the island becomes over-commercialized.
It is crucial for the local government to balance the need for economic growth with environmental preservation and community well-being by implementing policies that cap visitor numbers, encourage sustainable practices, and protect natural resources.
For instance, supporting eco-tourism, promoting off-peak travel, and investing in green infrastructure can maintain a steady stream of tourism revenue, while ensuring the island remains livable for its inhabitants.
Ultimately, the goal should not be to maximize tourist numbers but to manage them wisely, ensuring that the island’s allure endures for generations to come.
