A Literature Review of Ecotourism Carrying Capacity Measurements: Initial Findings

The most challenging aspect of carrying capacity is measuring the concept in terms of realistic indicators that will capture the complexity of any given system. In lieu of numerical upper limits to visitors at tourism destinations as earlier defined, thresholds and management tools to operationalize carrying capacity in each relevant state (e.g., land use) of a defined system have evolved. These frameworks allow multiple data sourcing and methodologies and participatory planning. Their practicality and flexibility are invaluable to sustainable tourism planning. However, some data for certain states may not be available and substituting these with approximate values may entail some subjectivity. In the interest of operational significance, proxy indicators may be developed and must be validated carefully and periodically assessed for comparability and replicability. The development of a composite outcome-based and resource-specific approach with a corresponding set of indicators will be useful in facilitating effective tourism management