Cultural Sustainability and Protected Area Management: Emerging Local Issues from Isla Navarino, Chile

Declaration of protected area status in a region often accelerates tensions between biocultural preservation and the impacts of increased tourist visitation and access to particular sites. Local community concerns typically revolve around the rate and extent of tourism development, and how extant natural and cultural values are incorporated within planning processes. This paper presents case study research about emerging local issues faced by inhabitants of Isla Navarino, Chile, who face prospects of increased tourism on the island. Issues investigated include how natural and cultural values can be maintained and shared, and the needs of residents and nearby communities. The contemporary cultural diversity of Isla Navarino that has formed through historical and geographical processes presents additional challenges that require special consideration within inclusive, participative planning processes. Some specific recommendations that link people and landscapes are given