Island Tourism Policy and Sustainable Development

“This book is a rare example of an examination of the two crucial elements, policy, and governance, that often fail to resolve the difficult issues resulting from the development of tourism in many island settings. What makes this book even more distinctive is its focus on sustainable development, the goal of many islands but one which is hardly ever achieved, and the way that the book utilizes a range of frameworks and approaches to illustrate pathways that could be followed to move significantly towards the goal of sustainability. McLeod tackles two major issues that often bedevil island states, those of policy (formulation and implementation) and governance (for whom for what purpose). Placed in the overall context of sustainable development, this book will be important reading for those concerned over the future of islands in particular, but also of relevance to all who desire to see destinations move towards the problematic goal of sustainability.” -Professor Richard Butler, Emeritus Professor of Tourism, University of Strathclyde “In this much anticipated book, McLeod addresses the key governance challenges for small islands that are dependent on and intricately entangled with tourism and the wider visitor economy. For many small islands, the decision to engage with tourism, evokes a ‘damned if they do, and damned if they don’t’ situation. Islands have forever remained attractive as sites of touristic consumption, however, in the present era of climate change and its resultant effects, islands, and small island developing states, find themselves on the frontline of the battle for survival. As McLeod rightly implores in this book, unless tourism policy and planning regimes exercise competent governance, islands will be buffeted by the vicissitudes of an external planetary environment that is volatile, and whatever tourism remains, will still have its levers controlled largely by outsiders, leaving locals with not much more than the crumbs on the table.” -Joseph M. Cheer, Professor of Sustainable Tourism and Heritage, Associate Dean at International School of Social Sciences, Geography, Tourism and Planning, Western Sydney University “Dr. McLeod's manuscript on tourism and sustainability is a compelling exploration of crucial elements like structure, governance, strategies, and inclusion. Aimed at enhancing tourist experiences and residents' quality of life with resilience principles, this book is indispensable for those interested in the future of tourism in small island destinations. It provides profound insights relevant academically and for policymakers and industry professionals committed to fostering sustainable practices, making it an essential guide for shaping the industry's future.” -Professor Robertico Croes, Professor of Tourism Economics and Management, University of Central Florida “This comprehensive work explores the intricate intersections of island tourism, sustainable development, and effective policy-making, with a focus on the unique challenges faced by small islands in developing nations. The book pays special attention to managerial perspectives, encompassing environmental, political, and governmental considerations. This book is a valuable resource for shaping the sustainable future of island tourism, benefiting policymakers, scholars, and practitioners.” -Meng Qu, Associate Professor, Vice Director, Center for Advanced Tourism Studies, Hokkaikdo University, Japan “This book is an important resource for islands seeking to develop tourism sustainably. Its comprehensive coverage of policy and governance issues paired with practical case studies from different parts of the world are relevant to practitioners, students and researchers alike. Mainland destinations struggling with environmental and social crises may also find valuable and innovative ideas, as islands are microcosms of main-lands and can point the way forward.” -Professor Emerita Pauline Sheldon, University of Hawai’i