Ecotourism as a tool for natural and cultural heritage conservation: A case study of Alhoceima and Talassemtane National Parks from Northern Morocco

Identifier:  TDX:3407

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX3407

Authors:  Lamnadi, Yassir

Abstract:
This study investigates the sustainability of the tourism activity inside two national parks in Morocco (Alhoceima and Talassemtane). An evaluation approach was developed on the basis of established European sustainability criteria and indicators (ESIT) which special application of additional indicators suggested or already applied to national parks or protected areas in general. Divided into three main criteria groups (Environmental, cultural and economic), the indicators were evaluated based on the findings semi-structured interviews conducted with tourism stakeholders, questionnaire surveys with tourist, and closed groups discussions with local community members. Field observation also was used a source of direct information. Findings of this study revealed that environmental aspect of conservation inside both national parks suffers from considerable shortage. Conservation plans and landscape management are usually outdated and not fully implemented. The lack public use plans and carrying capacity controls contribute to the degradation of the environment. On the cultural aspect, a certain improvement is reflected on the empowerment of local cultural values as a tourism product; however, cultural monument and sites are endangered of disappearance due to the weak maintenance and protection efforts. Economically speaking and due to the weak official control procedures, the economic benefits of the tourism activity are ambiguous reflecting the incoherent sector structure.