Nature Based Tourism – Challenges and Opportunities?

We seek to find the right balance between climate change, tourism, and the growing demand for nature-based travel. But its often a tightrope walk, especially as it is a highly emotive issue.

On one hand, a growing number of governments are calling for more wellness tourism and encouraging visitors to seek out natural places for adventure, and a break from the ever-expanding concrete of our cities. As we often hear, kids really do need to “touch the grass” and connect with the outdoors.

On the other, climate change is making these places more vulnerable than ever, with rising insurance costs all putting pressure on both operators and communities.

Local fire authorities also understandably have a low risk appetite and don’t have the time or expertise to work with industry to develop solutions, meaning projects fail at that regulatory hurdle.

Not all areas, activities or accommodation within a region have the same risk profile yet are often bundled under an overarching risk-focused planning scheme. It’s the same with insurance.

Glamping in a luxury tent can never survive a fire but having one central BAL rated evacuation building can, yet in some regions that is not an allowable option. Modular buildings are also more adaptable in flood zones.

Of course, we can never eliminate risk entirely, but there are many ways that it can be managed smartly and transparently. We all need to be open to those ideas whether its government, industry, authorities or councils.

Ultimately, it’s about still allowing new experiences that meet our mental health needs but also include mature risk management. This is important for all -especially the next generation- so we can keep reaping the significant benefits of time in nature, even as the world changes around us.

Contact us to let me know your thoughts or experience.