Themes

Conference Theme: Wild Benefits

This conference will explore and discuss the diversity of benefits that sustainable wildlife tourism can produce for both wildlife and the economy, and benefits wildlife can bring to general tourism. In recent years the news has been dominated by global crises, from financial crashes to acts of terrorism, increasing the desire for people to escape these negative influences in their lives and immerse themselves in the beauty and grandeur of wildlife. 

From the intangible health and wellbeing benefits of observing the majestic Humpback whale breach in the open ocean to the environmental benefits that conservation awareness can bring, the range of positive impacts that wildlife tourism produces has been well documented. Communities thrive on well managed tourism with economic growth creating opportunities for both local communities and operators.

However, these benefits are at risk if not managed and monitored appropriately. This conference will also address the concepts and strategies required to build and maintain these benefits to enable the wildlife tourism industry to realise its full potential of sustainability. In a world where the possibility of seeing some species of wildlife in their natural habitats is close to becoming a rarity, this acknowledgement and promotion of the far reaching benefits of interacting with wildlife cannot come soon enough.

Based upon the concept of Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) the following four sub-themes are: 

Going for the Green

Environmental Benefits: how wildlife tourism can assist and promote real world environmental and
conservation outcomes by quality interpretation, best practice standards and raising awareness by
presenting unforgettable visitor experiences.

 

Spreading the Wealth

Economic Benefits: creating and managing economic strategies to ensure that all stakeholders benefit
from the tourism industry while promoting ethical and responsible conduct to communities involved.

 

Heart and Soul

Social Benefits: research in recent years has confirmed the health and wellbeing benefits that contact
with nature can bring. This theme will explore the intangible, but critically important ingredients of
how memorable interactions with wildlife can enhance your quality of life.

 

Reality Bites

Risk Management: none of the above benefits are produced without clear, accurate planning and
ongoing monitoring. Not only must a tourism stakeholder represent a quality product, but
manage the risks of maintaining sustainability, encompassing all of the above factors. This theme
will explore the core essence of achieving sustainable wildlife tourism.