Tourism Can Actually Boost Wild Atlantic Way Biodiversity, Says Trinity College Dublin Study
-
Loading... - Leticia Campana
- 27 Feb 2025
- 25 Views
- 0 Like
- 0 Comment
A recent study from Trinity College Dublin has revealed that high-traffic tourism can positively impact biodiversity, challenging the common belief that tourism harms natural habitats. Conducted at a popular location in County Kerry along the Wild Atlantic Way, the research highlights how well-managed tourism can coexist with conservation efforts.
Dr. Andrew Torsney, from the School of Natural Sciences, led the study alongside Professor Yvonne Buckley, with their findings published in the journal Global Ecology and Conservation. The researchers focused on Derrynane, a village within one of Ireland’s Special Areas of Conservation on the Iveragh Peninsula, known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Derrynane House, the historic home of 19th-century MP Daniel O’Connell, is situated within a National Park managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW).
The study aimed to assess the impact of tourism on biodiversity, particularly in light of the fact that approximately 50% of protected sites in Europe, and even more in Ireland, face tourism-related threats. Dr. Torsney noted, “Essentially, tourism can and does cause damage if it’s not managed correctly.”
At Derrynane, the researchers observed that the introduction of cows for short periods of low-intensity grazing helped preserve and even increase the number of plant species in the area. Their findings indicated that biodiversity modestly increased in grazed habitats, while ungrazed areas experienced a 20% decline in biodiversity by the fourth year of the study. Notable plant species that thrived under this grazing management included Fair Flax (Linum catharticum), Pyramidal Orchid (Anacamptis pyramidalis), and Lady’s Bed-Straw (Galium verum).
Commissioned by Fáilte Ireland, the study sought to determine whether large volumes of tourism could occur without negatively impacting biodiversity if managed appropriately. Dr. Torsney explained that while tourist destinations often showcase breathtaking natural landscapes, there has been a prevailing belief that tourism damages these habitats.
As nature-based tourism continues to grow, the study provides valuable insights for authorities looking to align tourism with conservation efforts. The OPW’s strategy of balancing visitor access with grazing management has resulted in increased plant diversity, enhancing the overall experience for visitors who appreciate a vibrant landscape.
Dr. Torsney emphasized the need for a shift in perspective regarding tourism’s impact on the environment. “Most of the scientific literature focuses on using people as a proxy for damage,” he said. “Our findings highlight how targeted conservation grazing supports the health of species-rich dune habitats, providing a valuable tool for land managers seeking to balance conservation with public access.”
This research underscores the potential for tourism and conservation to work hand in hand, offering a pathway for sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the visitor experience along the Wild Atlantic Way.
