TO5002 - Introduction to Tourism and the Environment

This subject examines the positive and negative impacts of tourism on the physical, economic and socio-cultural environment. It includes an extensive introduction to key ecological theories and to a wide range of Australasian environments and the major biophysical processes which structure them. Current models of tourism development and its impacts are reviewed. Aspects of the legislative framework governing the interaction between tourism and the environment are examined. Although the subject has an Australasian emphasis, it takes an international perspective with examples from other parts of the world. The subject is assessed with a final exam and a series of field-trip related assessments culminating in a report on tourism and the environment.

Learning Outcomes

• develop a critical appreciation of environmental factors important to tourism development and the biophysical and social impacts of tourism;
• analyse drivers and impacts of tourism activities to their surrounding environments and recommend solutions to these issues;
• assess legislation and government-led management aspects of tourism and the environment;
• critically review green tourism practices for achieving sustainable tourism.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.