The nature of dive tourism in KwaZulu-Natal and its impact on environmental sustainability

Abstract

Any form of diving if not properly managed can cause considerable damage to the marine ecosystem. Dive tourism aims to encourage conservation, generate revenue, and support the development of local neighbourhoods. Understanding its connections with ecological factors are vital in the perspective of sustainability. Dive sites are threatened by the impacts of diving, and constant research is necessary to evaluate diving impacts, diver behaviour and environmental awareness of such sites. The aim of this study is to delve into the profile of dive tourists in KwaZulu-Natal, and to examine the impacts of dive tourism on the sustainability of the environment. The human perception in understanding what types of strategies need implementation in dive management to ensure future sustainability is extremely vital. This study will therefore be highly valuable towards the improvement and reinforcement of dive rules and regulations and will advance the need for environmental education and awareness towards achieving sustainability among current and future divers. A mixed method approach will be used in the study, and the use of interviews and questionnaires will allow for quantitative and qualitative data to be collected. The target population for the study includes divers, dive instructors and dive site owners. The study found that most respondents said they were mindful of the negative environmental impacts of specific diving methods. Divers were also aware of the most common dive practices that help sustain the marine environment whilst diving. Recommendations were made in terms of the sustainability of the industry based on the responses from the data collected.