The Island Tourism Quandary

Small, remote islands are currently the most vulnerable parts of the planet. Most can only be reached by flying. The economies of many depend, however, on tourism. For example, before the Covid pandemic, the Pacific islands had 1.8 million annual arrivals of tourists by air and cruise ships. Plane and cruise ship 'greenhouse gas' emissions are, of course, heating the planet. This raises sea levels; increases the incidence and intenity of violent storms; destroys coral reefs etc. These favoured holiday locations could consequently be effectively destroyed by their visitors. Susanne Becken (Griffith University, Australia) considers this island dilemma (https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/dec/15/cop28-agreement-electric-aviation-renewable-energy). Becken feels two potential solutions are evident. Some islands are reducing the intensity of tourism, making it a less damaging force. She also suggests that developing alternative (less emitting) means of transport would be helpful. She says that electrically-powered planes may provide an answer. Electric planes are, however, very much in their infancy and their range is currently very limited. The problem may not, of course, be solved by 'local' island 'solutions'. It's really what happens over the entire planet, that will determine the fate of these islands (and the rest of us).