Tourism Resource Appraisal
Summary
Tourism resource appraisal encompasses the systematic identification, classification and evaluation of both tangible and intangible assets that underpin visitor experiences. It integrates natural features (landscapes, biodiversity, climate), built heritage (historic sites, architectural landmarks) and cultural expressions (festivals, crafts, local customs) into a coherent framework for planning and decision-making. By combining inventory surveys with spatial analysis and stakeholder consultation, practitioners can assess the quality, rarity and sensitivity of resources, as well as the potential for sustainable development. Key objectives include determining resource carrying capacity, estimating economic and social value, and identifying areas where conservation or enhancement is required. Appraisal methods draw on disciplines such as geography, economics and anthropology, and often employ tools like geographic information systems (GIS), multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) and participatory mapping. This holistic approach not only informs zoning and infrastructure investment but also supports policies that balance visitor satisfaction with long-term resource protection, thereby securing both community well-being and ecological integrity.
Research from Nature Portfolio
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Tourism Resource Appraisal publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in tourism resource appraisal across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Tourism resource: Any natural, cultural or built asset that attracts visitors and contributes to the tourism experience.
Carrying capacity: The maximum level of visitor use that a site can sustain without unacceptable alteration to its physical environment or visitor satisfaction.
Ecosystem services: The benefits people derive from ecosystems, including provisioning (food), regulating (climate), cultural (recreation) and supporting (biodiversity) services.
Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA): A methodological framework that evaluates multiple factors by assigning weights and scores to derive a composite ranking of options.
Geographic information systems (GIS): Computer-based tools for capturing, storing, analysing and visualising spatial and geographic data.
Participatory appraisal: An inclusive process that engages stakeholders in assessing and prioritising resource values and management needs.
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