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Report on how to achieve balanced growth of tourism published

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September 6, 2019

A report on how government authorities, entrepreneurs, residents and knowledge institutes can contribute to a balanced growth of inbound and domestic tourism in The Netherlands has been published.

The number of tourists has grown exponentially in the last 10 years, and will continue its upward trend. This report is based on an integrated perspective that considers the interrelationships among economic development, the human environment and society as a whole.

The report is commissioned by the Dutch Council for the Environment and Infrastructure (Rli). Prof. dr. René van de Duim of the Cultural Geography Group is a member of the advisory committee which prepared this report.

The Rli feels that a change in perspective is needed in tourism policies to prevent the growth in this sector from causing more disruption and harm. Focus on just the economic aspects of tourism is not enough. Attention should also be turned to its influence on accessibility and use of public spaces, property, nature and the environment. Hitherto, these aspects are examined only after damage has been done. Therefore, a good balance is needed between, on the one hand, the economic advantages, and on the other hand, the capacity and resources from the population, the environment and the habitats.

More information (in Dutch) here.