The tourism economic argument for wetlands: a case study approach

In debates about the future of the countryside and future landscapes, the coherent economic case is often lost or at best weak. This is surprising since numerous case studies highlight the potential and positive contributions of wetland sites to both rural and urban areas. This oversight sometimes compounded by ideas of economics poorly applied, leads to failure to maximise benefits. It often places wetland landscape projects outside the economic planning pale, as an issue of biodiversity benefit and perhaps ‘added value’ only. This serious oversight can disadvantage attempts to restore wetlands, and undermines possible economic and social benefits of projects too. By selling ourselves short, we miss the political high ground of economic sustainable development with sound ecological underpinning. The environmental resource is seen as peripheral to issues of social benefits and economic growth. Hidden in sustainable development rhetoric and best value indicators, it is there nevertheless. We demonstrate case studies showing how a more enlightened integrated approach can change this. Holistic consideration wider benefits and functions of wetlands justify their conservation, and with targeted investment provide tangible benefits that grow over time. It is not intended that economics displace ecology as a key discipline in wetland conservation, but ecologists must learn to value more effectively what we do, and do more effectively what we value.