Study on the economic, social and environmental impact of tourism in the eastern province of Sri Lanka

Abstract

While tourism plays a positive role in the socio-cultural, economic, environmental and political development and represents a significant development opportunity for many countries and communities, it has negative impacts too. If it is not identified and rectified in its initial stage, tourism may lead to severe damage to the country’s socio-cultural and natural environment. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to identify the specific socio, economic and environmental impact of tourism in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. This study covered three major tourist areas of Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and Ampara in the Eastern Province. Perceptions on the impact of tourism on economy, socio-culture and environment by a sample of 2,500 respondents from diverse stakeholders were collected through interviewer- administered questionnaire. Secondary data were collected from reports, publications, and articles. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with residents living in the Eastern Province by an experienced team. Collected data were analyzed using various statistical tools with the help of statistical software. Perceptions of respondents revealed a positive economic impact of tourism. However, the study also found a negative impact on social and cultural terms in the Eastern Province. At the same time, results did not show any significant negative impact on the environment. Further, results revealed that, although tourism has provided employment opportunities and helped the economy of the province, the economic benefit deserved by local people is not delivered. The findings of this study will be helpful for policymakers and authorities for planning in the future. In general, the broader objective of this study is to promote the tourism industry as a major contributor to the country’s economy, to achieve balanced regional development, to decrease the regional disparity and to focus on the potential of the region, to maximize economic gain through sustainable development.