“Buoyancy – bifo and afta” : a climate change vulnerability / resilience framework for tourism – the case study of Vanuatu dive tourism

Abstract

The Earth's climate is changing. This affects physical, biological and social systems around the globe. Although it is recognised that tourism is a sector heavily affected by climate change, very little research has been undertaken on how tourism destinations/systems can adapt to climate change. Dive tourism represents a significant player in Vanuatu's economy and the country's tourism sector is highly vulnerable to climate change. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of research on climate change adaptation for tourism in the Pacific, let alone in Vanuatu. In addressing the current research gaps, the overarching aim of this PhD thesis is to develop a conceptual climate change vulnerability/resilience (V/R) framework for tourism, using the dive tourism sub-sector in a specific area of Vanuatu as a case study.