Economic Valuation of the Coastline for Tourism in Barbados

Abstract

The coastal environment in Barbados is the foundation of its tourism-based economy. With increasing emphasis on tourism for generating revenue, the importance of beaches cannot be overemphasized. This study describes methodo logical procedures that could be applied for valuating beaches for tourism. The results reveal that the value of beaches could be substantial. These values could be used, inter alia, for efficient beach management, for the possible implemen tation of a user fee, and in litigations for obtaining compen sation due to man-made disasters.