Impacts of Climate Change on the Tourism Sector of a Small Island Developing State: A Case Study for the Bahamas

Tourism in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is vulnerable to climate change. Using the Bahamas as a case study, this study presents findings from a survey administered with property managers from the coastal accommodations sector to identify their adaptation strategies to tackle climate change. We also evaluate their adaptive capacity by developing SIDS-specific indicators based on a capitals approach. Findings indicate that efforts toward adaptation were limited to disaster preparedness for hurricanes, reflecting a short-term focus in the face of climate change uncertainties. In addition to the lack of finances and knowledge for incorporating adaptation measures, their capacity to adapt is diminished due to a lack of access to climate change information, skilled staff, and specific climate change planning reflecting limited human and institutional capitals. Recommendations are provided for strategies synergistic with the resilience focus of our paper such as ecosystem-based adaptation and green jobs. The study informs tourism resilience and adaptation planning in the Baha-mas which may apply to other SIDS.