The impact of coral reefs conservation on SCUBA diving tourism sustainability

Abstract EN

SCUBA Diving Tourism (SDT) is a growing form of tourism reflecting positively on the economy of coastal communities.

However, any negative impacts associated with SDT need to be prevented to safeguard the critical ecosystem services provided by coral reefs.

This study provides insights into the problems affecting the sustainability of the SDT industry.

So, the present study examines the effect of coral reefs conservation on SDT sustainability in Red Sea, Egypt.

The study data is collected using questionnaires completed by 105 diving center's managers working in Red Sea governorate.

The results of this study indicate that coral reefs conservation is positively related to SDT sustainability (p < 0.05).

Moreover, a significant predictive relationship (p < 0.05) is found between coral reefs conservation and SDT sustainability, with variability of 66.6% .

These findings highlight the importance of natural resources conservation, and emphasize the need to effective management tools to guarantee the sustainability of SDT.

Finally, this study discusses managerial implications, introduces recommendations to enhance sustainability include actions ranging from engagement in planning and management to education and social responsibility, and presents suggestions for future research.