An investigation into the impacts of reintroducing species to Scotland, with a focus on those which could affect the Scottish tourism industry.

Abstract

Aims & Objectives: The aim of this investigation is to explore the impacts that reintroducing species could have; focusing especially on those which could affect the Scottish tourism industry. Therefore, the objectives of this investigation are; to investigate the possible economic, ecological and social impacts that reintroducing species could have on Scotland, to ascertain the feeling of the general public and the organisations involved towards reintroducing species to Scotland and to discover whether alternate reintroduction options are more feasible. Methodology: This research will be qualitative in nature as it will be building theory on the topic of reintroductions. The data collection method chosen for this investigation is semi-structured interviews, with these interviews carried out with nine participants; five individuals with an interest in the reintroduction of species and four members from organisations which could either be affected by the reintroduction of species or are involved in conservation in the Scottish countryside. The findings were then transcribed, coded and analysed by the researcher. Results & Discussion: There are a number of impacts which can occur from the reintroduction of species, with the extent of these varying depending on the type of species reintroduced. In relation to impacts on the tourism industry, there are a number of positive impacts including; economic opportunities, strengthening Scotland's image of natural beauty and the dispersion of tourists around Scotland, helping to spread economic benefits around the country. On the other hand, negative impacts may also occur, including; restrictions on movement and the issue of fear preventing visitors from travelling to the reintroduced area. Conclusion: The findings from this investigation could be beneficial for organisations involved in the reintroduction of species in helping to understand the potential impacts this could have on the tourism industry of Scotland. This is of significant importance due to the importance of the tourism industry to Scotland's economy