Sustainability, Environment and Tourism in Cape Coast: Searching for Synergies

Tourism has been an integral component of economic development strategies in developing nations since the 1960s. The industry is important in generating foreign exchange earnings, increase tax revenues, attract international investment and create new jobs. Sustainability of the environment and tourism was investigated using the tourists’ attraction sites in Cape Coast (Ghana). Questionnaire was administered purposively to tourists and tour operators in Cape Coast. Data were collected on hygienic practices of the community, basic knowledge on environmental hygiene, human behaviour, social and cultural factors. Observational study was done and Management interviewed. Most communities around attraction sites had poor disposal of household waste, inadequate domestic water supply and washroom facilities. The study revealed that although there is a little awareness on sustainability of tourism, its implementation and maintenance was not effective. To sustain tourism as a fast-growing industry, conservation, protecting and proper management of attraction sites are very important. It was recommended that more educational campaigns should be organised to create enough awareness of the synergy factors, the Ministry of Tourism should enforce policies governing environmental issues, and the government should adequately resource the Tourism Industry to carry out its mandate to help alleviate the unemployment problem and accelerate the overall development of the country.
Keywords: Sanitation; Sustainability; Environment; Tourism; Health