If not planned properly, tourism can “significantly” impact the environment and country, according an agriculture leader in Vanuatu.

Speaking at the ACP Regional briefing, director of Vanuatu’s agriculture, livestock, fisheries and forestry, Jeffery Wilfred explained although tourism was “key” for small islands, it could also lead to the decay of the environment, particularly the coastal zones, Pacific Islands New Association reported.

He added that on the other hand, choosing a coastal region that’s prone to experience climate related changes and environmental degradation would also impact a tourist’s decision to travel into those regions.

“Some of our islands are heavily dependent on coastal and marine resources for food security and on tourism which can be easily impacted by climate change and natural disasters,” he said.

Mr Winfred noted that a resolution was necessary and proposed the Pacific consider global targets that are relevant to measuring global commitments to promote and support sustainable development.

“These targets could focus on key issues to assist  SIDS in overcoming their particular challenges such as extreme  isolation, exposure to the impacts of climate change and disasters and high dependency on fossil fuels,” he said.