Sustainable Tourism on Exmoor

**Visit our research pages for the new State of Tourism Report 2010**

Every year Exmoor National Park welcomes over 2 million visitors, attracted by the wide ranging special qualities of natural beauty, wildlife cultural heritage and the varied recreational opportunities afforded to visitors.

It is estimated that tourism on Exmoor brings in over £80m to the economy and creates the equivalent of over 2000 full time jobs (approximately 20% of Exmoor’s entire population!).

It is clear that tourism has a major role in sustaining the local economy and communities of Exmoor. Indeed, whilst the first statutory purpose of the National Park is to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area, the second purpose is to promote opportunities for the public understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the area.

However tourism has an environmental and social impact. The landscape is fragile and issues such as erosion, congestion, litter, careless use of the countryside and pollution can lead to problems. This is why we all need to strive to make our use of the Park more sustainable; If not the very qualities that make Exmoor special today could be lost tomorrow.

In the past ‘Sustainable Tourism’ has been seen purely as an additional marketing tool by some. Today it is widely recognised as a strategic goal which aims to improve tourism for the benefit of all – both now and in the future. Whilst purely ‘Sustainable’ tourism is difficult to achieve all tourism activities have the potential to become more sustainable.

Use the links for simple ideas and further information on how you can help Keep Exmoor Special today and forever!

• Planning
• Affordable Housing
• Reports
• Sustainability
  • Sustainable Development Fund
  • Renewable Energy
  • Carbon Neutral Exmoor
  • Low Carbon Festival
  • Sustainable Construction
  • Sustainable Tourism
  • Simple Actions
  • Useful Information
  • Research
  • Exnoor Tourism Partnership
• Application Forms
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Information for farmers and land managers
• NEW! Partnership Fund