The research interface between biosecurity and tourist behaviour

Abstract

There is growing acknowledgement of the links between the behaviour of tourists and concerns arising from a range of issues that fall under the rubric of 'biosecurity'. Despite recessions, volatile oil prices and terrorist incidents and threats, global tourist movements continue a long-term trend of steady increase. At the same time, the interpenetration of national economies has resulted in increased biosecurity strains of both economic and ecological significance. This paper develops an overview and framework that makes explicit the conceptual terrain created by the overlap, or potential overlap, of research on these two highly significant global phenomena. We highlight the various scales, dimensions and aspects of this interface and argue that there is considerable urgency over the need to develop and pursue a coherent research agenda in this area. Suggestions are made regarding initial possibilities for advancing such a research agenda.