SCUBA Diver Environmental Orientation and Perceptions of Diving Impact Management on Coral Reefs: Evidence from Sri Lanka

Abstract

SCUBA diving has now become a regular feature of coral reef tourism and Sri Lanka has the potential to become a popular destination for SCUBA divers. SCUBA divers were interviewed at two main diving destinations on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka: Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna. Most respondents were ‘experienced’ divers. Enjoyment, viewing marine life in their natural environments and adventure were the main motives of divers at these destinations. In general, the perceptions of respondents on SCUBA diving as an eco-tourism activity were positive across all experience levels. The self-rating experience positively influenced divers’ responsible underwater behavior. As such, diving operators must be aware of the potential damage to coral due to loss of control/buoyancy underwater and intentional touching of coral reefs by less experienced/novice divers. Experienced divers with strong environmental consciousness supported conservation-oriented reef management actions. Conversely, experienced divers were resistant to management actions that directly or indirectly compromised their dive experience. Less-experienced divers did not favour management actions that restrict them from accessing healthy coral reefs. Respondents expressed a general concern regarding the negative environmental impacts associated with an increase in visitors to sensitive marine habitats.