Access to marine parks: A comparative study in willingness to pay

Marine parks worldwide are under assault from illegal fishing, pollution and a burgeoning tourism industry. However, their principal mission of environmental protection and conservation is too often hampered by lack of funds. In recent years a number of studies have been done on the willingness of users to pay entrance fees to fund marine park management particularly those where coral reefs occur. In this analysis, we examine 18 such reports from which we conclude that there is overwhelming public approval to pay for entry to marine parks, with all studies indicating a general acceptance for the introduction of fees or an increase in those where charges already exist. Factors that positively influence this include visitors income, level of education, environmental awareness, residency and desire to provide a legacy to future generations. However, there are also aspects that deter including trust in the fee collection agency and openness in how the money is spent. This analysis endeavours to highlight those aspects that positively influence users of marine parks to contribute willingly to their management and help close the funding gap that confronts so many.