Balance

Protection of the natural environment is positive but so too is an environment where humans can thrive in stable conditions. For instance, over reliance on tourism creates a destabilising and detrimental effect on local communities. In a beautiful area there can be an expectation of visitors, but the expectations of some visitors can be unrealistic and and even harmful to the area. In my area we are currently experiencing a tourism explosion which is totally out of balance with the infrastructure. I believe existing national parks have similar issues which call into question the wisdom of such a designation.. Perhaps a greater emphasis on environmentally friendly food production and small scale industry and energy production would provide a better path to a harmonious blend of nature and culture.

Perhaps because on witnessing the destruction of a landscape and a way of life I see a careful and integrated approach to development as vital. No one set of investors or politicians should be able to dictate overarching ideas to be thrust upon an area. E.G. North Coast.