Environmental Sustainability in Pigeon Island National Park: Stakeholder Perspectives from Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study explores stakeholder perspectives on environmental sustainability within Pigeon Island National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most ecologically significant marine protected areas. Although tourism has become an important source of local income, unchecked visitor activities and weak institutional governance have caused notable ecological degradation. Previous research has mainly addressed the park’s ecological or tourism-related issues, leaving a clear gap in understanding stakeholder involvement in achieving sustainability. Therefore, the study aims to examine how key stakeholders perceive and contribute to environmental sustainability and to identify strategies to strengthen sustainable management in Pigeon Island National Park. A qualitative research design was employed under an interpretivist paradigm using a case study approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 20 purposively selected participants, including park officials, local residents, tourism service providers, and tourists. Qualitative content analysis was used to identify patterns and themes related to tourism impacts, management gaps, and stakeholder collaboration. The findings reveal that while tourism generates substantial economic benefits, it also leads to coral reef degradation, pollution, and overcrowding. Weak enforcement of regulations and limited stakeholder participation further constrain conservation efforts. The study recommends participatory governance, environmental education, improved infrastructure, and stricter regulation to enhance the park’s ecological resilience. The research contributes to sustainable tourism literature by emphasising the importance of multi stakeholder engagement and local knowledge in conserving fragile marine environments.