Deciphering the environmental challenges and advancements of tourism development in Palau

This chapter examines the environmental challenges of tourism development in Palau. It outlines the country's environmental resources, the history of tourism development and its market segments by nationality, and the reasons for Palau's shift from mass tourism to a high-end, low-volume approach. It then considers the environmental impacts of tourism, particularly on water supply, and discusses recent government strategies and sustainable directives to protect Palau's natural and marine environments. The chapter concludes by considering how Palau should move forward in the post-COVID-19 context.