The massive scale of the seasonal mobility of population is a comparatively recent phenomenon which imposes considerable stress on the environment and is particularly acute in the case of coastal regions and islands. The problems are more serious for the case of islands or archipelagos which have limited resources and possibilities of developing supporting infrastructures.

Most islands cannot provide all resources required to maintain a large seasonal tourist population and in many cases basic requirements such as water and energy, as well as agricultural produce, need to be imported.

The impact of large seasonal population increases in the community and the resulting socio-economic factors need to be carefully evaluated, as well as issues related to transportation and communication, all of which should be part of an overall strategy.

Different islands present a variety of diverse problems but much can be learned by sharing experiences in an appropriate form. This conference on Island Sustainability provides that opportunity.