An uncertain destination. Expansion of the tourism, damage and environmental risks on the coast of Oaxaca

Abstract

Tourism is an important sector of Mexico’s economy and for several decades’ governments have promoted its expansion as a development strategy. This happens particularly in coastal areas characterized by high marginality and socio environmental fragility. Taking as reference the southern coast of Oaxaca, this work describes the complex process of social production of a tourist destination –Zipolite– and analyzes the dynamic pressures that, derived from the tourist expansion, produce socio-environmental fragility and risk. Taking the risk construction as its axis, it provides an overview of public observations and concerns about environmental and climatic dynamics in order to identify the present damages, to define obstacles and to imagine alternatives for socially and environmentally inclusive and fair development.