The economics of shark diving tourism and its contribution to shark conservation in the Indian Ocean

This thesis uses economic market and non-market valuation methods to aid decision making about shark conservation strategies in Borneo and the Maldives. We find the economic impact of shark-diving tourism to be substantial and diverse at both study sites. Moreover, the implementation of a new shark fishing ban (Borneo), and the success or failure of long-term management of an existing shark fishing ban (Maldives) influence the economic benefits from shark-diving, tourists' trip demand, and tourists' welfare. We also provide the first empirical evidence for increased economic benefits from shark-diving tourism over time and identify mechanisms to finance shark fishing bans.