A groundbreaking study from Trinity College Dublin has found that Ireland’s Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) are thriving due to well-managed tourism, challenging the traditional belief that tourism and conservation are incompatible.

The research, led by Dr Andrew Torsney and Professor Yvonne Buckley from Trinity’s School of Natural Sciences, highlights the success of conservation grazing in enhancing biodiversity within one of Ireland’s protected dune systems. Conducted at Derrynane House in County Kerry, the study demonstrates how targeted grazing by cattle—overseen by the Office of Public Works (OPW)—has helped maintain and even improve plant diversity in the area.

While tourism is often perceived as a threat to fragile ecosystems, this research suggests otherwise. The OPW’s conservation grazing strategy has enabled Derrynane’s dune habitats to flourish despite high visitor numbers. By allowing cows to graze in short, controlled periods, plant diversity has been sustained, with some species even increasing in numbers.

“Tourist destinations such as those along the Wild Atlantic Way rely on showcasing stunning natural landscapes,” said Dr Torsney. “Many believe that tourism negatively impacts these habitats, but our research challenges that assumption. At Derrynane, the OPW’s approach to balancing public access with habitat management has led to a richer, more diverse environment.”

The study found that biodiversity increased modestly in grazed habitats, while unmanaged areas saw a 20% decline in biodiversity after four years. Notably, species such as Fairy Flax (Linum catharticum), Pyramidal Orchid (Anacamptis pyramidalis), and Lady’s Bedstraw (Galium verum) have flourished under conservation grazing. The striking Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) was also spotted in the managed sites.

Lorcan Scott, Biodiversity Officer at the OPW, welcomed the findings. “We are greatly heartened by this research, which confirms that conservation grazing is benefiting our dune habitats. Derrynane SAC is an important part of Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, and attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year. Our dedicated staff work hard to maintain a balance between tourism and conservation, and we look forward to applying these insights elsewhere.”

Above: The Bee Orchid (Ophrys apifera) is another species spotted in the grazed sites.

The research also underscores the importance of adaptable habitat classification methods. Accurate ecological assessments will help tourism managers implement conservation strategies that support biodiversity while continuing to welcome visitors.

This study offers a promising blueprint for conservationists, policymakers, and land managers looking to harmonise environmental protection with public engagement. By demonstrating that tourism and biodiversity can coexist, it paves the way for sustainable stewardship of Ireland’s natural heritage.

The full research article is available in the journal Global Ecology and Conservation.