In the coastal town of Plettenberg Bay in the Western Cape, tourism peaks during the summer holiday season when both domestic and international visitors flock to the area. During this period, many locals secure temporary jobs in hotels and restaurants. Tourism-related activities also provide temporary employment opportunities, with locals working as boat tour operators and hiking guides, for example. However, once the tourist season ends, these workers often face job losses or significantly reduced working hours. Some are forced to return to informal housing or shared accommodation because of the loss of income, and few receive employment benefits. 

This scenario illustrates how the seasonal nature of tourism can lead to job insecurity, housing instability and poor working conditions. 

Explain how environmental impact assessments (EIAs) support sustainable tourism development.

The demand for sustainable tourism is declining because tourists prefer traditional travel experiences.