In the majority of coastal regions of the world basic data on tourism and its associated impacts is extremely poor. For example, within the context of the South Pacific, an area which is highly dependent on marine and coastal tourism for its economic well being , there has been no systematic study of the environmental impacts of tourism over the region as a whole. Data and information are highly fragmented. Base line data, i.e. information regarding the condition of the natural environment prior to tourism development, is invariably lacking Even in Australia, one of the most economically developed nations of the region, information about the environmental impacts of tourism is relatively poor and, where it does exist, it tends to be available for areas, such as national parks or reserves, which are under government control, rather than for private lands . In addition, development specific reports, such as environmental impact statements on resort or tourism developments, required by law in many Western countries, are often not required in the countries of the South Pacific because environmental planning legislation is still being developed or is not adequately implemented.