Direct Economic Inputs from Internationally Funded Science Projects to the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas

Abstract

International expenditures for scientific research are important for small island developing nations, especially for those local communities that directly support research activities.We used the Abaco Islands, The Bahamas, as a case study to quantify the direct monetary inputs to a local economy via internationally-funded scientific research. We found that over two years the external monetary influx was $995,310, via 24 research teams, that was spent across diverse business sectors on Abaco. A direct survey approach ensured this was a conservative estimate, leaving out numerous indirect economic impacts, thereby suggesting the actual monetary infusion was significantly higher. The highest expenditures were for services (e.g., local salaries and boat guides), lodging, food/drink, and major equipment (e.g., vehicles). In addition to the researchbased contributions that give rise to conservation and management decision-making, scientific activity brings benefits through the injection of money into local island economies. This relationship warrants study at larger regional scales, including across The Bahamas archipelago.