In the vibrant landscape of Oaxaca, the Chacahua - Huatulco Corridor has embarked on a bold journey towards a sustainable future. The "Manual for the Application of Biodiversity Criteria in Tourism Activities" has emerged as the compass that guides those who dream of forging a world where tourism and nature coexist in perfect harmony.
Within the framework of the Kuxatur Project: Integration of Biodiversity Conservation Criteria in Mexican Tourism, two crucial workshops were held: June 19-20 in Puerto Escondido and June 21-22 in Huatulco. There, tourism service providers, both conventional and alternative, came together with a clear purpose: to strengthen their capacities and become passionate guardians of biodiversity. Each embarked on a journey towards transforming this region into a welcoming sanctuary for all forms of life.
Transforming Tourism in Oaxaca: A Sustainable Future
The achievements are truly inspiring and promise a bright horizon for tourism in this region:
- Practical Workshops: Four workshops were held at each venue, equipping participants with practical tools for integrating biodiversity criteria into tourism activities. These sessions provided the necessary resources to adopt sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in tourism services.
- Meeting and Dialogue Forum: These events provided a space for exchange between the community, public, private and academic sectors. This intersectoral collaboration was crucial for promoting sustainable tourism development and ensuring biodiversity conservation.
- Communicating the Value of Biodiversity: Guidance was provided on how to design tourism activities that foster a connection with local biodiversity and promote environmental awareness. In addition, tools were provided to develop effective sales strategies, transmitting the value of natural heritage to promote environmentally conscious and respectful actions.
- Improved Management and Dissemination of Tourism Services: Specialized knowledge was shared to improve the quality of tourism services committed to biodiversity conservation and to effectively communicate the region's ecological values to visitors.
- Promotion of Best Practices: Criteria for integrating biodiversity into tourism activities were disseminated, focusing on aspects such as priority species, planning, water, soil and energy use. These sustainable practices seek to ensure that tourism in the region is compatible with the conservation of natural resources.
These results are the fruit of a true collaboration between visionaries who seek to transform tourism in Oaxaca. Through practical workshops, spaces for dialogue and the dissemination of best practices, a systemic change is being generated in the region's tourism industry. The participants, who have become guardians of biodiversity, are leading the way towards responsible and sustainable tourism. Together, we transcend barriers and unite in a collective effort to build a brighter future for generations to come. We understand that only through collaboration and joining forces can we achieve lasting transformations at the local level.
In this charming corner of Mexico, systemic change is underway. With every step of tourism service providers and every smile of conscious travelers, the Chacahua - Huatulco Corridor becomes a beacon of hope and a model to follow. We are on the brink of a new era of tourism, where biodiversity is appreciated, protected and celebrated. Together, we can create a world where tourism and nature intertwine, leaving a legacy of wonders for generations to come.
This alliance of visionaries, which includes WWF, GEF, UNDP, Costa Oaxaca, Sustentur and The Monkey's Handis forging systemic change that transcends Oaxaca's borders. Her commitment and support are a beacon of hope for other tourism destinations seeking to embrace sustainability and biodiversity conservation. Their inspiring example demonstrates that tourism can be a transformative force, capable of preserving and protecting our planet's natural treasures.
We hope that these actions will inspire other regions to contribute to sustainable tourism around the world.
