Mainstreaming biodiversity conservation in the tourism sector of the protected areas and strategic ecosystems of San Andres, Old Providence and Santa Catalina islands

The objective of the project is to promote biodiversity conservation mainstreaming in the tourism sector of the Protected Areas and strategic ecosystems of San Andres, Old Providence and Santa Catalina islands through the design and implementation of participatory governance models, effective policies and biodiversity friendly tourism products. The project will take place in the Seaflower Biosphere Reserve which was declared a reserve in 2000 by UNESCO, due to its cultural and environmental value.

The strengthening of capacities and the inter-institutional articulation with the small-scale private sector, as well as the first-hand knowledge of the impacts produced by tourism on biodiversity, will allow informed decision-making and the participatory implementation of measures for the effective management of ecosystems and their respective conservation. Likewise, the support and strengthening of biodiversity friendly and culturally-rich local tourism initiatives-based on the principles established by the national government regarding green businesses-will promote a change in the local tourism sector towards one that not only has an impact on conservation but also is an agent of change that can be used in favor of biodiversity.