United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Administration And
Resources Management
(3404)
United Nations
Environment
Programme
CARIBBEAN
CURRENTS
Volume 5, Number 2
April 1997
EPA/220/N-97-001&
UNEP
Welcome...
...to CARIBBEAN CURRENT8, Volume Five, Number Two. This
newsletter is edited by INFOTERRA/USA in its capacity as the
Regional Service Centre (RSC) for INFOTERRA National Focal Points
(NFPs) in the English and French-speaking Caribbean. Although the
CURRENTS is assembled at INFOTERRA/USA, the content belongs to
you, the readers. You are encouraged to send in any questions,
comments, problems, or interesting issues relevant to the Region for
inclusion in the CURRENTS. Please see the Guidelines for
Contributions on page 4 for more information.
Each issue will feature a Directory of NFPs in the Region so that
anyone with international environmental questions can contact their
nearest resource. Please feel free to contact one another as well as
your RSC for assistance or materials.
Please don't hesitate to share CARIBBEAN CURRENTS with your
friends and colleagues, and to make copies as needed. The Currents
should serve as an informational forum for anyone who lives, works,
or is involved in environmental issues in the English and French-
speaking Caribbean Region.
This issue's topic is eco-tourism. As travellers explore the natural attractions of the developing world,
they may contribute to "sustainable development," which means development that "meets the needs of the
present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs" (1987 Brundtland
Commission). Or, tourism can damage the natural ecology.
The next issue of CARIBBEAN CURRENTS will lode at children's health. Throughout the world,
children face significant threats from an array of environmental hazards. EPAhasrecently established a
new Office of Children's Health Protection, and is calling international attention to the issue by making it a
centerpiece at the upcoming meeting of Environment Ministers from G-7 countries.
if you have any comments on this topic, or would like to contribute a short article or have a resources
guide to share, please submit your contribution following the guidelines on page 4. Please feel free to
&x, write to, or call the RSC with any questions or comments you have. Share information you have and
we will include it in the next or a future issue of CURRENTS. Thank you for your assistance.
ECO-TOURISM
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ECO-TOURISM
Benefits, Drawbacks and the Need for a Comprehensive Plan
Eco-tourism or "nature tourism" can be defined as traveling to relatively undisturbed natural areas to
study, observe or admire and enjoy the scenery, wildlife and plants indigenous to the area. The activity
can range from a simple hike to elaborately arranged, pre-packaged tours available from private
companies specializing in this type of tourism. Eco-tourism has rapidly expanded from being a simple
hobby for a few interested people, to an activity of increasing popularity. Some countries, such as
Kenya, have a long history of attracting tourists to their protected areas, while others are just beginning
to explore the area of eco-tourism including its benefits and drawbacks.
Eco-tourism of course has both positive and negative aspects. On the positive side, expanding the eco-
tourism market can provide a powerful incentive to protect those areas that might otherwise not be
protected. Since eco-tourism can generate lots of revenue, it makes sense to protect and preserve
areas and encourage tourists to visit again and again. Eco-tourism can serve as a way to expand the
local economy, bringing money and jobs, as well as benefiting local conservation efforts. To
conservationists, eco-tourism provides an opportunity to increase funding for protected areas, even in
the face of government funding cutbacks. Yet another benefit of eco-tourism is the raising of
awareness among people of the importance of conserving and protecting natural areas for themselves,
and future generations.
On the negative side, eco-tourism can be an unstable source of revenue. Bad weather, political unrest
and die rise and fall of currency values can all cause a decrease in revenue. Because the business of
tourism is also seasonal in nature, this could result in unstable job markets and a decrease in revenue at
certain times of the year, negatively affecting businesses who rely heavily on eco-tourism dollars. Yet
another negative aspect is "too much success". Areas that become too crowded or overpopulated may
actually experience an environmental backslide. The very areas that are meant to be protected end up
in worse environmental shape than before. It is important to keep an eye on the ecological impact
tourism is having on a protected area to determine how much is too much. The native plant and animal
life needs to be monitored for adverse effects.
Because of these positive and negative aspects, the importance of a well-developed eco-tourism plan
cannot be overlooked. Therp is not 01^ "perfect" strategy. Each country must develop its own plan
aud decide wljat areas to open up tQ^qco-^ourism, and those where it should remain restricted. The
benefits,,ye cajpjljijly examined. Those who are involved in eco-tourism strategy
develppn$nt nged to pjan fi^r^x|^te(j ,9ccurrences that can have a negative impact on the industry.
The involvement of government officials, conservationists, park managers and travel industry
representatives will allow for the development of a cohesive strategy which takes into account the
opii^on%^nd ideas ^f $11 these sectors.' jUjeally, members of each of these groups should form an eco-
#iywjii,J^d,;iwhose mission is to develop apd implement die eco-tourism strategy . Examples of
countries ^o h*ve formed such a bp?rd jncludp Ecuador (Fundacion Ecuatoriana de Promocion
Turistica), Belize (Belize Eco-tourism Association) and St. Kitts and Nevis (St. Kitts and Nevis
Departmety of Tourism)
A piajQFyfijncZion of these boai^js, thc pro^iotion of eco-tourism. and the World Wide Web has
presente^.^Qft' opport^ty. ffir R^rng njillions of perspective travellers. A search of the Internet will
reveal numerous sites, including many mounted by tourism boards in Caribbean countries. Homepages
currently available incj^deD^^^OnI^(^ttp://(M|>liis.n^8ate.net/home.htm), Bahamasnet (http://
www^J>ahanv&n<$C9n)/bn/w.ecohome;html), the Costa Rica eco-tourism page (http://www.crica.com/
sgeei^ectour.^lj, and the StcKitfy**»d Nevis eco-tourism page (http://www.inteitoowledge.com/
stkitts-nevta/ftftiecoO,! .htm).
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The ever-growing number of sites placed on the Internet by tourism boards, and companies specializing
in eco-tourism packages provides clear evidence of the growing interest in this form of travel. Careful
planning, as well as promotion are necessary to reap the benefits of this industry, while safeguarding
the fragile eco-systems that draw the tourists.
•Sources for this article:
Boo, Elizabeth, Ecotourism- The Potentials and Pitfalls (2 volumes), World Wildlife Fund, 1990.
Lindberg, Kreg, Policies for Maximizing Nature Tourism's Ecological and Economic Benefits. World
INTERNET SITES ON ECO-TOURISM
Aftw of many sources oftlectronic information on eco-tourism.
Ecotourism Information Sources
http://kaos.erin.gov.au/other_servers/catesory/Ecotourism.html
This site is maintained by the Australian Government, Environmental Resources Information Network
(ERIN) and has links to many different sources of ecotourism information on the web. The ERIN
homepage also has information on Australia's National Ecotourism Program.
Eco Tourism International (ETI)
http://catalog.com/kev/eti/
A U.S. based consortium whose aim is to help government planners and business developers identify,
evaluate and implement successful ecotourism projects, and provide assistance in all phases of the
process. The site features overviews of the consortium's founders and provides address and e-mail
contact information.
Eco-Source
http://www.podi.com/ecoiource
This site provides links to other eco-related information^ the world wide web, information on
ecotourism and the marketplace, eco-tourism career# ecotburisin conferences and emits, fcnks to
other ecotourism information sources, and links to other types ofdiviron&ental information;
Eco-tourism listserv
Provides a forum for discussion on eco-tourism and industry issues To Subscribe. send s Message to
majordomo@newnorth.net with a line dial says subscribe explorer. More information al tins listserv
can be found at i
Greenmoney Oa-Uiw Gluide, E*otoiirt»nRtioiii*ii o»tb« W«T
^ http://www.gr«tnmoi^.com/gmt/Bcoto»r.htm
This site, maintained by the Greenmooey Journal (hforZ/gfo^ifotty,oom/indcx.httn)'tfon'^ lmksto
related Greenmoney Journal Articles, as well as articles f
Conservation InternaikMtW EeotouHsmf'Fate
http://www.conservstion.org/web/FlfcLDACT/C-C_PR06/Eiol.lrt1m
This page is maintained by Conservation International, a nbn-prbftt grwj# based-m Washington, D C.
and features links to several on-going ecotourism initiatives sponsored by CI to jtibtWote ecotourism and
provide technical assistance.
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fs
Coyifef*enc€4r' ow Eco--TourU*n/
September 22-23, 1997 - International Conference in Context of Central and Eastern Europe,
Ecotourism - Balancing Sustainability and Profitability, Paemu, Estonia. - The Estonian Ecotourism
Association (ESTECAS). Contact: Conference Committee, Estonian Ecotourism Association, P.O. Box
84, EE-3600 Paernu Estonia.
December 15-18, 1997 — World Ecotour 97 - World Congress & Exhibition on Ecotourism, Rio
De Janeiro, Brazil. This will be the largest world congress and exhibition on tourism and ecotourism to
take place in Latin America between 1997 and 1998. Contact: Mr. Rogerio Ruschel, e-mail
ruschel@amcham.com.br
Guidelines for Sediment Control Practices in the Insular Caribbean (CEP Technical Report #33).
j Guidelines for Integrated Planning and Management ofCoastal and Marine Areas in the Wider Caribbean Region.
The above publications may be ordered from UNEP CAR/RCU, 14-20 Port Royal Street, Kingston. Jamaica: Phone: (1-809) 922-9267 to
j9; Telex 3672 UNEPCARJA; Fax: (1-809) 922-9292
ALSO AVAILABLE FROM UNEP:
Environmental Good Practice in Hotels, published by UNEP and the International Hotel and Restaurant Association.. For more
information or to obtain copies, contact United Nations Environmental Programme, 39-43 Quai Andre Citroen, 7S739 Paris Cedex 15 -
France, Telephone 33 (1) 44 37 14 SO. FAX: 33 (1) 44 37 14 74, E-mail: unepie@unep.fr.
ISLAND RESOURCES FOUNDATION AND UNEP ANNOUNCE THESE PUBLICATIONS
Guidelines for Contributions to CARIBBEAN CURRENTS
Any organization or individual operating or involved in the English and French-speaking Caribbean Region is welcome to
Contribute to the newsletter. Contributions should be addressed to:
Carribean Currents Coordinator
INPOTHRRAAJSA
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Headquarters Library. 3404
401M Street. S.W.
-Washington, D.C. 20460.
STATES
Tek^j^je^j[^2)^^5917;fa,v(202)26P-3923; E-mail: libraiy-infoterraffljepamail.epa.gov
Please note (hat submissions should men the following criteria:
• They should be relevant to environmental issues
• They must be of interest to or directly involve the Region
• They must not endorse or recommend any product orspommercial service, explicitly or implicitly
• They must be brief-under 250 words: Bulletin Board requests should be under 100 words
should contact the coordinator to discuss your topic and any size or content restrictions beforehand. Be aware that once
vour article ¦« Final decisions on editing and inclusion of any contributions
comments, questions.
Tele^oije;. j^2)26fe5917: F«$ (*
se note (hat submissions should men tn<
• They should be relevant to environmentali
INggrERR^Aft
3SAPLINE FORCONTWByTIONSTO VoL 5, No. 3: June 10,1997
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Welcome to The Caribbean Currents
Bulletin Board
Each issue, we will publish questions or concerns of interest to Currents
readers. Anyone who has materials or information that they are seeking or
that they feel will be helpful should feel free to contribute. We will post
queries and offerings of general interest on the Bulletin Board. You may
respond by contacting the reader who has placed the item, or the RSC.
DOCUMENTS
AVAILABLE
INFOTERRA/US A has free copies
ofthe following publications available.
If you would like copies of any of
these documents, please let us know.
• EPA N litionul Publications Catalog
October 1996
• Technical Support Document
International Training Workshop,
Principlcsof Environmental
Enforcement: Tourism
(EPA300R95010)
• U.S. /Mexico Border XXI Program:
Summary of Domestic Meetings,
June 1996
Torequest copies of these
documents, just write to
INFOTERRA/USAusingthecontact
information on page 6.
0*
Information Needed on
Children* s Health
The next issue ofCaribbean Currents will
focus on the issue of children's, health and
protectingthem from environmental threats.
We would be interested in receiving any
information on projects or studieson this
topic currently taking place in the region.
Any regulatory or educational guides you
can provide would alsobegreatly
appreciated, fhctte materials willalsobe
kept on filefor the benefit of researchers
and visitors to INFOTERRA.
Please contact INFOTERRA/USAtising
theinfomiatiqnonp^ '
provide any assistance. ThaskVbufbr
yoursuppqft!
Send your
the Gnidolino® on p*g*4fot information on
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About the NFP Directory
This directory reflects changes and additions to the INFOTERRA Directory of National Focal Points
distributed by INFOTERRA yPA(\ dated January 1997. Please check this information to verify that it is
correct and up-to-date. If you have any changes or corrections, please notify the RSC as soon as possible.
We will be happy to relay the information to the PAC.
V
i
NFP DIRECTORY
Mrs. Candia Williams
Conservation Officer II
Ministry ofTourism. Culture, and Environment
Queen Elizabeth Highway
St. John's
ANTIGUA. WEST INDIES
Telephone: (809)462-4625 FAX: (809)462-2836
Mrs. Lynn Holowesko
The Bahamas Environment. Science & Technology
Commission
Office of the Prime Minister
P.O. Box CB10980
Nassau
THE BAHAMAS
Telephone: (809)3274691 FAX: (809) 327-4626
Mrs. Atheline Mayers
Permanent Secretary (Environment)
Ministry of Health and the Environment
Sir. Frank Walcott Building. Culloden Road
St. Michael. BARBADOS
Telephone: (246)431-7680 FAX: (246)437-8859
E-mail: envdivntocaribsurf.com
Jaime Jefleiy Villanueva
Fisheries Department. Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries
Princess Margaret Drive. P.O. Box 148
Belize City
BELIZE. CENTRAL AMERICA
Telephone: 501-2-44552 FAX: 501-2-32983
Mr. Ashton Lugay
Forestry and Wildlife Div ision
Ministry of Agriculture. Botanical Gardens
Roseau
DOMINICA. WEST INDIES
Telephone: (809)448-240l.e.\t,417 FAX: (809)448-7999
Mr.BhoonathBirba!
Institute of Applied Science & Technology
Research Assistant. Information Unit
P.O.Box 101050. University Campus. Turkeyen
Greater Georgetown
GUYANA
Telephone: {392-22)4213/4215/4218 FAX; 592-22-4229
M. Dalberg Claude
Ministere dc 1'Agriculture ct des Ressources
Naturelles et du Dcveloppcmcnt Rural
P.O.Box 1441
Port-au-Prinee
HAITI
Telephone: 509-1-21867 FAX: 509-1-23599
Ms. YolandaN. Mittoo
Natural Resources Conservation Authority
53 1/2 Molynes Road
P.O. Box 305
Kingston 10
JAMAICA. WEST INDIES
Telephone: (809) 923-5155/5125 FAX: (809) 923-5070
E-mail: nrcafr/:igc.apc.org
Mr. Leonard Huggins
Environmental and Development Officer. Planning
Unit
Charlestown. Nevis
ST. K.ITTS AND NEVIS
Telephone: (809)469-5521 FAX: (809)469-5485
Mrs. Vancsta Moses-Felix
Government Documcntalist
Ministry ofPlanning. Development and Environment
National Documentation Center
P.O. Box 709
Castries
ST. LUCIA. WEST INDIES
Telephone: (809)452-2611 FAX: (809)452-2506
E-mail: LCDOOW.ISIS.ORG.LC
Regional Service Centre (RSC):
Emma J. McNamara
1NFOTERR A/USA
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Headquarters Library. 3404
401M Street. S.W."
Washington. D. C. 20460
UNITED STATES
Telephone: (202)260-5917 FAX: (202)260-3923
E-mail: libran-infotcrrar/icpamail.cpa.gov
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