Insight: Belize – a Model for Ecotourism?
Belize offers some of the most pristine habitats in Central America. The question is how to exploit such a bountiful legacy without ruining it in the process.
Belize’s barrier reef, atolls, rivers, mountains, and tropical forest, along with its imposing Maya ruins and vibrant contemporary culture, make it ideal for the development of eco-tourism. This small Central American state of only 344,000 people has a low population density that has allowed a combination of state and private reserves to protect more than 40 percent of Belize’s territory.
Tourism without Tears
In the mid-1980s, the government recognized that small-scale, low-impact tourism was the way to provide stable economic growth while still safeguarding the environment. Rather than follow the mass-tourism path of Cancún 250 miles (400km) to the north, Belize decided to follow one that would allow as many Belizeans as possible to participate in the tourism industry as stakeholders.
The development of a small number of upscale lodges in the spectacular interior of Belize has provided a model of sustainable tourism that has both set standards and inspired many Belizeans to develop a network of accommodation and services to support the burgeoning industry.
Tourism is now Belize’s number one foreign revenue earner, and over 25 percent of all jobs in the country are within or related to the industry. Still, stakeholders must always balance the economic benefits of mass tourism with its potential damage to the environment and sites of cultural value.
Kick back in many people’s idea of paradise, thanks to Belizeans being committed to conserving their country’s stunning natural areas.
Corrie Wingate
Belize Audubon Society