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Belize River Front Real Estate and Investment Properties
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Go straight to the pool homes at Banana Bank Heights
Ecotourism
Belize is one of the smallest Central American states but is nonetheless remarkably
diverse geologically, topographically and in climate. This is
reflected in its vegetation types, with extensive forests, wetlands,
savannas and coastal systems. The new "catch word" for ecology-minded tourists is "ecotourism".
Ecotourism is currently the largest industry Belize.
"Ecotourism," "sustainable tourism" and "responsible tourism" are terms used to describe tourism that
focuses on appreciation and preservation of a country's flora,
fauna, ecosystems and culture. Belize stands at the forefront
of the ecotourism movement....Complete ethical tourism guidelines.
Belize has established a National Protected Areas Conservation Trust Fund called PACT. The
PACT will provide funds for supporting conservation and promoting
environmentally sound management of Belize's natural and cultural
resources to foster sustainable development. PACT is a bold and
innovative strategy for non-traditional revenue generation.
The long-term goal of PACT is to support and facilitate activities which ensure the
sustainable use of Belize's natural and cultural resources. The exceptional
nature of the natural environment of Belize is even more pronounced
offshore, where the barrier reef and its associated complex of
marine ecosystems is the second largest in the world and the largest
in the western hemisphere.
Earth Day 1993 saw the birth of the Belize Ecotourism
Association (BETA).... The vision is for BETA to be an
organization for anyone concerned about protecting the beautiful
jewel of Belize from the dangers of unharnessed development. With the formation of the Belize Ecotourism Association, the process of developing
sustainability has been accelerated. Ecotourism is a
commitment to ecological and cultural responsibility.
The concept of responsible tourism - exploring nature in a manner that will protect flora,
fauna or culture - has been promoted in Belize through conservation groups and
the government. With the formation of the Belize Ecotourism Association, the
process of developing sustainability has been accelerated. Ecotourism is a
commitment to ecological and cultural responsibility.
The Belize Audubon Society is a non-profit,
non-governmental, membership organization dedicated to the promotion
of the sustainable use and preservation of our natural resources in
order to maintain a balance between people and the environment.
Belize is committed to ecotourism--versus tourism. The
difference? - Ecotourism is sustainable, it is culturally and
environmentally sensitive, and it keeps the money in the local
communities. From your point-of-view, that means fewer other travellers
vying for space, more intense and more real visits with local people, and
knowing that your dollars actually benefit Belizeans, not big
corporations. From our point-of-view, ecotourism means sharing our world
with a few of you in a meaningful way, in order to preserve our heritage
in these changing times.www.belizeecotours.org
Most Belizeans are committed to conserving natural areas and cultural
heritage, while encouraging development aimed at sustainability so the country
can prosper economically. New reserves and conservation laws promote this type
of development. Many tourism establishment are now involved in conservation of
natural resources and sustainable development.
Ecotourism thrives on education. Responsible travelers learn about the
country and people before the vacation begins. While visiting, interaction with
Belizeans is an integral part of this learning process. Listening and learning
demonstrates respect for the culture and people. Ecotourism implies responsible
tourism from all of us. Responsible means leaving no footprints so others might
follow and enjoy the same path.
Find out more about flora, our national parks, wildlife and scuba diving.
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