Bhutan and Costa Rica: Rural adventure tourism and community sustainable development

Summary

This video highlights the transformation of El Tigre, a rural community in Costa Rica, into a model of sustainable development. With a focus on gender equity, environmental conservation, and eco-tourism, the community is thriving through initiatives like reforestation, organic farming, and new businesses such as butterfly gardens and serpentariums. Local efforts are supported by a collaboration between Costa Rica, Bhutan, and other countries, aiming to create jobs and build a sustainable economy. The project also emphasizes education and environmental awareness, shaping a future where tourism and conservation go hand in hand to benefit both people and the environment.

Takeaways

• 😀 El Tigre, Costa Rica is becoming a model of sustainable development through a project focused on gender equity, rural farming, and community-driven tourism.
• 😀 The project is funded through a collaboration between Costa Rica and Bhutan, with the goal of creating sustainable economic growth in the village.
• 😀 Local entrepreneurs in El Tigre are diversifying their income sources through eco-tourism businesses like internet cafes, butterfly gardens, and serpentariums.
• 😀 A key initiative is reforestation, where land that was previously cleared for pasture has been bought and restored to prevent deforestation.
• 😀 Sustainable farming projects are also being implemented, including organic farming and tilapia farming, to reduce pesticide use and improve local food production.
• 😀 The local school in El Tigre has improved sanitary conditions, gained a playground, and now offers computer courses, contributing to the community's education and development.
• 😀 The community is involved in environmental education, promoting sustainability and conservation through various local projects and eco-tourism efforts.
• 😀 El Tigre has earned recognition in the Blue Flag program, an award given to environmentally-conscious communities that promote clean water and sustainable practices.
• 😀 The South-South Cooperation project enables Costa Rica and Bhutan to exchange knowledge on sustainable tourism, with Costa Rican guides sharing expertise in rafting and kayaking.
• 😀 El Tigre's future vision involves further infrastructure development, improved waste management, and creating more opportunities for sustainable tourism and local businesses.
• 😀 The overarching goal of the project is to shift the community towards more sustainable livelihoods and create a model for rural communities worldwide to follow.

Q & A

What is the focus of the community development project in El Tigre, Costa Rica?

The project focuses on sustainable development, gender equity, and rural farming. It aims to promote community development while preserving the environment and creating economic opportunities for local residents.

What is the significance of the partnership between Bhutan and Costa Rica in this project?

The partnership allows for the sharing of knowledge and resources between the two countries, with Bhutan benefiting from Costa Rica's expertise in sustainable tourism and Costa Rica learning from Bhutan's community-based tourism practices.

How does the Rios Tropicales project contribute to sustainable tourism?

Rios Tropicales focuses on responsible tourism that benefits the local community. It promotes sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly activities like rafting, while also involving the community in conservation efforts and offering economic opportunities.

What role does local entrepreneurship play in the community development of El Tigre?

Local entrepreneurship is vital for economic sustainability. The project helps residents, like those running an internet cafe or the butterfly garden, become 'migrantpreneurs,' offering new services and income-generating activities while promoting community growth.

What environmental conservation initiatives are part of the project?

The project includes reforestation efforts, the establishment of a butterfly garden, and the development of organic farming techniques, such as hydroponic gardening and tilapia farming, to reduce the use of pesticides and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

How does the project improve educational opportunities for the children of El Tigre?

The project has enhanced educational facilities, such as improved sanitation, a playground, and better access to the internet, providing children with a better learning environment and teaching them the values of environmental sustainability.

How is the butterfly garden contributing to the community's development?

The butterfly garden, managed by Mario Choy and his family, serves as both an educational attraction for tourists and a source of income through the sale of butterfly pupae. It is a prime example of how sustainable tourism can directly benefit the community.

What specific farming projects are part of the sustainable development plan?

The project includes a tilapia farming initiative and a hydroponic garden, which focuses on organic, pesticide-free farming of crops like cilantro. These projects aim to provide locals with sustainable alternatives to traditional, environmentally harmful farming practices.

How does the project address the issue of deforestation in the region?

The project addresses deforestation by purchasing and reforesting land that was initially being cleared for pasture. This helps preserve the natural environment and create a more sustainable future for the community.

What are the benefits of the South-South Cooperation project?

The South-South Cooperation project fosters cross-cultural learning and exchange. Costa Rica shares its expertise in sustainable tourism with Bhutan, while Bhutan's experiences with community tourism are beneficial for Costa Rica's rural communities, creating a reciprocal learning environment.