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THE INTERNATIONAL ECOTOURISM SOCIETY PRESENTS…
Celebrating 25 Years of Ecotourism
ESTC15
ECOTOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM CONFERENCE
+IDEAS + OPPORTUNITIES + SOLUTIONS
www.ecotourismconference.org
ESTC15 Ecuador
WELCOME TO THE ESTC15
This year’s theme is “The Future We Want: Effecting
Positive Change through Ecotourism,” which coalesces with
the United Nation’s goals for future sustainable development.
QUITO, ECUADOR
APRIL 27-30, 2015
In partnership with…
+IDEAS + OPPORTUNITIES + SOLUTIONS
www.ecotourismconference.org
ESTC15 Ecuador
Join The Conversation!
Share your thoughts and post ideas, updates and photos from the
ESTC on Facebook ESTC_Tourism, twitter ESTC_Tourism, Linkedin
(ESTC GROUP), and Flickr (Groups/ESTC), and connect with fellow
attendees and thousands of followers from around the world.
ESTC STEERING COMMITTEE
Dr. Kelly Bricker, Professor, University of Utah, Conference Co-Chair
Jon Bruno, Conference Co-Chair
Juan Carlos Garcia P., Director of Conservation WWF Ecuador
Dr. D’Arcy Dornan, Communications
Dr. Deb Kerstetter, Penn State University
Dr. David Lansdale
Marcelo Merlo, Conference Logistics
Monica Elizabeth Burbano Montalvo, Ecotourism Consultant
Jorge Moller Rivas, Senior Consultant, Nature Lover
Natalia Naranjo, Tourism and Development Consultant
ESTC15 Ecuador
ESTC15 Volunteers (Voluntários):
On-Site Volunteers: Paula Arantes | Reverson DIas | Rosimery de
Fatima | Adriano França | Devon Peterson | Paloma Pinhiero | Daiani
Scapini | Izabella Schwind | Demian Takahashi
A VERY SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THE MINISTERIO DE TURISMO TEAM!
Sandra Naranjo, Minister of
Tourism
Gabriel Ludeña, Director of
Promotion
David Parra, Viceminister of
Tourism
Jaime Chávez, Director of Digital
Media
Dominic Hamilton, Viceminister of
Promotion
Marianella Nuques, Director of
Brand
Christian Mera, Undersecretary of
Touristic Development.
Lorena Gavilanes, Director of
Information
María de los Ángeles González,
Undersecretary of Touristic
Promotion
Lizette Ponce, Advisor of the
Undersecretary of Touristic
Development
Félix Burgos, Director of Products
and Innovation
Pamela Valverde, Analyst of
Products and Innovation
Evelyn García, Analyst of Products
and Innovation
Stay CONNECTED
> Become a Member of TIES - 7
> TIES EXCHANGE: Online - 6
> Networking Lounge - 6
Experience ECUADOR
> Ecuador Night - 8
> Field Sessions - 11
> Pre & Post Tours - 10
Get INSPIRED
> Keynote Speakers - 14
> Panels - 12
> Educational Tracks - 17-18
> Poster Sessions - 9
Celebrate COMMUNITY
> All You Need Is Ecuador - 40
> Celebration of Cultures - 9
> ecoDestinations Auction - 19-20
ESTC15 Ecuador
SPONSORS AND PARTNERS
Host Destination Sponsors
ESTC15 Key Partners
ESTC15 Supporters
Other ESTC15 Exhibitors
Refúgio Ecológico Caiman
ESTC15 Sponsors and Partners
ESTC15 Media Partners
ESTC15 Ecuador
ESTC15 EXHIBIT HALL
ESTC15 Ecuador
NETWORKING LOUNGE
Located in the Exhibit Tent
Hall, this is an opportunity to
maximize your conference
experience by utilizing the
Networking Lounge as a social
gathering place and meeting
space to connect to other
participants! The Networking
Lounge and Exhibit Hall is
available to all registered
guests throughout the
conference days.
BECOME A MEMBER OF TIES
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF ECOTOURISM!
The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) is the
world’s largest ecotourism and sustainable tourism
network dedicated to promoting the principles of
ecotourism. Founded in 1990, TIES has been on
the forefront of the development of ecotourism,
providing guidelines and standards, training,
technical assistance, and educational resources.
TIES’ global network of ecotourism professionals
and travelers is leading the efforts to make tourism
a viable tool for conservation, protection of biocultural diversity, and sustainable community
development.
For more information about TIES membership
opportunities, please:
http://www.ecotourism.org/membership.
Through membership services, industry outreach
and educational programs, TIES is committed
to helping organizations, communities and
individuals promote and practice the principles
of ecotourism. TIES currently has members in
more than 120 countries, representing various
professional fields and industry segments including:
academics, consultants, conservation professionals
and organizations, governments, architects, tour
operators, lodge owners and managers, general
development experts, and Eco tourists.
Would you like to sign up as a member at the
ESTC15? You can join TIES as a Professional Member
or and Organizational Member at the special
reduced membership rate (25% discount), available
for onsite membership registration only. Please visit
the registration desk for more information.
ESTC15 Ecuador
ESTC15 Ecuador
CONFERENCE OVERVIEW
Sunday April 26
Tuesday April 28
Registration/Information Desk: 08:00 - 17:00
Focus of the Day: Biodiversity Conservation
Pre-Conference Workshops
Dress:
Each year the ESTC has been enhanced by additional education
through trainings. This year, we are pleased to announce our
ESTC15 pre-conference workshops. For more information
regarding each of the workshops and to register, please click on
the individual links below.
Registration/Information Desk: 09:00 - All Day!
09:00 - 13:00
WWF Conservation Travel Forum
(Lunch not included)
Breakout
Room 1
09:00 - 17:00
GSTC Latin America Regional
Meeting (Lunch included)
Breakout
Room 3
Monday April 27
Exhibit Hall, Handicraft Booths, ESTC
Exchange Networking Lounge
Exhibit Hall,
Palacio
09:00 - 17:00 Touristic Products Activation
Palacio
09:00 - 10:00 Morning Refreshment Break
Exhibit Hall
10:00 - 11:00 Network and Organizational Meetings
Exhibit Hall, Handicraft Booths, ESTC
Exchange Networking Lounge
Exhibit Hall,
Palacio
08:00 - 09:00
Morning Refreshment Break
Exhibit Hall
09:00 - 17:00
Touristic Products Activation
Palacio
09:00 - 10:00
Plenary Speaker: Dr. Ralf Buckley,
Ecotourism’s contributions to conservation: Mechanisms, outcomes,
projections
Palacio
10:00 - 10:15
Break-Transition to
Breakout Sessions
Session 1
Latin America and Sustainable
Tourism
Breakout
Room 1
Session 2
Thriving Communities
Breakout
Room 2
Session 3
Conserving Biodiversity
Breakout
Room 3
Session 4
Sustainable Destinations
Breakout
Room 4
Session 5
Sustainable Development
Strategies
Breakout
Room 5
Session 6
Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism
Marketing
Business casual
Registration/Information Desk: 08:00 - All Day!
08:00 - 17:00
08:00 - 17:00
Educational Session 1 Begins 10:15 - 11:45
Focus of the Day: Sustainable Development
Dress:
Dress as an ecotourist!
Breakout
Room 1
11:00 - 11:30 Break
11:45 - 12:00
Break-Transition to Lunch
Palacio
11:30 - 12:30 Welcome and Plenary Session
Palacio
12:00 - 12:20
GLP Film Series on Tourism and
Biodiversity Conservation, presented
by Robert Holmes
Palacio
Lunch, with GLP Film Series on
12:30 - 13:30 Sustainable Development in Tourism,
presented by Rob Holmes
Palacio
12:20 - 13:20
Lunch, sponsored by the Ministry of
Environment, Ecuador
Palacio
13:20 - 15:00
Keynote: Jeff Parrish, WWF, Making
wildlife worth more alive than dead
Palacio
14:30 - 15:30
Meet the Media Session
Breakout
Room 4
14:30 - 15:30
Tour Operator Exchange
Breakout
Room 5
14:30 - 15:30
Case Studies, Projects, and Research
Learning and Enrichment Poster
Session
Exhibit Hall
15:00 - 16:00
Afternoon Refreshment Break
Exhibit Hall
13:30 - 14:30
Keynote: Sandra Naranjo,
Minister of Tourism, Ecuador
Sustainable Development Panel:
14:30 - 16:00
Jorge Perez, Ronald Sanabria
Welcome to Ecuador Celebration!
16:00 - 18:00 Guest Speaker: Luigi Cabrini,
UNWTO
Palacio
Palacio
Dome Tent,
Ichimbia
ESTC15 Ecuador
CONFERENCE OVERVIEW
FINAL DAY
Tuesday April 28
Thursday April 30
Focus of the Day: Thriving Communities
Educational Session II Begins 16:00 - 17:30
Session 1
Ecotourism & Sustainable Tourism
Marketing
Session 2
Thriving Communities
Breakout
Room 1
Session 3
Conserving Biodiversity
Breakout
Room 2
Session 4
Ecotourism and Sustainable
Tourism Education
Breakout
Room 3
Empowerment through Ecotourism
Breakout
Room 4
Session 5
Session 6
Sustainable Destinations
Free night to explore Quito!
Palacio
Breakout
Room 5
Quito
Wednesday April 29
Field Session Day!
Dress:
Casual dress for field sessions
09:00 - 16:00
09:00 - 17:00
Times Vary
Exhibit Hall, Handicraft Booths, ESTC
Exchange Networking Lounge
Touristic Products Activation
Field Sessions
Exhibit Hall
Palacio
Check for PickUp Location
and Time of
Departure
Touristic Products Activation
Every day around the Palacio, from 9:00
to 17:00!
• Sensorial activation - Chocolate
exhibition/Cacao Route
• Sensorial activation - Get to know
the cloud forest, take a picture
while biking in the Andes
• Cultural display - Quito and its old
town
• Birdwatching in Ecuador - Forum
Registration/Information Desk: 08:00 - All Day!
Dress:
Dress as park of your culture!
08:00 - 17:00
Exhibit Hall, Handicraft Booths,
ESTC Exchange Networking Lounge
Exhibit Hall
08:00 - 09:00
Morning Refreshment Break
Exhibit Hall
09:00 - 17:00
Touristic Products Activation
Palacio
09:00 - 09:30
Welcome Back! Plenary Session
Palacio
Educational Session III Begins 09:30 - 11:00
Session 1
Thriving Communities
Breakout
Room 1
Session 2
Biodiversity Conservation
and Communities
Breakout
Room 2
Session 3
Sustainable Destinations
and Community Empowerment
Breakout
Room 3
Session 4
Sustaining Ecuador!
Breakout
Room 4
Session 5
Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism
Development Strategies
Breakout
Room 5
Session 6
Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism
Guidelines and Certification
Breakout
Room 6
11:00 - 12:00 Break and Networking
11:00 - 12:00
Exhibit Hall
Student Professional
Development Session
Breakout
Tent 4
12:00 - 14:30 Networking Lunch
Palacio
GLP Films of the Day12:00 - 12:20 Community-based Tourism,
presented by Robert Holmes
Palacio
13:00 - 14:30
Keynote: Antoine George,
Peru
Palacio
14:30 - 14:45 Break-Transition to Yaku Water Museum
14:45 - 16:15
Community and Indigenous Tourism
Panel
Celebration of Cultures and TIES 25th
Anniversary-Ecuador’s Community18:00 - 02:00
Based Tourism Celebration
(Wow!)
Closing Ceremony sponsored by
Quito Turismo, Ecuador!
ESTC15 Ecuador
Yaku Water
Museum
Yaku Water
Museum
FIELD SESSIONS
FULL DAY: QUITO - N.P. CAYAMBE COCA - PAPALLACTA – QUITO
Operator: Amazanga
Description: The National Park Cayambe
- Coca, is a nature reserve of water, where
you can enjoy the peace of nature and
observe wetlands and lagoons of the upper
pads of the Moor, and the rivers which form
waterfalls and cascades. Also in the upper
part there are aspects of thermal and mineral
waters as the Papallacta where you can
immerse yourself in a relaxing bath in the
middle of nature.
View the Itinerary
Descripción: El Parque Nacional Cayambe – Coca, es una reserva natural de agua, en donde se podrá
disfrutar de la paz de la naturaleza, observar humedales y las lagunas de la parte alta, las almohadillas
del páramo, y los ríos que forman caídas y cascadas. Además en la parte alta existen vertientes de aguas
termales y minerales como las de Papallacta en donde se podrá sumergirse en un baño relajante en
medio de la naturaleza.
Ver el Itinerario
COTOPAXI Full Day Bike Tour
Operator: Biking Dutchman
Description: Our day starts early for
an adventure at the national park of
Cotopaxi, driving through pine forest
we will soon reach the museum of the
park. Then we will visit Limpiopungo
Lake, where we will put on helmets,
gloves and protection pads and begin
the bike adventure on the world’s
highest active volcano cwith beautiful
landscapes, flora and fauna and so on.
View the Itinerary
Descripción: Nuestro día comienza temprano, listos para una gran aventura en el Parque Nacional
Cotopaxi, conduciendo a través de un bosque de pinos y encontraremos primero el museo de sitio
del parque, seguido de una visita a la Laguna de Limpiopungo y listos con los cascos, guantes de
protección, la aventura en bicicleta continúa en el volcán activo más alto del mundo, rodeados de
hermosos paisajes, flora y fauna, y demás.
Ver el Itinerario
ESTC15 Ecuador
FIELD SESSIONS
Antisana Ecological Reserve
Operator: Ecoandes Travel
Description: Antisana Ecological Reserve surrounds Ecuador’s fourth largest volcano. It is in the eastern
range of the Ande and is home of the soaring Andean condor. We can appreciate one of the most
beautiful paramos of the eastern part of Ecuador. The landscapes are magnificent, and here we will enjoy
great trails and the glimpse of many different native highland birds and giant herds of sheep together
with a wonderful view of the impressive Antisana Volcano.
View the Itinerary
Descripción: La Reserva Ecológica Antisana, con una
extensión de 120.000 ha, se ubica entre las provincias
de Pichincha y Napo. Es un Área Protegida del Ecuador
y su principal atractivo es el volcán que da nombre
a la Reserva. Posee una extraordinaria biodiversidad
en flora y fauna, pantanos, lagunas y ecosistemas que
van desde el Bosque Húmedo Tropical hasta las nieves
perpetuas, pasando por extensos y dorados páramos,
último refugio del majestuoso cóndor andino.
Ver el Itinerario
FULL DAY: Quito - Otavalo- train - Atuntaquitextil factory - train - San Antonio – Otavalo
Operator: Geo Reisen
Description: Driving from Quito to the “Lakes Province” of
Imbabura, you will enjoy an exciting journey through unique
places during our trip. Crossing the equator line in Cayambe
volcane, it´s the highest point which crosses the line of Ecuador
in the world. Afterwards aboard the train from Otavalo, where
Andean landscape and culture can be observed. At Atuntaqui
Station, you will find the historic factory of Andrade Marín
andlearn about the history and value of the economy at the time.
Our trip continues to Ibarra, then the town of San Antonio by
Road, where artisans shape wooden sculptures. The next stop is
to visit the famous Otavalo Indian Market and Plaza de Ponchos,
one of the largest markets for Indian handicrafts in Latin America.
View the Itinerary
Descripción: Dirigiéndonos desde Quito a la “Provincia de los Lagos” llamada Imbabura. Disfrutará de un
emocionante viaje por lugares únicos, cruzaremos la línea equinoccial por el volcán Cayambe, el punto
más alto donde cruza la línea del Ecuador en el mundo, después a bordo del tren de Otavalo se puede
observar el paisaje y la cultura andina. En la estación de Atuntaqui, se encuentra la histórica fábrica
Andrade Marín, donde aprenderemos su importancia histórico y el valor en la economía del país, nuestro
viaje continúa a Ibarra, luego el pueblo de San Antonio por carretera, donde los artesanos dan forma a
esculturas de madera. La siguiente parada es para visitar el famoso Mercado Indígena de Otavalo y la
Plaza de Ponchos, uno de los mayores mercados para las artesanías indígenas en América Latina.
Ver el Itinerario
ESTC15 Ecuador
FIELD SESSIONS
Northern of Pichincha: Cochasqui - Quitsato
Operator: Latin Roots
Description: The Archaeological Park and scientific
research Cochasqui are considered an important
natural and archaeological heritage of the northeast
of the Pichincha province. The area is characterized
by quadrangular truncated pyramids, funeral
mounds, tolas and so on. Very close to this amazing
site, is located the new monument of the middle
of the world, with a huge solar watch measuring at
52 metres in diameter and which indicate the time,
solstice and equinox.
View the Itinerary
Descripción: El Parque Arqueológico y la investigación científica Cochasquí es un importante
patrimonio natural y arqueológico del noreste de la provincia de Pichincha, formada por pirámides
truncadas cuadrangulares, con montículos funerarios, entre otros, muy cerca de este sincreíble sitio
se encuentra el nuevo monumento a la Mitad del Mundo , con un enorme reloj solar de 52 metros de
diámetro, que señalan el tiempo y el solsticio y equinoccio.
Ver el Itinerario
Ecuadorian Train Journey
Operator: Latin Trails
Description: A travel through the Avenue of the Volcanoes, experiencing the traditions and expressions
of people who grew up on the paramo and among colorful valleys. We will approach the colossal
Cotopaxi Volcano, and the fun does not end with the route on the train, our passengers will enjoy the
activities in the Hacienda El Porvenir, including horseback riding and high-low ropes.
View the Itinerary
Descripción: Un viaje a través de la avenida de los
volcanes, conociendo las tradiciones y expresiones
de su gente que creció en el páramo y entre valles
coloridos, acercándonos cada ves más al coloso
Volcán Cotopaxi, y la diversión no termina con el
paseo en el tren, nuestros pasajeros disfrutarán
de las actividades programadas en la Hacienda El
Porvenir, entre paseos a caballo y curso de cuerdas
altas-bajas.
Ver el Itinerario
ESTC15 Ecuador
FIELD SESSIONS
Birdwatching in Mindo
Operator: Neblina Forest
Description: The presence of the Andes mountains from North to
South, forming valleys in between the West and the East Andes chain,
crossed by the Equator line, makes up different ecosystems both
eastern andean slopes and western andean slopes. Located near
Quito is the Tandayapa Valley, known as the hummingbird route,
and is a unique bird area with endemic species of birds and plants.
It transitions from the Cloudforest zone at 2,500 meters above the
sea level down to 1,700 m. a. s. l. Our trip will give our guests the
chance to have great views of hummingbirds ( birds just found in the
Americas ) and admire the different altitudinal ranges on western
Foothills of Andes, moreover, you can prove why Mindo was declared
by Birdlife International the first IBA (Important Bird Area).
View the Itinerary
Descripción: El viaje hacia el noroccidente de Pichincha hacia el área de Quito, permitirá observar
la gran variedad de pisos climáticos con los que cuenta nuestro país. Es justo esa variedad de rangos
altitudinales la que permite contar con una inmensa biodiversidad de flora y fauna. Desde el bosque
montano la ciudad de Quito ubicada a 2.800mts ( 9.000 pies ) de altura hasta el Valle de Mindo ubicado
a 1.200 mts (2.640 pies) de altura el grupo que en este día viaje podrá observar una gran cantidad de
aves , especialmente colibríes y tangaras, pero además plantas nativas de la zona , orquídeas y muchas
epífitas, es decir una experiencia de entender a los Andes y bosques nublados!
Ver el Itinerario
Quito City Tour
Operator: Quito Turismo
Description: The Company of Jesus church, with over
150 years of construction, is considered the most
important colonial building ofreligious architecture
baroque in South America. The market, which is a
century old, is the perfect place to know the costumes
and traditions of the country. La Ronda neighborhood
is the center of Quito culture and finally, a visit to the
pre-Columbian American tribute represented by our best
artist Guayasamín.
View the Itinerary
Descripción: La iglesia de la Compañía, con más de
150 años de construcción; es considerada la obra de
arquitectura religiosa colonial de estilo barroco más relevante en Sudamérica, es de gran importancia
al igual que el templo franciscano iniciado por Fray Jodoco Rickie. El mercado con un siglo de vida, es
el lugar propicio para conocer el encanto y tradiciones del país. El barrio la Ronda, centro de la cultura
quiteña y finalmente, la visita al tributo americano precolombino representado por nuestro mejor
artista Guayasamín.
Ver el Itinerario
ESTC15 Ecuador
FIELD SESSIONS
El Noroccidente
Operator: Quito Turismo
Description: At 0-0’-0” latitude in the area north of
Pomasqui, you will find the Equatorial Monument, at the
top of which lies a globe that is placed in the true position
of Earth. Few kilometers away we can visit the Pululahua
Crater, one of the craters in the world where there are
people living inside of it and with trails, flora and fauna to
explore.
View the Itinerary
Descripción: En la latitud 0-0’-0”, sobre la línea ecuatorial, se encuentra la grandiosa pirámide del
Monumento Equinoccial con un globo orientado a la verdadera posición de la tierra, muy cerca a este se
encuentra el cráter del Pululahua, uno de los cráteres en el mundo que es habitado y reconocido como
reserva geobotánica que es un gran atractivo turístico al recorrer sus senderos.
Ver el Itinerario
Yachay “City of Knowledge” Tour
Operators: Yachay and Surtrek
Description: In the last century, Hacienda San
Jose was one of the most important centers for
the economic development of northern Ecuador’s
Imbabura Province. It has since been recovered
and restored for the construction of the “City of
Knowledge”, and visitors can observe the progress
of infrastructure, meet the planning areas of the
city according to the provisions of the Master Plan
through a presentation of the model of the City of
Knowledge, and can visit the different areas such
as the botanical garden, The Hacienda San Eloy
Observation Deck, the former San Jose Sugar Mill,
chalet, and so on.
View the Itinerary
Descripción: La Hacienda San José, uno de los escenarios de Desarrollo Económico y Productivo
de Imbabura y del Norte del Ecuador en el siglo pasado, ha sido recuperado y restaurado para
la construcción de la ciudad del conocimiento, los visitantes podrán observar los avances de
infraestructura, conocer las zonas de planificación de la Ciudad de acuerdo a lo que establece el Plan
Maestro con la explicación de la maqueta y visita a los diferentes espacios como jardín botánico,
mirador San Eloy, Casa Hacienda, etc.
Ver el Itinerario
ESTC15 Ecuador
FIELD SESSIONS
Quito - Train Ride - Cotopaxi National Park - Quito
Operator: Tropic
Description: You will enjoy a full day educational field trip
with award winning ecotourism operator Tropic Journeys in
Nature. Our program starts with a tour by train, where you will
enjoy the Andean landscape and observe the local culture.
Then you will visit El Boliche Recreation Area, which is known
for its plantations of pines and cypresses. Later, you will visit
Cotopaxi National Park, where you can admire the majestic
Cotopaxi Volcano, an active volcano that measures 5,897
meters and where you can enjoy the paramo ecosystem, with
its flora and fauna.
View the Itinerary
Descripción: Los participantes de esta excursión disfrutarán de un día completo de excursión educativa
con el operador de ecoturismo galardonado Tropic Journeys in Nature. Nuestro programa, inicia con
un recorrido en tren, para disfrutar del paisaje y observar la cultura andina; además visitar a El Boliche
Área de Recreación que es conocida por sus plantaciones de pinos y cipreses. Más tarde visita al Parque
Nacional Cotopaxi, donde se puede admirar el majestuoso volcán Cotopaxi de 5.897 metros, uno de los
volcanes activos del mundo y donde se puede disfrutar del ecosistema de páramo, con su flora y fauna.
Ver el Itinerario
Jerusalem Protected Forest Birdwatching Field Trip
Operator: Southland Touring
Description: 28km North of Quito, on parallel 0°, this 1010 hectares
Protected Forest, owned and managed by the Pichincha Provincial
Government, is one of the last remaining and the most extensive Andean
Montane Scrub and Dry forest stretch in Ecuador. The elevation ranges from
2450-3000 meters with an average temperature 17°C/ 63°F –max. 23°C/
74°F- on a warm temperate climate, classified as lower montane Dry Forest
(Holdridge L.Z.S) and is home to 34 animal species and 76 bird species, on a
landscape characterized by acacia, agave, bromeliads and cactuses. Part of
the protected forest is undergoing reforestation and many areas have been
recovered. Other areas have been dedicated to environmental education and sustainable recreation as
part of a program of community enrollment to motivate preservation.
View the Itinerary
Descripción: 28km al norte de Quito, en el paralelo 0°, encontramos 1010 hectáreas protegidas de
bosque, de propiedad y manejo del Gobierno Provincial de Pichincha. Es uno de los pocos remanentes y
el más extenso matorral montano andino y bosque seco en Ecuador. Los rangos de elevación de 24503000 metros con una temperatura promedio 17° C / 63° F – máxima. 23° C / 74° F - en un clima cálido
templado, clasificada como bosque seco montano bajo (Holdridge L.Z.S) y es hogar de 34 especies de
animales y 76 especies de aves, en un paisaje caracterizado por acacias, agaves, bromelias y cactus.
Parte del bosque protegido está en proceso de reforestación y muchas áreas han sido recuperadas.
Otras áreas se han dedicado a la educación ambiental y recreación sustentable como parte de un
programa de inclusión de la comunidad para motivar la conservación.
Ver el Itinerario
ESTC15 Ecuador
PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS
SUNDAY APRIL 26
Global Sustainable Tourism Council presents:
Latin America Regional Meeting
The GSTC invites all interested parties to attend the upcoming GSTC Latin America Regional
Meeting in Quito Ecuador. This meeting will take place the day prior to the start of the
ESTC15. Lunch is included.
Presentations and round-table discussions on sustainable tourism standards, destination management, tourism
industry best practices, GSTC-led programs. There will be a focus on how concepts apply to the Latin America
region. This is a great opportunity to network and brainstorm with travel and tourism industry professionals in
Latin America and around the world.
The GSTC Latin America Regional Meeting will be attended by: GSTC Members & Staff, Travel & Tour Operators,
NGOs, Destination Managers, and Government Representatives.
Provisional Program:
• GSTC global updates and perspectives
• South American Sustainable Tourism Network, regional trends and the GSTC
• A call to action: Sustainability Education & Training Programs. Experiences on how to successfully
reach out to and engage the public & private sectors
• Latin American experiences; leveraging opportunities with the GSTC.
Workshops/Roundtable to highlight early adopter learning experiences for destinations which will
highlight the golden opportunities of sustainable destination development and how to keep the
momentum moving forward.
• Learning about how it all comes together (strategic destination planning, training and
development and management)
• The GSTC and Latin America | continued opportunities for future growth and development (TOs,
Hotels and Destinations)
Conservation Travel Forum in Partnership with WWF
Pre-Conference Workshop
9:00 – 13:00, lunch not included
WWF is one of the world’s largest and most respected independent conservation organizations,
with over 5 million supporters and a global network active in over 100 countries. WWF’s mission
is to stop the degradation of the earth’s natural environment and to build a future in which
humans live in harmony with nature, by conserving the world’s biological diversity, ensuring
that the use of renewable natural resources is sustainable, and promoting the reduction of
pollution and wasteful consumption.
For more information please enter: www.wwf.org.ec
Please see workshop description on following page:
ESTC15 Ecuador
PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS
SUNDAY APRIL 26
WWF Workshop
De la teoría a la acción: el modelo de ecoturismo en Galápagos y otros ejemplos de turismo y conservación
Fecha: 26 de abril 2015
Hora: 9h00 a 13h00
Lugar: Centro Cultural Itchimbia, Calle Iquique s/n – Parque Itchimbía. Quito - Ecuador
Temas: Galápagos y Ecoturismo, levantamiento y monitoreo de información, áreas protegidas, Conservation Travel
En esta sesión interactiva se discutirá las cuestiones prácticas relacionadas con la implementación del ecoturismo
y el turismo sostenible. Se destacará las iniciativas dentro de las áreas protegidas de Galápagos, los desafíos y
oportunidades del ecoturismo, así como los esfuerzos tanto del sector público como privado para lograr enfrentar
los desafíos de sustentabilidad del destino. Los expositores compartirán su experiencia respecto a las estrategias
efectivas para planificadores, administradores y operadores, de su trabajo en conjunto para el apoyo a las buenas
prácticas para la gestión sostenible del archipiélago. Se abordará una serie de temas sobre la gestión pública
incluyendo: gestión de uso público en áreas protegidas; así como los sistemas para el levantamiento de información
y monitoreo y su uso para la mejor toma de decisiones en el manejo y gestión del destino.
En la segunda parte de la sesión analizaremos temas relacionados a la importancia del turismo para la conservación
de los recursos naturales que son importantes para la industria. Esto debido a que alrededor del mundo la vida y
áreas silvestres están en un dramático declive. Nuestro capital natural ha sido sobre explotado y esto ha tenido un
impacto directo en el capital financiero de la industria del turismo puesto que los lugares destino han ido perdiendo
paisajes y especies que alguna vez fueron su atractivo principal. Sea por razones de cacería ilegal o destrucción del
hábitat para obtener beneficios a corto plazo, hoy en día afrontamos la cruda e impensable realidad de posibles
extinciones de elefantes y tigres que podría suceder en nuestras vidas. Esto es - en esencia - la consecuencia de una
cosa: la Vida Silvestre vale más muerta que viva en la mayoría de lugares en el mundo.
Pero el Turismo puede cambiar esto. Viajar puede transformar más que solo la vida de quien viaja. El Turismo de
Conservación – viajes sostenibles que incentivan de manera directa e invierte en la protección de la naturaleza –
pueden transformar la vida silvestre, los ecosistemas y los medios de vida de la gente que habita en cada destino,
pero esto requiere del compromiso de la industria. La economia del ecoturismo puede tener un efecto masivo
positivo en la conservación, dependiendo de las decisiones que tomen la compañía y el cliente, y cómo el flujo
financiero puede ser destinado a incentivar a comunidades y naciones hacía la preservación de la vida silvestre en
vida y a mantener las áreas prístinas intactas. Como industria no podemos seguir asumiendo que la naturaleza va
a permanecer intacta o que alguien más debe conservarla, el sector empresarial debe tomar su papel, la pregunta
es ¿cuál será el suyo?
ESTC15 Ecuador
PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS
SUNDAY APRIL 26
WWF Workshop AGENDA
Hora
Tema
Expositor
Observaciones
9h00 - 9h10
Apertura/Bienvenida
Mariuxi Farias, WWF Ecuador
9h10 - 09h40
Programa de Uso Público y
Ecoturismo en las Áreas Protegidas
de Galápagos
Eddy Silva. Parque Nacional
Galápagos, Ministerio del
Ambiente
Sujeto a cambios, coordinar con E.
Silva
09h4 - 10h20
Observatorio de Turismo de
Galápagos: Una herramienta para la
gestión y planificación del Destino
Juan Carlos Izurieta.
Coordinación Insular del
Ministerio de Turismo
Sujeto a cambios, coordinar con JC
Izurieta
10h20 - 10h50
Valor del turismo en la Reserva
Marina de Galápagos
Juan Carlos García. WWF
Ecuador
10h50 - 11h30
Coffe break
11h30 - 12h00
Conservation Travel
12h00 - 13h00
Grupos de Trabajo. Búsqueda de
ejemplos y mejores practicas de
Conservation Travel
Grupos de trabajo (numero depende
en la cantidad de participantes)
con faciltadores de WWF).
Objetivo es agregar ejemplos
de los participantes de cómo
estan incentivando conservacion,
influyendo la turista, y invertiendo
financiamente en proyectos
prioritarios de conservacion.
13h00 - 13h30
Presentaciones de resultados de
grupos de trabajo
5 ejemplos/5 minutos
13h30
Cierre
Jeffrey Parrish WWF-US
Presentación de lo que es
Conservation Travel y su impacto
hacia el futuro de la naturaleza
ESTC15 Ecuador
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AND PLENARY SESSIONS
Keynote: Minister of Tourism
Monday, April 27 (13:30 - 14:30, Palacio)
This year’s ESTC features Ecuador’s Minister of Tourism, Sandra Naranjo, whose vision is
to utilize tourism as an economic instrument to achieve sustainable development. She
has previously worked as the General Coordinator of Management Control of Presidential
Commitments and as a professor at Harvard Kennedy School. More recently, she worked on a
socio-economic study for the World Bank on a proposal to measure the losses in the tourism
sector due to the lack of sanitation in Bali, Indonesia.
Sandra Naranjo
Minister of Tourism,
Ecuador
Sustainable Development Panel
Monday, April 27 (14:30 - 16:00, Palacio)
The main outcome from the Rio Summit of 1992 was Agenda 21, an internationally agreed
statement supporting sustainable development, which with the Summit’s recommendations,
have special relevance to the tourism sector. Tourism continues to dominate economies all
over the world. It has shown prominence as the number one industry in 120 of 170 nations,
and with this increased economic reliance upon it, urgent attention is drawn to the economic
uses and potential of the natural and cultural environment as an economic resource for future
generations. Commonly accepted as a development ‘tool,’ tourism - especially mass tourism has nevertheless been subjected to severe criticism, one result of which has been increasing
pressure for ‘sustainable tourism.’
It is generally accepted that sustainability does not merely happen, but has to be planned,
and focus has again shifted to the role of the state, to governments and to the international
community, in creating the enabling conditions and institutions for sustainable tourism to
occur. Sometimes such activities have taken place within the context of wider development
planning. At other times, they appear to have occurred in isolation. Sometimes good
intentions have been effectively implemented in appropriate social institutions, but at other
times they have not. Our experienced panel will discuss successes and challenges in sustainable
tourism, including ecotourism, and key challenges in all tourism endeavors to manage so that
environmental, social, political, and economic sustainability is factored into the development
process.
Ronald Sanabria
Ronald Sanabria
Vice President, Sustainable
Tourism, Rainforest Alliance
Ronald Sanabria ha trabajado en la industria turística en programas de certificación,
productividad, aseguramiento de calidad y sostenibilidad desde 1992. Empezó labores con
Rainforest Alliance en el programa de Agricultura Sostenible en 1998, y dos años más tarde
inició con el desarrollo del programa de turismo sostenible de la organización. Durante este
periodo con Rainforest Alliance, el Sr. Sanabria ha coordinado proyectos en más de una decena
de países Latinoamericanos, impulsando capacitaciones en turismo sostenible así como
asistencia técnica para cientos de negocios turísticos y operaciones de carácter comunitario
mientras establece vínculos entre ellos y el mercado.
Con el apoyo del Fondo Multilateral de Inversiones del BID, Ronald dirigió la creación de la
Red de Certificación de Turismo Sostenible en las Américas. A nivel internacional, Sanabria fue
miembro de la junta directiva del Consejo Global de Turismo Sostenible (GSTC) del 2010 al 2012
y hoy forma parte del comité asesor para el programa de turismo sostenible del Marco de 10
Años en Producción y Consumo Sostenible de las Naciones Unidas. Ronald fue galardonado
con el premio “Amigo de la Naturaleza” EXPOTUR 2008 por sus esfuerzos por promover el
ESTC15 Ecuador
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AND PLENARY SESSIONS
turismo sostenible en Costa Rica. Asimismo fue incluido en la revista Conde Nast Traveler
“Power Issue” como uno de los 10 más influyentes guardianes del turismo sostenible. Desde
1992 ha formado parte del cuerpo docente de la Universidad de Costa Rica impartiendo clases
en la Facultad de Ingeniería. Sanabria cuneta con una licenciatura en Ingeniería Industrial
de la Universidad de Costa Rica y una maestría en Desarrollo Sostenible Internacional de la
Universidad de Brandeis, Massachusetts.
Jorge Perez
Jorge Perez
Gerente General,
Tierra del Volcan
Dr. Kelly Bricker
Chair and Professor,
Department of Parks,
Recreation and Tourism,
University of Utah
Jorge Perez is owner of Tierra del Volcan, an ecotourism and adventure travel company
operating in three traditional Andean Haciendas that surround majestic Cotopaxi, as well as
owner of World Bike Adventures, a mountain bike touring company offering trips around the
world. Since 2003, he has directed the Fundación Páramo, a private, non-profit organization
that is committed to protecting and preserving the páramo ecosystem within the area
surrounding the Cotopaxi volcano. He was President of the Ecuadorian Ecotourism Association
from 2007 to 2009, and holds a Master of Environmental Management, obtained from the
Universidad San Francisco de Quito.
Dr. Kelly Bricker, Moderator
Dr. Bricker is a Professor of Sustainable Tourism at the University of Utah in Parks, Recreation,
and Tourism. She completed her Ph.D. research with the Pennsylvania State University,
where she specialized in sustainable tourism and natural resource management. She
has special research and teaching interest in ecotourism, sense of place, natural resource
management, and the environmental and social impacts of tourism. Kelly has conducted
research on heritage tourism, social impacts of tourism, and natural resource-related tourism
environments. She has presented papers on issues in ecotourism, sense of place, natural
resource management, and incentive travel programs. She has published articles on sense
of place, ecotourism certification and policy, and health and sustainable tourism relative to
communities. With Rosemary Black and Stuart Cottrell, she authored and edited a book titled
Sustainable Tourism & the Millennium Development Goals: Effecting Positive Change. With her
husband Nathan, she developed an ecotourism operation called Rivers Fiji. She currently
serves as the Chair of The International Ecotourism Society’s (TIES) Research and Education
Council, the ESTC15 Conference, and as Vice Chair and Treasurer for the Global Sustainable
Tourism Council (GSTC).
Welcome to Ecuador Celebration
Monday, April 27 (18:00 - 20:00, Dome Tent, Ichimbia)
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is an international partnership with the aim of
fostering increased knowledge and understanding of sustainable tourism practices, promoting
the adoption of universal sustainable tourism principles and building demand for sustainable
travel. At the heart of its work are the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria for Hotels, Tour
Operators and Destinations.
Luigi Cabrini
Chair, Board of Directors,
Global Sustainable Tourism
Council (GSTC)
Advisor to the SecretaryGeneral of the World Tourism
Organization (UNWTO)
Mr. Cabrini has been the Director of the UNWTO Sustainable Tourism Programme from 2007
until 2013, focusing its activities on tourism and climate change, tourism and biodiversity,
observatories for sustainable tourism, tourism in the green economy, tourism and heritage and
global partnerships. From 2002 to 2007 he was UNWTO Regional Representative for Europe
and Secretary of the General Assembly and Executive Council. From 1982 to 2002 he was
responsible of United Nations programmes for development and assistance and protection
of refugees, including Representative’s positions, in Guatemala, Mexico, Somalia, Pakistan,
Poland and Spain. Luigi Cabrini is fluent in Italian, English, French and Spanish and has basic
knowledge of Russian and Polish. He is the author of various articles, speeches and papers.
ESTC15 Ecuador
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AND PLENARY SESSIONS
Ecotourism’s Contributions to Conservation: Mechanisms, Outcomes, Projections
Tuesday, April 28 (9:00 - 10:00, Palacio)
Dr. Ralf Buckley
Managing Owner,
Caiman Ecological Refuge
Dr. Buckley will present a global review of practical outcomes of ecotourism over past 3
decades. He will focus on measurable conservation outcomes such as increased populations
and genetic diversity of endangered species, reduced poaching risk, increased habitat
area, etc. Quantitative statistics at local, national and global levels. Comparison with other
conservation mechanisms, e.g. through relative contributions to parks budgets. Mechanisms
based on funding, through parks agencies, private enterprises, and various community and
multi-stakeholder partnerships. Mechanisms based on social change and political support
at various scales, including questions of asset ownership, employment, income, and equity.
Dependence on cultural and institutional contexts, differing between nations.
Drawing on previous books such as Conservation Tourism (2010), and articles in Journal of
Sustainable Tourism, Annals of Tourism Research, Tourism Recreation Research, Annual Review
of Environment and Resources, PLoS Biology, PLOS ONE, Science, and Nature. Includes case
studies, on-site audits and meta-analyses from all continents and over 40 countries. Analyses
of global patterns and trends, including cross-regional application of different models. Roles
of different stakeholders, including NGO’s, trusts and donors, as well as public, private and
communal organizations. Projections for future role and contributions of ecotourism based
on different global economic and environmental scenarios.
Ecotourism’s Contributions to Conservation: Mechanisms, Outcomes, Projections
Tuesday, April 28 (13:00 - 14:30, Palacio)
Around the world wildlife and wildlands are in dramatic decline. Our natural capital is
overdrawn, and that has a direct impact on the financial capital of the tourism industry when
destinations lose the scenery or species that were once their draw. Whether it be poaching
for wildlife parts or habitat destruction for short-sighted profit, we now face the harsh reality
that even the unthinkable of elephant or tiger extinctions could happen in our lifetimes.
This is – at its core – a result of one thing: Wildlife is not worth more alive than dead in most
places around the world.
Dr. Jeff Parrish
Director,
Conservation Resources,
World Wildlife Fund
But tourism can change that. Travel can transform more than the life of the traveler.
Conservation Travel - sustainable travel that directly incentivizes and invests in protecting
nature - can transform wildlife, ecosystems, and the livelihoods of people at a destination
– but it takes industry commitment. The economics of ecotourism can have a massive
positive effect on conservation, depending on the choices of the company and client, and
how finances can flow to incentivize communities or nations to keep their wildlife alive
and wildlands intact. We can no longer assume as an industry that nature will remain or
someone else has conservation covered – business must play a part. What will yours be?
Dr. Jeffrey Parrish is Managing Director for Conservation Resources at the World Wildlife
Fund, where he is responsible for pushing the edges of our boldest conservation ventures,
exploring the biggest most creative solutions for WWF’s mission. He also serves as a chief
ambassador, sharing those innovations and stories with the converted and unconverted
alike. Jefe, the Spanish nickname by which he is known to most all in conservation, brings a
contagious energy, fierce determination, and entrepreneurial spirit to WWF’s efforts to save
our planet.
Prior to joining WWF in 2010, Parrish led the Freedom to Roam (FTR) coalition with the
founders and business of Patagonia Inc. There, he developed groundbreaking partnerships
and campaigns to promote the protection and connectivity of increasingly fragmented lands
and waters in North America. Before FTR, Jefe held several leadership positions over his 12year career at The Nature Conservancy and at Manomet Center for Conservation Science,
most notably as director for TNC’s Global Protected Areas Strategy and Executive VicePresident for Manomet.
ESTC15 Ecuador
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AND PLENARY SESSIONS
El Turismo Sostenible en el Destino Turístico Cusco Machupicchu, Perú: Balance y Perspectivas
Thursday, April 30 (13:00 - 14:30, Palacio)
Antoine George
Jurista - Economista Trilingüe especializado en Administración y Política
Internacional de la Universidad de Grenoble, Francia 1996. Antoine George
comienza su carrera profesional en el sector turismo con viajes a más de 25
países entre América Latina, África, la península arábica y Europa.
Cursa una primera maestría de “Turismo, Cultura y Desarrollo en la Universidad
de la Sorbonne en París, Francia (2001), luego en Estudios del Desarrollo en el
Alto Instituto de Estudios Internacionales de Ginebra, Suiza (2005) y en Turismo
Sostenible y Desarrollo Local con el Centro Internacional de Formación de la OIT
(2010).
Entre otros, ha trabajado con la Organización Neerlandesa del Desarrollo (SNV)
como consejero del Ministerio de Turismo de Camerún en programas de la
Fundación ST-EP de la OMT y en todas las regiones turísticas del país.
Desde el año 2008 trabaja como consultor externo de entidades estatales en Perú
principalmente. Ha participado en la elaboración del Plan de Uso Público de
Machu Picchu, asesorado a la empresa Perurail en temas de Responsabilidad
Social Empresarial y elaborado varios planes de desarrollo turístico locales en
todo el Perú colaborando con la Dirección Nacional de Desarrollo Turístico del
MINCETUR (Ministerio de Comercio Exterior y Turismo. Es Asesor de los más
grandes Tour Operadores Franceses y Consultor de Gobiernos Locales.
Los temas que resaltan en sus artículos se centra en el impacto del turismo en la
sociedad y la cultura de las poblaciones anfitrionas.
Community and Indigenous Tourism Panel
Thursday, April 30 (14:45 - 16:15, Yaku Water Museum)
Tribal and Indigenous communities are often showcased as a key element of a destinations
cultural and ecotourism offerings. These same communities are often either excluded or
marginalized from the actual tourism development process. Worldwide, tourism to native
communities is one of the most sought after tourism activities by existing and emerging
markets. Indigenous communities can benefit greatly in the areas of economic development,
job creation, cultural preservation among others, when they manage their own tourism
process. This panel will discuss examples and best practices for indigenous communities
seeking to build their future economic growth while sustainable and strengthening their
natural and cultural legacy.
Kristin Lamoureux
Kristin Lamoureux is Director of the International Institute of Tourism Studies and a Visiting
Assistant Professor at the George Washington University, as well as an adjunct faculty
member of the Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management. She holds a Ph.D. in
Strategic Planning and Tourism Development. She has been involved within professional and
academic education for over fifteen years, including the oversight of all IITS grant activities
and training programs offered in Washington, DC as well as through distance learning and in
customized formats throughout the world.
Dr. Kristin Lamoreaux
Director,
International Institute of
Tourism Studies
Additionally, she is involved in several projects focusing on tourism in developing countries
and with indigenous populations including Honduras, Belize, Egypt, Mali, Dominican
Republic, Ecuador, Ethiopia, Bulgaria and Jordan. Dr. Lamoureux has served as a consultant
for the US Department of Interior, USAID, the World Bank, the UN World Tourism Organization,
the US Environmental Protection Agency, the Ecotourism Society, and Conservation
ESTC15 Ecuador
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AND PLENARY SESSIONS
International, among others. Her primary focus areas include cultural heritage tourism,
volunteer tourism, public private partnerships, community development, sustainable
tourism development, environmental management destination management and tourism
workforce development. She has recently been quoted in several articles pertaining to her
work in volunteer tourism including Time Magazine, Conde Nast Traveler the Globe and Mail
Newspaper and the Washington Times.
Dr. Lamoureux began her education in Ecuador where she lived for several years. She has
an A.S. from La Universidad Catolica del Ecuador, a B.S. from Johnson and Wales University
in Rhode Island, a M.T.A. (Master of Tourism Administration) and a Ph.D. in Business
Administration with a focus on Strategic Management and Sustainable Tourism from The
George Washington University in Washington, DC.
Jascivan Carvalho
Jascivan Carvalho
Owner and General Manager,
Tropic Journeys in Nature
Jascivan Carvalho is the general manager and owner of Tropic Journeys in Nature (www.
destinationecuador.com ), one of the leading Ecotourism Operators in South America. He
also is co-founder with the Huaorani people and developer of the internationally known
Huaorani Ecolodge, an award- winning ecotourism operation in Ecuador’s Amazon region,
and he is the founder of Waponi, the first ecotourism incubator and sustainable tourism
consulting firm in Ecuador. This entrepreneur has been working for more than ten years now
on sustainable community tourism projects throughout Ecuador. Most recently he is devoting
much of his time to assisting a small community on Floreana Island in the Galapagos on their
community tourism initiative. Jascivan has been at least partly responsible for the emphasis
the present government has given to sustainable tourism. He recently represented both his
company and his country at ITB in Berlin where Tropic received National Geographic’s World
Legacy Award for community engagement.”
David Parra Bozzano
David Parra
Vice Minister of Tourism,
Ecuador
David Parra Bozzano is an architect specializing in tourism and the environment with extensive national
and international project experience in tourism and spatial planning, cultural and natural heritage
conservation, and the development of tourism products. Prior to becoming Vice Minister of Tourism
for Ecuador, he served as Executive Secretary of the Comisión Especial de Turismo Amazónico, Tourism
Specialist for the Áreas Protegidas en Centroamérica y el Caribe, member of the Grupo Asesor y de
Capacitación de la Organización Mundial del Turismo (UNWTO), and Sectorialista de Turismo y Medio
Ambiente de la Unidad Intersectorial de Turismo de la Organización de Estados Americanos. In addition
to his professional work, Mr. Parra has been invited as a guest instructor in universities in the United
States and Europe.
Juan Luna-Kelser, Moderator
Juan Luna-Kelser made a career at the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) in planning,
designing, and managing tourism investment and sector loan projects for the Latin America
and the Caribbean region. Since his retirement from the IDB in January 2007, Juan continues
to be engaged by bilateral and multilateral financial institutions, as well as NGOs and private
clients for sustainable tourism projects.
As an Adjunct Professor and Sr. Research Scholar at George Washington University’s School
of Business and International Institute of Tourism Studies, Juan has taught courses in tourism
policy analysis, community-based tourism and provided training courses in destination
management, product development, ecotourism, workforce development, and rural and
ESTC15 Ecuador
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AND PLENARY SESSIONS
community-based tourism. Juan is also an advisor, facilitator and co-instructor to the
University’s School of Business International Consulting Practicum Study Abroad Summer
Program, involving graduate students in a six-week real-life tourism consulting assignment.
In addition, Juan is the coordinator for the on-site portion of the UNWTO Themis Foundation/
GW Course on Tourism and International Cooperation for Development, a course that trains
university graduates and professionals in subject areas related to international cooperation
and development through tourism.
Juan Luna-Kelser
Adjunct Professor and Sr.
Research Scholar,
George Washington
University
Juan holds a master’s degree in Tourism Administration with a concentration in Sustainable
Destination Management from George Washington University, as well as a master’s degree in
Political Science from Drew University, Madison, New Jersey. He earned his bachelor’s degree
in Political Science at the University of the Pacific, Stockton, California. Juan is originally from
Mexico City and is fluent in Spanish, English and Portuguese.
ESTC15 Ecuador
CASE STUDIES, PROJECTS, AND RESEARCH LEARNING
AND ENRICHMENT POSTER SESSION
(TUESDAY, APRIL 28, EXHIBIT HALL 14:30 - 15:30)
Jefferson Dent &
Maya Brandon
Implementation of Sustainable Foods in Ecotourism
Laguna Lodge Eco-Resort &
Nature Reserve
Guatemala
Shane Feyers
Greenprinting a Cooperative Ecotourism Operation in
Northeastern United States
Yale School of Forestry and
Environmental Studies
United
States of
America
Juan Antonio Garay
Montes
Implementing the Program of Sustainable Tourism in
Community of Tourism from Cocahimba & Valera –
Valera District Bongara Province – Amazonas Region
– Peru
Universidad Nacional de San Peru
Martin
Jordan Blair1, Dr.
Kelly S. Bricker2,
Elise T. J. Gatti2, Dr.
Deborah Kerstetter1,
Alison Murray1
A Systematic Review of Theses and Dissertations on
Sustainable or Eco Tourism from 1990-2014
1 The Pennsylvania State
Andres Hammerman
2 University of Utah
United
States of
America
Human Waste & Tourism – Changing Our Mindset on
Composting Toilets
Black Sheep Inn Ecolodge
Ecuador
Martín Jaramillo
Darwin’s Submarine
Universidad de
Especialidades Turísticas
(UCT)
Ecuador
Arturo Justicia
Programa de Responsabilidade Socioambiental da
Associação Comercial de Ilhabela
Conecta Tecnologia
Socioambiental
Brasil
Nayoung Kim
The Effect of the Personal Value and Lifestyle on the
Perceived Value of Sustainable Tourism
Sungkonghoe University
South Korea
Russel Krasnuik
Bending Traditions Non-Ecotourism Community
Medicine Hat College
Canada
Pablo Manzano
Developing Ecotourism Planning Proccess: The Case of Escuela Superior Politécnica
San Juan Parish at the Chimborazo Province
de Chimborazo (ESPOCH)
Ecuador
Sandra Miranda
El Patrimonio Cultural Como Una Alternativa de
Desarrollo para las Comunidades. Casos de Estudio:
Comunidad Charrúa Pueblo Jaguar – Argentina
y Corporación para el Desarrollo de Turismo
Comunitario de Chimborazo – Ecuador
Escuela Superior Politécnica
de Chimborazo (ESPOCH)
Ecuador
Patricio Noboa
Community Based Tourism: Senses About the Nature
and the Culture Struggle
Escuela Superior Politécnica
de Chimborazo (ESPOCH)
Ecuador
Ricardo Pozo
New Tourism Landscapes: Tourism Enclaves or
Territories of Local Resilience? The Case of Puerto
López, Ecuador 1990 - 2010
University Duisburg-Essen
Germany
University
Dr. Fernando Recalde Luxury Solar_Eco Farm Resort & Productive Country’s
Leon, Paul Armas
Club Model / Advanced Food Security (Soil-less)
Farming Chain with Strong Renewable Energies
Integration
ABITA Interuniversity
Italy
Research Center in
BioArchitecture and
Environmental Technologies
Susan Santos de
Cardenas
The Coron Initiative - Sustainable Ecotourism
Development and Stewardship
Society for Sustainable
Tourism Development Inc.
(SSTDI)
Philippines
Mihai Voda
The Role of Geomedia in Prospecting and Promoting
Ecotourism in Transylvania, as an Alternative for
Sustainable Development
Dimitrie Cantemir University
Romania
TBA
Implementación de Deportes Acuáticos en el Área
Nacional de Recreación Isla Santay
Universidad de Guayaquil
(FACSO)
Ecuador
ESTC15 Ecuador
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 1
LATIN AMERICAN AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Moderator: D’Arcy Dornan
Sustainable Travel International
Breakout Room 1
10:15 - 10:45
To be announced.
Paloma Zapata
Office of American States, Ecuador
10:45 - 11:15
To be announced.
Diego Abente
Logical Steps from a Natural Attraction to Sustainable Tourism
To be announced.
Rodrigo Salas
ESTC15 Ecuador
11:15 - 11:45
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 2
THRIVING COMMUNITIES
Moderator: Natalia Naranjo
Sustained Economic Growth Through Co-management in Zambia:
The Case of Mkuni Village
Felicite Fairer-Wessels
Breakout Room 2
10:15 - 10:45
Tourism is regarded as a viable economic activity with the potential to stimulate economic
growth. Sound tourism development strategies and well-coordinated implementation plans
are essential in achieving greater value creation and improved livelihoods from tourism,
particularly in Least Developed Countries. One such strategy that has gained prominence in
recent times is co-management. Synonymous to cooperative or collaborative management,
co-management refers to the joint management by multiple actors with distinct interests of
common pool resources. It is an arrangement in which government and local resource users
form partnerships involving the sharing of power and responsibility. Against the backdrop
of increasing dissatisfaction with fortress conservation, co-management has emerged as
an alternative to resource management. Given the lack of commitment to implementation
of most government policies, it is imperative that the nature of co-management of tourism
in Zambia is investigated. Results of the analyses will be used to formulate a framework for
effective implementation of co-management of tourism in Mukuni village; and provide a basis
for policy reform and effective implementation of policy that will in turn enhance economic
development and the well-being of rural communities in Zambia.
Taking a LEAP Steps: The Essential Evolution of Participatory Leadership Style in
Ccommunity-based Tourism Development Process - Case Study from DASTA, Thailand
10:45 - 11:15
Community-based tourism is widely used as a tool for sustainable community development
especially in developing countries like Thailand. As a governmental agency aims to develop
sustainable tourism in Thailand, Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration or
DASTA uses community-based tourism development as a process to involve local community
in sustainable tourism development master plan. To engage local community in tourism
development plan, DASTA is currently working with 13 communities around Thailand.
The main objective is to build capacity for local community so that they can be a part of
sustainable tourism development and consequently yield benefits from tourism development
Wanvipa Phanumat
in their local area. The development process is divided into 4 phases which are 1) introduction
to tourism, 2) community capacity building, 3) market access, and 4) sustaining tourism
benefit. In the first phase, DASTA facilitates to form “Community-based Tourism Club” in each
community so they can be the leading group of community member who will drive the
community-based tourism development process. For the past 3 years of working together
with 13 communities, we have learned that in order to drive the community-based tourism
development process effectively and sustainably, the leadership style needs to evolve to serve
the changing purpose of development in each phase. The role of leader needs to evolve in
LEAP steps which is Leading to Elevating to Allocating and finally Passing forward. This lesson
learned will be shared in details for the benefit of both academic and practitioner involved in
community-based tourism development as community leader is one of the most important
key success factor in sustainable community-based tourism development.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Eco-Lodge Warriors: The Huaorani, Their Forests, Their Culture
Jascivan Carvalho
11:15 - 11:45
Since its founding in 1994, TROPIC’s objective has been to promote the link between
responsible tourism, social and economic development, and environmental conservation.
That idea formed the basis of our first project with the Huaorani, a nomadic warrior people
who according to their oral history migrated from the Northern Amazon some 600 years
ago, finally settling in the northeast of what is now Ecuador. Their territory comprises some
612,000 hectares, but oil companies and illegal loggers have made serious inroads into these
Amazonian lands with predictable negative consequences for the forests and for Huaorani
culture.
The full engagement of the local community has been absolutely essential to the project’s
success, while respect and consultation have not only been the norm but also the key to a
mutually beneficial working relationship. The infrastructure is owned by the community,
and work and income are provided for 80 local people, who set their own wage levels and
decide on where profits are invested. The forest also remains intact. As well as the benefits
mentioned, the Ecolodge also led to the creation of a 55,000 hectare wildlife reserve. Animal
life was diminishing, partially due to over-hunting, so after considering its options the
community decided to limit hunting; they understood that offering visitors the chance to
see wildlife – thus boosting tourism - dovetailed well with ensuring food supply through
conservation.
Supported by the UNPD and the Wildlife Conservation Society, TROPIC began working with
the community on a participatory mapping process: establishing conservation, community
activity and hunting areas. Hard information was provided by a camera trap project and bird
nesting surveys, and local young people now research and monitor wildlife. The University
of Sussex also helped set up a research center, providing jobs, information, and a greater
commitment to ecotourism.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 3
CONSERVING BIODIVERSITY
Moderator: Jorge Moller
Breakout Room 3
Criterios para la Construcción de Infraestructura Ecológica en Áreas Naturales Protegidas
Juan Chavez
10:15 - 10:45
Actualmente el Ministerio de Ambiente se encuentra en un proceso de remodelación de las
instalaciones de uso público o administrativo dentro de 20 áreas protegidas priorizadas en la
Costa, Sierra y Oriente, con el objeto de poner en práctica diversos principios constructivos
de carácter ambiental que le den sostenibilidad a las instalaciones pero que al mismo
tiempo se acoplen al entorno natural y brinden un servicio de excelencia a los usuarios.
Para lograr esto, a cada área protegida se le está dando su propia imagen arquitectónica
estandarizada de acuerdo a las características naturales y culturales propias de cada sitio.
Se están mitigando todos los impactos visuales de las instalaciones para que se acoplen
armónicamente con el paisaje. Se están usando únicamente materiales de construcción
eco-responsables, como son maderas provenientes de plantaciones forestales o tablones
de plástico reciclado. Se está economizando energía y agua a través de diversas técnicas y
se están mitigando impactos ambientales mediante el tratamiento de desechos sólidos y
líquidos. Una vez que concluya el proyecto de remodelación de infraestructura el Ecuador
será un referente en cuanto al diseño, construcción y mantenimiento de infraestructura
ecológica dentro de áreas naturales protegidas, promoviendo la conservación y el desarrollo
sostenible.
Ecoturismo, Estrategia para la Conservación y Desarrollo del Patrimonio Natural y Cultural,
en las Zonas de Influencia de las Áreas Protegidas Continentales del Ecuador
10:45 - 11:15
Walter Ocaña
La Escuela de Hospitalidad y Turismo, de la UDLA (TIES Sponsorship), se encuentra
desarrollando una investigación, respecto a los efectos de las actividades turísticas en el
noroccidente de la provincia de Pichincha. El estudio parte de la presunción de que el turismo
ha contribuido a la conservación del patrimonio natural y cultural, y al desarrollo territorial
de las parroquias rurales del área de estudio. El Panel plantea un espacio de discusión
respecto al desarrollo de actividades turísticas, como estrategia para la conservación de la
biodiversidad y el patrimonio cultural, la forma de vida y el desarrollo de la población local.
El aumento de las actividades turísticas ha dado como resultado, por un lado el denominado
‘efecto multiplicador’, en donde la actividad turística genera corrientes de flujos de renta,
que permiten un aumento del ingreso en los demás sectores de la actividad económica
local (Sancho, 2008) y, por otro una disyuntiva respecto a su capacidad de desarrollo en
las sociedades receptoras, siendo en muchos de los casos un reflejo del subdesarrollo y la
dependencia (y/o alineación) de economías más fuertes (Rubio, 2003). El aparecimiento de
nuevos lugares vinculados al turismo, incentiva el surgimiento de las denominadas “periferias
turísticas” (Antón y González, 2008). En donde el turismo de naturaleza y posteriormente
el Ecoturismo, se convierten en instrumentos para el fomento de ‘alternativas para el
desarrollo’ a nivel local. Propuestas de financiamiento y diversificación de la oferta de servicios
ambientales, principalmente en las áreas protegidas, convierten al turismo en una estrategia
para la conservación de la biodiversidad a largo plazo (The Nature Conservancy, 2007). En
el caso del Ecuador, el Estado crea en 1968 la primera reserva natural continental (Reserva
Geobotánica Pululahua), con el propósito de conservar y proteger la biodiversidad del
país (Ministerio del Ambiente, 2013); en el año 2011 la Secretaría de Ambiente del Distrito
Metropolitano de Quito (DMQ), crea las Áreas de Conservación y Uso Sustentable (ACUS), con
el objetivo de proteger remanentes de bosques y la biodiversidad asociada a ellas, así como la
provisión de bienes y servicios ambientales para las comunidades involucradas, considerando
al turismo, dentro de las actividades permitidas en las ACUS. (Concejo Metropolitano de
Quito, 2011).
ESTC15 Ecuador
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Su implementación responde a procesos espontáneos y coyunturales, buscando la
conservación de bosques (por medio de la creación de espacios protegidos - áreas protegidas,
el desarrollo de formas alternativas de turismo, ecoturismo y turismo especializado) y la puesta
en valor del patrimonio cultural (la interacción del ser humano con la naturaleza). lo que ha
dado como resultado el surgimiento de destinos emergentes, así como el descontrolado
crecimiento de iniciativas privadas (hosterias, restaurantes, sitios recreativos, balnerarios, etc,.),
comunitarias (turismo comunitario, aviturismo y ecoturismo comunitario) y públicas, se han
sumado, con el propósito de generar conservación y desarrollo en sus localidades.
The Environmental and Economic Benefits of Animal Friendly Tourism
11:15 - 11:45
The tourism industry becomes more inclined towards animal welfare as many travelers
who aspire to interact with animals have an increasing awareness about the needs of
them. Improving animal welfare is key to treating animals in an ethical way and proves to
be an effective tool to gain tourists’ support for sustainability. Animal friendly tourism has
environmental and economic benefits that spur sustainable initiatives and help to secure longterm conservation of wildlife and wildlife habitats.
Marloes Harel
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 4
SUSTAINABLE DESTINATIONS
Breakout Room 4
Moderator: Kelly Bricker
Providing Sustainable Economic Opportunity from Africa’s Great Outdoors:
The Case of BraveHearts Expeditions
10:15 - 10:45
Although West Africa is rich in culture, wildlife, forests, mountains and the largest manmade lake on earth – the resources that can be harnessed on a largely sustainable scale
to generate high tourism and adventure sports revenues – most of its citizens wallow in
economic hardships brought on by weak and falling currencies, high unemployment rates
and environmental degradation. This presentation examines how BraveHearts Expeditions’
unique business model helps to (1) Generate more foreign currency to the sub-region, (2)
Provide economic opportunity and jobs for many people, 65% for rural women and (3)
Provide economic incentives to local communities to halt the process of environmental
Dziedzorm Segbefia
degradation and prevent the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services. The presentation
further measures the key outcomes of BraveHearts Expeditions’ interventions in revenue and
environmental terms.
Maximizing Local Economic Benefits While Enhancing Sustainable Infrastructure Development:
The CapeNature Experience of Public Private Partnerships at De Hoop Nature Reserve,
Western Cape South Africa
10:45 - 11:15
Mahbobah Jacobs
The De Hoop Eco-Tourism Project is a public private partnership (PPP) established in 2009,
between CapeNature, the nature conservation agency of the Western Cape Province, and
Madikwe Investments (PTY) LTD, a high end tourism service provider. By leveraging private
sector capital for tourism infrastructure development, through the Public Private Partnership,
CapeNature was not only able to capitalize on private sector expertise, knowledge and
efficiency in the construction process, but was able to divert its limited government funding
to pursue conservation objectives, whilst still meeting its heritage, access and local economic
development obligations.
Local Communities and Ecotourism: Enhancing Economic Benefits and Sense of Place Case Studies from Central and Eastern Europe
11:15 - 11:45
More and more local communities across the globe are struggling to maintain the uniqueness
of the places they live and at the same time to balance it with the economic development.
The presentation will focus on practical case studies on sustainable tourism from Central
and Eastern Europe undertaken over 20 years of transition to democracy and civil society
in the region. Local stories, mostly from rural regions of Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia,
Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and Belarus, will present how sustainable tourism can mobilize
local communities – encouraging enterprise, creating jobs and additional revenue streams,
restoring and protecting traditional vocations and styles of life. At the grassroots level
Dominika Zareba
ecotourism and heritage tourism could be tools to foster local economic development, while
using local resources, strengthening the cultural and social identity and building sense of a
place.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 5
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
Moderator: Mercedes Hunt
Breakout Room 5
Ecotourism Development Potential in Rural Areas: Case of Vihiga County in Kenya Ndenyele Omalenge
10:15 - 10:45
Increasing attention has been focused on ecotourism as an alternative to mass tourism in
Kenya. Thanks to various efforts by environmentalists and conservatives in bringing the plight
of losses of various forests and associated indigenous cultures due to unplanned commercial
tourist ventures. Hence, the need for ecotourism development models has been emerging
from the counties of Kenya wherein the counties have prioritized sustainable development in
line with the Kenya Vision 2030 agenda. This research study is based on a macro-framework
of ecotourism potential in Vihiga County in Kenya. The study highlighted seven such cultural
sites. Among which, two sites were explored in detail to illuminate the conservation of
ecotourism sites, in an attempt to explore the following: (i). the social, economic and political
contexts of the region where the sites are located, and (ii) the prevailing joint indigenous
conservation efforts by the local communities that have proven to be effective.
Results show that by scaling down production processes in ecotourism entrepreneurship by
returning power to local units of governance, ecotourism may minimize negative impacts,
reduce economic leakages, and concentrate the benefits to the local communities. However,
the article acknowledges that the international nature of tourism creates many obstacles
for local communities wishing to maintain control of their tourism industry. In many cases,
local people have neither the political power nor the business connections to compete at an
international level due to the lack of bargaining power with international and metropolitan
tour agencies.
Persistent Footprints: Territorial Occupation Strategies for Ecotourism Development
Santiago Orbea Cevallos
10:45 - 11:15
In light of the shift toward the understanding of archaeology at a larger scale, the city of
Quito has compiled a large set of scattered publications into an “Archaeological Atlas” of
the Metropolitan District published in 2009, which contains the first demonstration of
how the territory was occupied since 2000 years ago. Interestingly, the research’s result
demonstrates the existence of a large constellation of Tell formations around the current
built area of Quito. Therefore, this thesis will also take advantage of this valuable recent asset
to understand
the logic behind the placement of Tells, their inter-relationships and their
connection to the inscribed geography, which points to the main research question: How
can today’s archaeological findings about Tell formations provide guidelines to address urban
design at a territorial scale? The logics of expansion that followed the Spanish occupation
of
the Andean Region enforced a linear paradigm that disrupted the ancient, topographically
driven order. Spanish-American cities were spread longitudinally across valleys elongating a
predefined grid that
still determines the modern-day conditions of cities like Quito, Ecuador.
Although this paradigm served the colonial city since 1534, recent sprawl towards the eastern
valley has forced a transversal interaction that
has, among other things, intensified traffic
congestion. In this context, the recent archaeological findings of the Yumbo culture in the
western territory of Quito serve as an alternative land occupation paradigm. This collection of
thin ancient pathways, called culuncos, and over 500 earth mounds, called tolas, demonstrate
a sequential placement of elemental architectural objects that took into account the abrupt
topography, the water flow, and the tropical vegetation landscape. This thesis draws on
western Quito’s archaeological findings to extract urban design guidelines in order to organize
the territory and to propose a gradual development of the existing population. The intention
is that the tolas and culuncos should not merely be protected, but should inform the new
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
implementation of utilities, production areas, and plot subdivisions. Furthermore, to create a
more economically active and environmentally sustainable space, these elements must also
intersect with an additional recreational program to configure a new National Archaeological
Park, which would bridge the tension between the current system and the ancient
configuration. Advisor: Hashim Sarkis; Collaboration: Joan Busquets, Harvard GSD.
What is the Bottom Line Economic Value of Sustainable Tourism in Ireland?
11:15 - 11:45
According to statistics, consumers crave ‘green’ travel choices, but they do not speak to the
bottom line economic value for travel companies that choose to implement sustainability
into their operations. Other than the occasional anecdote that spotlights an individual
hotel’s experience, there has been no detailed data behind “green is good for business”
claims until now. By all accounts, Ireland has been moving toward sustainable tourism at a
rapid pace.
Irene Lane
In the last decade, Ireland has developed sustainable tourism standards, a globally
recognized eco-certification program, green travel marketing toolkits, and most recently,
the Wild Atlantic Way touring route filled with agritourism food trails, naturalist-guided
adventure activities and environmentally-conscious boutique hotels. However, one question
remained, namely ‘How could Ireland ensure the future economic and social growth as well
as sustainable development of its communities, environment and heritage given the lack
of relevant benchmarking data for sustainable tourism?’ Over the last months, the National
Tourism Development Authority of Ireland (Fáilte Ireland), the Burren Ecotourism Network
(B.E.N), the Electric Escapes biking consortium, the Tralee Institute of Technology, the
University of Limerick, and sustainable travel consultancy Greenloons have been working
as part of a joint venture to determine the driving elements of sustainability that affect
Return on Investment (ROI). Specifically utilizing an environmental scorecard approach for
measuring ROI, Greenloons built upon the operational and environmental elements that
are typically measured by tourism businesses and expanded it to include the costs for and
benefits to employees, communities and customers.
The Greenloons proprietary model addresses how sustainable tourism companies can plan,
budget, and market the social, economic, and environmental changes and improvements
sustainability will bring to their business. During the presentation, I will discuss the ROI
model, identify the driving elements of sustainability for tourism in Ireland, and present a
case study.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 6
ECOTOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM MARKETING
Palacio
Moderator: Deb Kerstetter
Limbic Communication: How Brain Science Can Improve Your Brand
Jessica Blackstock
10:15 - 10:45
One of the few things brain science can tell us for sure, is that decision-making comes from
the limbic brain and that the limbic brain is incapable of logic, statistics, and language. Yet
most organizations communicate only their features and benefits, using logical arguments,
numbers, and descriptive language. None of that touches the limbic brain and has little hope
of attracting business. Communicating to the limbic brain is much harder, but if you know
the secret to doing it effectively, your clients will do most of your advertising for you. In this
presentation you’ll learn what works, why it works, and how you can make it work for your
business.
Nathan Harvey and
The Online Presence of Sustainable Travel and Tourism
Marlilyn Waite
11:00 - 11:45
The Internet has increased access to information and has enabled people to express their
voices from every corner of the globe. Each day, millions of travelers go online to purchase
transportation tickets, reserve accommodation, and plan their visit. Still, ecotourism remains
a travel niche. How can sustainable tourism players increase their presence online? How
can tourists become better informed, through their online surfing, about the benefits of
a sustainable trip? Ecotourism has an important role to play in the larger societal goal of
sustainability. The objectives of eradicating extreme poverty, ensuring health and wellbeing for individuals, sustaining ecosystems and cultures, enhancing fair and equal access
to education, and maximizing local economic benefits can all be aided by a responsible
tourism industry. Online to Offline tools can be catalyzers for achieving these goals. This
presentation will focus on how the Internet, including on mobile devices, helps tourists and
visitors create their business and leisure travel experience. SustainableVisit.com will share
the results of a survey that questioned consumers about their online and offline approach to
travel. We will present the different online tools currently used by all tourists and the online
tools currently available to eco-conscious tourists. In addition, we will share advice on how to
maximize your ecotourism presence in the world of apps, social media, websites, blogs, and
more. We will share the case study of the start-up SustainableVisit.com and the Quadruple
Sustainability Learning + Travel App: progress, lessons learned and general advice for the
ecotourism industry.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 1
ECOTOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM MARKETING
Moderator: Deb Kerstetter
A Stakeholder Approach to Sustainable Place Branding:
It Comes From the Heart
Dr. David Cardenas
16:00 - 16:30
In an increasingly competitive global marketplace, it’s become critical for communities to
create a unique and authentic identity, to differentiate themselves from competitors. Many
places claim to have spectacular scenery, superb attractions, friendly people, and a sound
business infrastructure. However, these factors are no longer differentiators, so places need a
strong sustainable brand to stand out in order to attract people to live, work and play (Zenker
& Martin, 2013). Recently, a significant amount of research has been conducted in better
understanding place branding (Gertner, 2011). The first stage in building a place brand is to
establish the core values of the place; an objective viewpoint including the perspectives of
all community stakeholders is needed in order to capture an independent situation analysis
of the marketplace (Garcia, Gomez, & Molina, 2012; Knapp & Sherwin, 2005; Zenker, 2011).
This involves recognizing not just where a place comes from by defining core values, but also
painting a picture of what the opportunity is for the future–where the destination should
be headed. A case study approach will be used to report the innovative quantitative and
qualitative methods used in developing an awarded winning sustainable place brand – “The
Heart of the Lowcountry”.
Destination Storytelling; New Strategies for the Future of Travel
Rob Holmes
Palacio
16:30 - 17:00
Destination marketing can appear to be a competitive space, but with a growing sustainable
tourism market, it is in the best interest of the industry to work collaboratively across
various stakeholders to promote sustainable destinations. But how do we do this? How do
we effectively and strategically involve multiple stakeholders to reach our ultimate goals
in destination marketing? From tourism boards to tour operators, to NGOs and media,
the common thread in these industry stakeholders is destination storytelling. A great
story resonates with travelers, and can be used as a tool to connect and engage multiple
stakeholders and reach your marketing objectives. Hear from representatives of industry
stakeholders including tourism boards, tour operators, NGOs, and the media and learn how
each stakeholder plays a role in destination marketing. See how stakeholder collaboration
around tourism stories supports the sustainable tourism industry as a whole, and identify your
role as a stakeholder within destination marketing.
Marketing Turistico
To be announced.
Dominic Hamilton
ESTC15 Ecuador
17:00 - 17:30
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 2
THRIVING COMMUNITIES
Breakout Room 1
Moderator: Kelly Galaski
A New Community Model Ecotourism in the Galapagos
16:00 - 16:30
This presentation introduces a new model of community ecotourism in the Galapagos,
where native island residents are the protectors of their fragile ecosystem by promoting
community managed ecotourism on the island, creating opportunities for residents previously
left completely out of the marine-based tourism economy in Galapagos. Building on G
Adventures, Planeterra, and Tropic’s proven model working directly with communities to
provide the market and thereby create sustainable livelihoods, this represents an expansion
of the model into the Galapagos in partnership with the local community there. What is the
project? A community association owned and managed ecological campsite on Floreana
Kelly Galaski
island financed through a micro-loan from G Adventures coupled with a grant from Planeterra
to develop a community-based tour operator to manage all island hiking, snorkelling,
kayaking, and other ecotourism activities. Currently, boats land at the beach on Floreana and
walk to the famous “Post Office Bay” and then leave again. The village receives zero benefit
from tourism and therefore does not have much incentive to preserve the island. This project
provides the Floreana residents the opportunity to control tourism to the island, manage the
hikes to Post Office bay, and create opportunities for residents in other activities as well as
providing meals and accommodation to overnight visitors. The model is a multi-dimensional
Jascivan Carvalho
public private partnership that involves many entities. The model demonstrates not only the
need to work collaboratively on these kinds of project but also the effectiveness of involving
the private sector from the beginning of the process of tourism development, from location
identification, design, and implementation.
The Long Run: An Exceptional Journey of Improvement
16:30 - 17:00
Sustainable tourism has a huge untapped potential. Innovations and best practice can be
found in every tourism business across the world. The Long Run supports tourism businesses
seek to go on a journey of continuous improvement in the 4Cs (Conservation, Community,
Culture and Commerce), ensuring that they become and remain industry leaders, charting
the path of excellence in sustainability. Built on the GER® Standard members are not only
minimising their environmental impacts but positively contributing to the wellbeing of the
planet and the people and are harnessing their full economic potential. The presentation
Dr. Anne-Kathrin Zschiegner will offer examples on how LRI members contribute in practice to biodiversity conservation,
community development and cultural stewardship demonstrating the need and value
of continuous innovation and change in their respective areas. The presentation will also
highlight the challenges and opportunities The Long Run is facing along the way. Participant
will have access to the standard and can provide feedback during the conference on what
promises to be one of the most rigorous standard system aiming at conserving nature and
sustaining lively hoods for posterity.
National “Minka” for Community Tourism: A MINTUR Project to Boost
Community Tourism in Rural Ecuador
Carlos Chango Uñog
17:00 - 17:30
Carlos Chango Uñog is a dynamic, entrepreneurial, and optimistic person. He currently is the
Community Tourism advisor for the Ministry of Tourism where he is promoting and developing
community tourism nationwide. He is a professional engaged with endogenous and equitable
growth of communities, people and nationalities in Ecuador. Carlos was born and currently
lives in Chibuleo, an indigenous community located near the city of Ambato, province of
Tungurangua. He has gained experience from working at private development institutions
of Ecuador and overseas as well as the public sector in Ecuador. Carlos earned his BS in
Agricultural Engineering from Zamorano University, Honduras, Central America, and his Master
in Public Administration in International Development from Harvard University. Carlos is also a
certified Coach by The Newfield Network.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 3
CONSERVING BIODIVERSITY
Breakout Room 2
Moderator: Jorge Moller
Metodología de Gestión del Destino en Areas Protegidas
Sebastian Sierra
16:00 - 16:30
Ecuador es un país mega diverso, y una parte significativa de esta riqueza se protege dentro
del PANE. Si bien el objetivo principal de estas áreas es la protección de su biodiversidad,
también concentran muchos de los atractivos naturales y paisajísticos que son parte esencial
de las estrategias de desarrollo turístico del país. El SNAP se encuentra conformado por 50
áreas protegidas; El 16 de enero de 2012 se suscribió el acuerdo ministerial que acuerda
establecer la gratuidad de ingreso a las áreas del Patrimonio Natural del Estado (PANE),
excepto Galápagos. Esta desición política se enmarcó en un momento crítico para dar un giro
sustancial a la gestión y manejo de las áreas protegidas. Medidas como esta, hicieron que se
incremente la visitación a las áreas protegidas en un porcentaje de 37,70%. En el año 2013
las visitas alcanzaron el 1.241.834, creciendo un 19,70% con relación al año anterior. En este
contexto, el Ministerio del Ambiente desarrolla la presente metodología con un plan piloto
de 10 áreas en las tres regiones del Ecuador, que busca el brindar las herramientas necesarias
que contribuyan a una gestión integrada del manejo del destino y planificación de la actividad
en el SNAP. Un componente importante de la metodología constituye su plan de manejo
de visitantes que establece un equilibrio entre la planificación de uso público (espacio de
conservación) y la expectativa del visitante.
Contar con una metodología genérica que contribuya a la identificación y ordenamiento de
la actividad turística en función del valor de sus recursos naturales considerando factores
ecológicos, físicos, sociales, económicos y culturales e impactando de forma positiva a la
experiencia del visitante. Usuarios La metodología esta diseñada para el uso de todos los
actores vinculados con la actividad turística, como funcionarios públicos, prestadores de
servicios turísticos, comunidades y otros actores que formen parte de la gestión del turismo
dentro del SNAP Alcance El contenido de la metodología incluye aspectos de:
• Desarrollo y contenido de la línea base para turismo.
• Identificación de atractivos actuales y potenciales.
• Identificación del perfil de visitantes.
• Zonificación del área de recreación y uso público.
• Herramientas de gestión y ordenamiento turístico y su Aplicación: ROVAP, LAC, CC.
• Normas de compartimiento del visitante y del personal del ANP, y de ser el caso de las
comunidades que se encuentran asentadas en la zona de recreación y uso público.
• Conjunto de indicadores que permiten evaluar y determinar los impactos positivos y
negativos de la actividad turística sobre el atractivo, estableciendo acciones y medidas que
contribuyan a la gestión y manejo controlado del turismo.
• Monitoreo y toma de decisiones y acciones en base a herramientas que nos permita evaluar
el impacto de la actividad turística.
El desarrollo de la metodología responde a la necesidad de contar con un esquema de
planificación y gestión del destino y de la actividad turística en las áreas protegidas, con un
trabajo conjunto entre MAE, el Servicio Forestal de los Estados Unidos (USFS) y Rainforest
Alliance.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Modelo De Gestión Turística De Áreas Protegidas Del Pane En El Ecuador
Zornitza Aguilar
16:30 - 17:00
El Ministerio del Ambiente del Ecuador ejecuta el Proyecto de Sostenibilidad Financiera para
el Sistema Nacional de Áreas Protegidas (SNAP), la cual cuenta con asistencia del Programa
de las Naciones Unidas para el Desarrollo (PNUD) y es financiado por el Fondo para el Medio
Ambiente Mundial (GEF). El objetivo del Proyecto a largo plazo es mejorar la sostenibilidad
financiera del SNAP de forma que proporcione resultados de desarrollo por medio de un
ambiente saludable y sostenible. El Proyecto centra sus esfuerzos en:
• El desarrollo de un marco normativo que facilite mecanismos de sostenibilidad financiera a
las AP.
• El fortalecimiento de capacidades institucionales y locales.
• La revitalización del aporte de las AP a la economía del Estado.
• La implementación de casos de negocios exitosos en las AP.
Con la finalidad de mejorar la gestión de la actividad turística y potenciar los beneficios
económicos, sociales, ambientales en las áreas protegidas del Ecuador, a través del Proyecto
de Sostenibilidad Financiera de Áreas Protegidas del SNAP se promueve la generación
de mecanismos financieros. Estos mecanismos están fundamentados en los criterios de
mercado, encadenamiento productivo, potencial de la oferta, desarrollo social, protección
de los recursos de la biodiversidad, entre otros factores que permitan su sostenibilidad en el
mediano y largo plazos. Ente estos se encuentran: el Mecanismo de Fondos Concursables,
Modelos de Gestión de Refugios de Alta Montaña y sitios específicos en AP, Estrategia de
Mercadeo y Comercialización para los Productos PUNTO VERDE, estudios de valorización de
servicios turísticos, entre otros. Las iniciativas cuentan con participación de instituciones
públicas, privadas y de la sociedad civil, que permiten fortalecer las acciones a favor de la
conservación y preservación de los recursos naturales.
Experiencias de Turismo Sostenible en el Distrito Metropolitano de Quito
Patricio Gaybor
17:00 - 17:30
Patricio Gaybor holds a Masters Degree in Ecotourism and Natural Areas Management. He
coordinated the design of the “Marketing Plan for Tourism in Ecuador 2010-2014”. Mr. Gaybor
is the current President of the Millennium Green Foundation, and has taught seminars
on the value chain and packaging of tourism products for domestic tourism, ecotourism
management best practices, best practices in ecotourism, and community tourism in
protected areas, among others. In 2009 he was the Strategic Marketing Director at the
Ministry of Tourism. Mr. Gaybor has also been a facilitator and Professor at the Universidad
de Especialidades Turísticas UCT, The Universidad de las Amércias, and the Universidad
Tecnológica Equinoccial. He has acted as General Manager for the Empresa Metropolitana
de Turismo “Quito Turismo” and is currently the Technical Manager of Public Utility Tourism
Destination Management “Quito Turismo”.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 4
ECOTOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM EDUCATION
Moderator: D’Arcy Dornan
Breakout Room 3
Sustainable Tourism Education and Training: Management Strategies
for Learning in the Public and Private Sectors and in NGOs
16:00 - 16:45
There are an ever growing number of sustainable tourism education models available globally.
Those developed and offered by institutions of higher education and elsewhere in the private
and public sector and nongovernmental organizations.
Dr. D’Arcy Dornan
Randy Durbin
This panel discussion will look at, identify, present and discuss who these organizations are,
what they are doing, why, where, with whom and how. This panel can be viewed as a follow
up to the ESTC2014 workshop for teachers which addressed the issues of incorporating
ecotourism and sustainable tourism into the curriculum. That workshop provided grade school
teachers with tools to plan curriculum in conservation, social justice, governmental, and
economic drivers of ecotourism and sustainable tourism.
This panel presentation will present and discuss sustainable tourism guidelines and standards,
training, technical assistance, and educational programs and resources which have the
objective of helping to increase an individual’s, organization’s and or destinations potentials
through new projects and outreach initiatives, as well as through policy and global sustainable
tourism education initiatives.
Dr. Kelly Bricker
Geotourism Supporting Education
To be announced.
Douglas McMeekin
ESTC15 Ecuador
16:45 - 17:30
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 5
EMPOWERMENT THROUGH ECOTOURISM
Breakout Room 4
Moderator: D’Arcy Dornan
Poverty Alleviation and Community Empowerment Through Ecotourism:
A Case Study in Colombia
16:00 - 16:30
Tourism is a human activity with worldwide growth prospects. Consistently and throughout
the years, tourism has proven to generate benefit to stakeholders participating in the
industry’s value chain. According to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism in
Colombia, tourism is the third most important sector in the country’s economy; it contributed
over US$4.758 million in foreign-revenues in 2013; and has grown over 7.34% during the
first 10 months of 2014. In contrast to this evidence and according to Colombia’s National
Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE), about 20% of Colombians live below the
poverty line and almost 6% live without the basic means for subsistence (2005). This case
Natalia Naranjo
study trefers to an inspiring process, where a community located in one of Colombia’s most
deprived regions turned to tourism to find alternatives to improve their social and economic
conditions. in El Carlos, a community located in the municipality of Necoclí, poverty and
misery doubles the rest of the country: 47% of its population lives below poverty levels and
20% live below the subsistence level or unsatisfied basic needs (NBI). The context of economic
poverty in Colombia goes hand-in-hand with the adverse historical conditions generated by
the ‘conflict’ (an ongoing low-intensity asymmetric war between the Colombian government,
paramilitary groups, crime syndicates and left-wing guerrilla fighting each other to increase
influence in Colombia). In Necoclí - a region endowed with a wealth of natural and cultural
riches - a number of public and private entities and the local communities joined in pursuit of
sustainable economic development through tourism; public and other subsidy mechanisms
and investments were put to work generating a productive project that would also assist
Colombian’s ‘demobilization campaign” to eradicate illegal armed forces. Supported by the
UN’s Office on Drugs Program and Colombian’s Crime and Prosperity Department, El Carlos
cooperative was founded in 2006; it began a process to establish an ecotourism center. After
eight years of associative voluntary work this initiative has served over 20 families. It has
integrated to the supply chain local people working on food production, fishing, handicrafts;
local tour operators, transportation services and others. This presentation will showcase the
experience of women, youth and men striving for social change and empowerment through
tourism.
Retos del Ecoturismo en la Región Andina
To be announced.
16:30 - 17:00
David Parra
Imagined Geographies: Visualizing Digital Footprints of Co-Existing
Ecotourism Models and Meanings in the Galapagos Islands
To be announced.
Ana Maria Quiros
ESTC15 Ecuador
16:30 - 17:00
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
TUESDAY April 28
Session 6
SUSTAINABLE DESTINATIONS
Breakout Room 5
Moderator: Mercedes Hunt
The Good Company: An Examination of Cases Exemplifying
Positive Change through Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism
Pamela Lanier
16:00 - 16:45
Our panel examines tourism and hospitality based companies around the globe that are
effecting positive change through sustainability in accordance with the United Nation’s
goals for future sustainable development. The presentersv are co-authors of a textbook, “The
Good Company: Tourism, Wine and Hospitality” to be published in 2015 which examines
best practices in this sector. This book is about good companies that are leading examples
of sustainable business practices in the various areas of the tourism, hospitality and wine
industries.
Good companies seek to heal the world. We will demonstrate how these companies are
leading the industry in environmental efforts such as ensuring availability and sustainable
management of water and sanitation, and the use of sustainable and modern energy such as
wind and solar systems. We will demonstrate how these companies are promoting sustained
economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work. All are showing that
following these principles results in profitable sustainable organizations.
Heather Gordy
Investigadon Mintur
To be announced.
Sergio Guerra
ESTC15 Ecuador
16:45 - 17:30
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
THURSDAY April 30
Session 1
THRIVING COMMUNITIES
Breakout Room 1
Cultural Humility and Well-Being: Conversations from Fiji’s Interior Highlands
Moderator: Jeremy Schultz
Dr. Jeremy Schultz
9:30 - 10:00
Since the paradigm of sustainability entered the tourism industry in the 1980’s, research is
continuing to help us understand its intricacies. As a social, economic, and environmental
phenomenon, ecotourism requires constant monitoring, informed participation from all
stakeholders, and a high quality of product (UNWTO, 2014). Ecotourism has proven itself
as a model of economic viability in developing countries around the world. As part of an
economic system, ecotourism also proudly adheres to an imperative ethical system that
facilitates the conservation of inimitable communities and delicate ecologies. As an industry,
ecotourism prides itself as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment
and improves the well-being of local people” (TIES, 2014). Within this definition, there is an
abundance of discussion regarding the ecologies of peoples that provide the resources, both
human and physical. Understanding their shared group characteristics while honoring their
unique qualities as individuals’ aid in responsible ecotourism development that provides a
sense of well-being for the communities involved.
The purpose of this research was to examine how the effects of ecotourism are translated
through indigenous perspectives of culture and well-being within Fiji’s interior highlands.
In particular, focus groups were conducted in three villages located on Fiji’s largest island,
Viti Levu. Each village is associated with an ecotourism operator that provides white water
rafting and cultural experiences. The rafting company has also pursued various conservation
initiatives for the rivers and villages associated with the business. These efforts include a
nationally recognized conservation area and a Ramsar classification for the Upper Navua River
as an international wetlands of importance. As a conceptual framework, cultural humility is a
fairly new way of discussing cultural diversity. Briefly, cultural humility challenges the notion
that cultural “competence” can ever be achieved (Ortega & Faller, 2011). Rather, it suggests
that a “humility” be incorporated, moving away from traditional monolithic approaches,
recognizing the positionality of the researcher. Cultural humility is based on self-awareness,
openness, and transcendence. Such characteristics lend perfectly to helping researchers
understand the well-being of research participants while recognizing cultural differences. In
discussing the conversations associated with this research, cultural humility is introduced as
a framework to more fully appreciate the unique perspectives of the participants within the
Fijian villages.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
THURSDAY April 30
Community Based Ecotourism in the Brazilian Amazon - Arapiuns River Network
10:00 - 10:30
The study was carried out to discuss the importance of the shared management for income
generation and increasing of the benefits obtained from the activity. Community based
ecotourism can contribute to the strategies of environmental conservation and cultural
strengthening, promoting the social organization and the local economic development in the
region of Arapiuns River, west of Para State, in the Brazilian Amazon. The landscape features,
identified from the convergence of environmental and sociocultural aspects, represent an
enormous potential that has been more and more explored. The natural elements of the
landscape are attractions that have promoted the fast increasing of the tourists flow around
Marcio Halla
the region. The perspectives of empowering sustainable tourism practices depends of
giving value to the social and cultural diversity. Community ecotourism is an activity that
has happened around with different approaches and dynamics. It depends on huge efforts
to consolidate an effective local development strategy, to stimulate social organization and
collaborative management, and to ensure the environmental conservation, keeping the forest
alive.
The focus of the study is to launch a practical and objective approach, to create stimulating
arrangements and involve the local communities and organizations; to strengthening
collaboration networks. This study presents, at the beginning, the local territorial context, and
then the territorial ordering strategies. First the presence of the state and the articulations
between the local stakeholders. So we observe and give value to the local process that
are been successful. As long as I have followed this processes, facilitated by people who
know the Amazon very deeply, I can observe this is one of the most important cultural
manifestations in the region. The cultural identity features are approached from the many
handicraft experiences around the region. In the second part we have raised perceptions
and testimonials, based in primary and secondary data. The social entrepreneurial approach
is given with the main focus on the owners of a brand new place to live! Some realistic
perspectives are shared to ensure the positive impact of the study over the local context,
based on the actual possibilities for the implementation of the processes. We have raised
perceptions and testimonials, based in primary and secondary data. We expect these elements
will serve as a solid basis for spreading out the word about the importance of the community
organization and the shared management by them.
Zabalo: Lessons in Community Based Ecotourism
10:30 - 11:00
The Cofan people of Zabalo, under the leadership of Randy Borman, were among the first
communities to begin to develop a nature-based tourism as a response to both economic and
cultural needs. Since its beginning in 1978, Zabalo’s tourism has experienced both ups and
downs, as it has faced territorial issues, expansion of western industry, outside security threats,
internal dissension, and other hurdles.
Randall Borman
This presentation will discuss the community response to increasingly complex government
regulations and escalating demands on the part of an evolving and comfort-loving public as
yet another hurdle in a long list of hurdles that this community has faced as it continues to
lead the field in community-based ecotourism. It will also address Zabalo’s commitment to
both conservation and education as part of a cultural adaptation process based on tourism.
Zabalo continues to be a point of reference for how a community really makes a tourism
program happen. Its experiences, ranging from how to form a business to the use of tourism
as economic backing for territorial claims, continue to form a body of examples which can
be widely applied across the world. As Zabalo gears up for another round in the field, its
experiences can serve both to caution and to motivate others.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
THURSDAY April 30
Session 2
BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AND COMMUNITIES
Moderator: Natalia Naranjo
Breakout Room 2
Utilizing Nature as a Competitive Advantage
9:30 - 10:00
The presentation will expose some of the efforts from public and private tourism sector to
develop new tourism products based on the richness of nature in Ecuador like a competitive
factor and innovation. This richness includes landscapes, flora, fauna and ecosystems. The aim
is to see how institutions, research, entrepreneurs, and nature lovers had have the capability to
support and / or to move beyond business as usual.
Mónica Elizabeth Burbano
Montalvo
The Cochasqui Project
Paul Sevilla
10:00 - 10:30
GAD Pichincha (Cochasqui Project) El Parque Cochasquí en un sitio en donde se encuentran
vestigios arqueológicos pre-incas 400 -1500 DC. ubicado a 40 kilómetros al norte de Quito
es uno de los principales referentes de los pueblos que se acentaron en el territorio norte del
Ecuador. El desarrollo de alternativas productivas innovadoras y que permitan generar valor
agregado resulta necesario en este sitio en donde sulos pobres y sin agua para riego hacen de
la agricultura una actividad poco rentable y sacrificada. La organización local con apoyo de los
gobiernos locales, intermedios y nacional empieza a rendir frutos en el sector del turismo. El
desarrollo de nueva infraestructura y facilidades turísticas ceran espectativas en la población y
consecuentemente nuevos servicios turísticos se estan implantando. el posicionar a cochasquí
y sus alrededores como un destino turistico a nivel nacional e internacional en donde se el
turismo sea la principal actividad económica y que exista una justa y equitativa redistribución
de las ganancias sin afectar el patrimonio natural y culturalde es el reto que se plantea por
parte de todos los involucrados en esta actividad productiva que se presneta como nueva el
territorio.
Tourism, Community Needs, and Protected Areas:
Case Study Chobe National Park
10:30 - 11:00
In the developing world, tourism resources are mainly hosted by protected areas (PAs) in the
form of wildlife and wilderness. In the beginning of their demarcation and development,
PAs were notoriously known for their extensive resource separation and economic hardships
for rural communities. However, the realization that PAs have the potential to host tourism
and improve communities’ livelihoods, led to a reversal of roles; they now play conservation
and development roles. PAs acceptance of the tourism industry requires adaptation to new
situations and challenges that come with this conservation and development evolution nexus.
In the context of this paper, the community capital framework (CCF) is used to understand the
Moren Stone
stock and flow among community capitals as a result of the interaction between protected
areas, tourism and community livelihoods, and how the impacts of these stock and flow affect
the system. The paper assesses how enhancements in community capitals through tourism
have influenced changes in community needs that in turn have influenced the character of
PAs. The results provide insights into the dynamics of biodiversity conservation, tourism and
community livelihoods which are essential to planners and policy makers in their quest to
devise adaptability measures in PAs.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
THURSDAY April 30
Session 3
SUSTAINABLE DESTINATIONS AND COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT Breakout Room 3
Moderator: D’Arcy Dornan
Self-organisation in Tourism Destinations: A Research Design
to Study Dynamics of Planning and Tourism Governance in Santa Elena, Ecuador
9:30 - 10:00
The concept is a new model of community ecotourism in the Galapagos, where native island
residents are the protectors of their fragile ecosystem by promoting community managed
ecotourism on the island, creating opportunities for residents previously left completely out of
the marine-based tourism economy in Galapagos.
Carla Ricaurte
Building on G Adventures, Planeterra, and Tropic’s proven model working directly with
communities to provide the market and thereby create sustainable livelihoods, this represents
an expansion of the model into the Galapagos in partnership with the local community
there. The model presented is a multi-dimensional public private partnership that involves
many entities such as; government through the Ministry of Tourism; collaboration between
multiple NGOs such as WWF, Prince Foundation and Planeterra Foundation; the private
sector in G Adventures and Tropic’s owner/founder; and the local community managed by
Jascivan Carvalho’s non-profit consulting arm, Waponi and the Floreana Community Tourism
Committee. The model demonstrates not only the need to work collaboratively on these kinds
of project but also the effectiveness of involving the private sector from the beginning of the
process of tourism development, from location identification, design, and implementation.
The Potential of Ecotourism to Subvert cCommunity Gender Orders:
Focus on Botswana
10:00 - 10:30
Tourism is often identified for its subversive potential, its ability to change the behaviors of
locals (whether positively or negatively). This type of subversive discourse is very apparent
when discussing tourism - alternative forms of tourism like ecotourism in particular. There is
much discussion circulating how such tourism has the ability to alleviate poverty and improve
livelihoods but could this discourse be overstated?
Claudia Hirtenfelder
This presentation discusses and analyses the international discourses of ecotourism’s ability
to subvert while locating it within the Botswana’s experience. Furthermore, it zones in on the
ability of ecotourism to subvert ‘traditional’ and ‘rural’ gender orders which have, through
a parallel discourse, often been associated with the exacerbation of poverty. That is, the
subversive potential of ecotourism certainly comes to the fore when authors discuss the
feminization of the industry and how such work exposes women to alternative gender orders
(involving gender practices, relations, identities, and roles). Botswana’s National Ecotourism
Strategy (NES) made similar presuppositions. Using the dominant and dichotomous discourses
from how Motswana life and labor are structured as well as those for how labor within the
camp itself is arranged, this presentation will discuss whether the gender order of the camp
goes anyway in subverting that of the village (and Motswana more broadly). It finds that
the camp does little in this regard which requires some contemplation about the discourses
circulating ecotourism’s subversion potential.
Guidelines for Sustainable Tourism: Beach Area Investigation
10:30 - 11:00
This presentation focuses on the process of creating of guidelines for sustainable tourism uses
based on the biotic, physical and socio-economic analysis of beach areas by Albán, Aguayo,
Argudo, Calles, Cervantes, Gavilanes, Ricaurte, Suárez and Veintimilla.
Nadia Argudo Guevara
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
THURSDAY April 30
Session 4
SUSTAINING ECUADOR!
Moderator: Evelyn Garcia
Breakout Room 4
Galapagos: Managing Visitors in the Galapagos Islands: Monitoring and Reporting
Public Use as a Key Element of Park Management and Sustainable Tourism 9:30 - 10:00
This is a co-presentation by Juan Carlos Izurieta and Eddy Silva.
Juan Carlos Izurieta
Eddy Silva
Conservación y Desarrollo, Ecuador 10:00 - 10:30
To be announced.
José Valdiviseo
To be announced.
To be announced.
Carlos Gallardo
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
THURSDAY April 30
Session 5
ECOTOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES
Moderator: Mercedes Hunt
Breakout Room 5
Maximizing Local Economic Benefits while Enhancing Sustainable
Infrastructure Development
9:30 - 10:15
This session will provide practical strategies and tools for implementing sustainable best
practices within the tourism industry. The panelists represent key sectors of the industry,
including facilities and destinations, MICE, tour operators, and the planner perspectives.
Together they will offer insights through case studies, systems of implementation, an overview
of tools, and introduction to various standards and certifications currently being utilized within
the industry throughout the world.
Mercedes Hunt
Jorge Moller Rivas
Areas of focus to be addressed include: staff management, communication, resource
management: waste, energy, and water consumption, air quality, procurement, community
engagement.
Case studies will provide practical areas and strategy for implementation, as well as lessons
learned and opportunities for improvement. By having representation from these various
sectors of the industry, the panelists will also be able to provide insights on how to collaborate
effectively to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes for destinations, communities, and other
key stakeholders.
The Synergies Between Tourism Expansion and Development: An Analysis
of Economic Growth, Poverty and Human Development in Ecuador
Manuel Rivera
10:15 - 11:00
This study attempts to answer the question of what has been the effect of tourism expansion
and development in Ecuador. We analyze, both theoretically and empirically, the relationship
between tourism and development. There have been an enormous number of studies
explaining how tourism can affect the various dimensions of development. Despite the many
definitions, this study conceptualizes development as the ability to promote economic growth,
reduce poverty, and enhance the capabilities of individuals. Results suggest that Ecuador is in
HD lopsided situation when it comes to economic growth and human development. Finally,
the relationship between tourism and economic growth is bi-directional; the expansion of
either sector promotes the growth of the other.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
THURSDAY April 30
Session 6
ECOTOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM GUIDELINES
AND CERTIFICATION
Moderator: Kristin Lamoureaux
Developing the First World Adventure Destination Travel Index:
A Policy and Communication Platform Fostering Cross-Cultural Exchanges
Palacio
9:30 - 10:00
How do consumers become aware of the potential one country has to offer? More importantly,
how do consumers compare one alternative destination with another?
Dr. Kristin Lamoureaux
In what could be described as a high-involvement decision process, consumers seeking to
travel on vacation to a foreign destination have to sift through many information pieces, not
easy to summarize, and certainly not easily comparable, but often compiled by biased travel
intermediaries and complemented by Internet and personal search. Consumer decision can be
facilitated by third party endorsement or assessment (e.g., American Automobile Association,
J.D. Power, Michelin Guides), yet countries are rarely ranked has destinations, and when they
are the ranking correlates highly with economic indices such as GDP per capita, or other
macro-economic indices.
Developing countries are at a disadvantage, even if they have a unique position to hold in a
niche market such as adventure travel. Throughout the globe, tourism is often touted as an
important contributor to economic growth. However, at the same time, tourism may also pose
serious threats to the social and environmental conditions of a destination. Thus, significant
discussion has occurred regarding the role governments might play in the identification
and development of tourism at a national and local level (e.g. Butler, 1999, McKercher, 1999;
Farrell & Twining-Ward, 2004). Scholars and professionals have debated the benefits and
consequences of many types of tourism development (Lu, J. & Nepal, S.K., 2009). Large-scale,
mass tourism can bring a great influx of tourists to a destination but returns may be small
compared to the impacts this type of tourism may bring. Smaller-scale, niche specific tourism
may be more sustainable and lessen potential impacts from tourism, but are often cited as
lacking sufficient market-size to warrant strategic policy intervention. Key to the tourism
debate is the issue of what type of tourism development is most advantageous for a specific
destination. The competitive advantage a nation might hold over others in the tourism area is
dependent upon the natural and cultural resources already existing in the destinations, as well
as the overall management of those aspects important to the various tourism markets.
The focus of this research is to develop a means of measuring the competitive advantage
a country might have in a specific niche area. In this case, the niche chosen was adventure
tourism, an area that continues to experience significant growth in demand. However, the
purpose of this model, the Adventure Tourism Development Index (ATDI), was not to focus
only on developing a tool that could assist national governments in the identification,
development and management of an alternative tourism strategy for the destination, but also
to create a support for destination branding and consumer communication. The ADTI aims
to discriminate itself from other indicators of economics wealth and economic development,
and allows fair representation from a maximum number of countries. In that spirit the ADTI
might become a driver for consumer awareness and decision making in what may be a global
communication warfare opened only to a selective number of wealthy countries.
ESTC15 Ecuador
BREAKOUT SESSION SCHEDULE
THURSDAY April 30
Q-Calidad 10:00 - 10:30
To be announced.
Christian Mera
Application of Sustainability Indicators for Coastal Destinations in Indonesia:
The Extended SUSTAIN/QualityCoast System
Kathrin Pape
10:30 - 11:00
When applying European Indicator sets in the coastal destinations of developing countries
as Indonesia, many challenges arise during the assessment and the evaluation of the results.
In Indonesia particularly tourism to remote areas and local communities increased above
average in the last 25 years. Indicator sets to measure sustainability in coastal destinations
can be a successful tool to support these communities, which are currently struggling to keep
up with rapid environmental, social, and economic changes. In scattered regions throughout
Indonesia Integrated Coastal Zone Management processes have been described, but these
reports are still lacking transparent and comparable data on indicators that can be easily
collected by local communities. The European SUSTAIN/QualityCoast indicator sets were
intended to measure sustainable development in coastal areas on local and regional levels and
to support local communities with strategic planning tools. But how well can indicator sets,
developed for European coastal destinations, be transferred to developing countries?
The information gathered through the application of the indicator set was used to analyse
the current state of sustainability in the two destinations, and to evaluate the similarities
and disparities of the study areas. During the assessment of this indicator system in two
contrasting study areas in Indonesia it became clear, that adjustments and additional
indicators that are specific to the destinations/ countries are needed. Major weaknesses of
the indicator sets concerned data availability and methodological problems, as indicators are
included that are unknown in Indonesia and for which no data exists.
Other important sustainability indicators in Indonesia were not sufficiently represented in the
applied system. The influence of local communities on the sustainability scores is low, as most
of the strategic plans are made on a regional or national government level, and participation
of residents is hindered by, among other reasons, poverty, illiteracy, and insufficient basic
infrastructure. Financial and human resources are severely limited in developing countries. The
QualityCoast Award, connected to the indicator set, needs to supplement incomes to a great
extent to be considered seriously by local actors. Since the indicator set was only applied in
two destinations, it is important to highlight the need for further research and case studies in
developing countries. The cultural background of the evaluators has a great influence on the
results.
Further case studies in developing countries and discussions about results are suggested for
the adjustments of European Indicator sets. Assessments by local actors could provide useful
information on gaps, disparities and further recommendations. Despite major weaknesses,
the indicator set can initiate discussions and raise awareness about sustainable development
matters in developing countries. The sustainability rates generated by this study are less
important than the application process itself, as they not only point out the strengths and
weaknesses of these coastal destinations, but also the positive and negative effects of the
SUSTAIN/QualityCoast system when applied in Indonesia.
ESTC15 Ecuador
ECODESTINATIONS! DO NOT MISS YOUR CHANCE TO BID
ON THESE AMAZING TRIPS!
All participants of ESTC15 will have the opportunity to offer bids
at the auction and silent auction for the following incredible experiences!
Welcome to TIES ecoAuction Spring 2015! We firmly believe that one of the best ways to unite conservation, communities and
sustainable travel is to get out there and travel! That’s why we’re offering seven amazing experiences to destinations such as
Ecuador, Peru, Australia, Belize, Costa Rica and Fiji. Below you’ll find a description of each organization sponsoring the trip as
well as more information about itineraries.
To view auction items online, visit
www.ecotourism.org/ecoauction
If you didn’t see anything that got you dreaming, check back daily for more EXCLUSIVE chances to bid EARLY on
incredible world travel hosted by TIES members and only offered to Friends of TIES! By April 15th we’ll have made
over 15 unique and unforgettable travel options available to Friends of TIES. Bid now and get them first.
Each of the one-in-a-lifetime trips featured below was generously donated by TIES members. Each item is for two people
unless otherwise noted, airfare is not included unless otherwise noted. To learn more about TIES membership, please contact
us at [email protected]. If you’re interested in donating an item for an upcoming auction or sponsoring ESTC15 in
Quito, Ecuador, please contact us at [email protected].
Items Available for Auction:
Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort
Belize
http://www.www.hamanasi.com/
Discover the best of Belize on and offshore! Nestled between Belize’s rich reefs and lush rainforest, Hamanasi is a boutique eco
beach resort specializing in romance, adventure and award-winning customer service. Immerse yourself in Hamanasi’s casual
elegance which displays Belizean hardwood furniture, locally crafted art, Caribbean fusion cuisine and a warm welcoming
staff.
Finca Esperanza Verde
Nicaragua
http://fincaesperanzaverde.com/
As part organic coffee farm and part tourist lodge, Finca Esperanza Verde is a unique experiment in ecotourism and local
empowerment. The finca sits prominently on the edge of a quiet country road at 4000 ft (1200 mts) above sea level, providing
spectacular views of the Dariense mountain range and the green valley of Matagalpa far below. The farm provides local
Nicaraguans with profitable and sustainable ways to share their culture with visiting tourists and has received international
recognition as a model of poverty alleviation through sustainable tourism and other socially responsible programs.
ESTC15 Ecuador
ECODESTINATIONS! DO NOT MISS YOUR CHANCE TO BID
ON THESE AMAZING TRIPS!
All participants of ESTC15 will have the opportunity to offer bids
at the auction and silent auction for the following incredible experiences!
La Cusinga Ecolodge
Costa Rica
http://www.lacusingalodge.com/
Tucked away in a private reserve of over 600 acres, this La Cusinga provides guests with sweeping Pacific Ocean views,
sandy beaches, natural pools, and the chance to experience the burgeoning forests and astonishing wildlife of the
country’s most famous ecosystem, the Osa Peninsula. The hotel offers ten beautiful ocean view cabins designed with
sustainably-harvested wood and local materials to maximize comfort while minimizing impact on the environment.
Cosmopolitan Adventure Tours
Worldwide
http://www.cosmopolitanadventuretours.com/
With over 40 years of planning custom arranged itineraries for a demanding clientele, we will skillfully craft your
journey down to the very last detail. Whether combining a couple of countries or booking the best table at that special
restaurant our guides and contacts will introduce you to the hidden beauty of their destination. At Cosmopolitan
Adventure Tours, we’re mindful of the ecological impact of our arrangements. By using only local operators and guides,
we contribute directly to their economic well-being and benefit from their in- depth knowledge which allows our clients
to have exceptional cultural interactions with the native culture and her people.
Talanoa Treks
Fiji
http://talanoa-treks-fiji.com/
Escape the beach and discover the true heart of Fiji. You may know Fiji for its corals and coast, but venture inland and
you’ll find yourself in a landscape of dramatic peaks, pristine forests, sparkling rivers, remote villages and unique history.
This four-day adventure for 1 person is in partnership with the communities you visit to reduce its impact and maximise
its benefits. By experiencing Fiji on foot you get a unique insight into the vibrant traditional culture that underpins daily
life in the hills. You’ll experience genuine Fijian hospitality and leave with friends and memories that last long after the
blisters have healed!
ESTC15 Ecuador
ECODESTINATIONS! DO NOT MISS YOUR CHANCE TO BID
ON THESE AMAZING TRIPS!
All participants of ESTC15 will have the opportunity to offer bids
at the auction and silent auction for the following incredible experiences!
Casa Divina Lodge
Ecuador
http://mindocasadivina.com/
Casa Divina Lodge is located 1.2 km (3/4 mi.) outside the town of Mindo in the cloud forests of Ecuador, South America.
Mindo is not only known for its numerous bird population (around 500 different species in the area) but also its passion for
the conservation of its pristine rivers and mountains.
Inka Natura
Peru
http://www.inkanatura.com
Escape into the jungles of Peru with Inka Natura and enjoy the beauty of Heath River Wildlife Nature Center, guided hikes
thru the jungle, canoe trips down the Madre de Dios River and a stay at Sandoval Lake Lodge.
Kosrae Village
Micronesia
http://www.kosraevillage.com/
Kosrae is remote and romantic high island in the South Pacific, blessed with cloud and rain forests as well as incredible
mangroves, pristine reefs and some of the most generous people in the world. Onsight there is an excellent PADI 5 Star
Dive Center with nitrox, and the only tec diving on Kosrae. Kosrae Village is intended to emulate an ancient Kosraean
Village.
ESTC15 Ecuador
ECODESTINATIONS! DO NOT MISS YOUR CHANCE TO BID
ON THESE AMAZING TRIPS!
All participants of ESTC15 will have the opportunity to offer bids
at the auction and silent auction for the following incredible experiences!
O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat
Australia
http://www.oreillys.com.au/
For over 100 years, the O’Reilly family has been offering unparalleled Gold Coast Hinterland accommodation in World
Heritage listed Lamington National Park. Escape to a world of ancient forest, fresh mountain air, crystal clear creeks and
breathtaking sunsets only a short drive from the City of Gold Coast. Experience the magic of the subtropical rainforest with
160kms of walking trails, over 500 waterfalls and 250 species of unique Australian wildlife right outside your door. Connect
with nature at its best and with each other.
Open Hearted Transformation
Australia
http://www.openheartedtransformation.com.au/
This is a very special private Retreat, a place to relax, recharge and dream…Here is a place where time slows right down,
where daydreaming is as important as focusing, where platypus, fish and ducks meet you in the water and lyrebirds
and echidnas pass you on forest walks. Its a place to do nothing at all...or many things including the Warburton Rail Trail
(stretching 30km from Melbourne), bush trails, river walks, picnics, swimming in summer and snow-play up on Mt Donna
Buang in Winter. Nature lovers, bird watchers, painters, photographers and exercise movers will love the myrtle beech
rainforests, including the 300 year old Ada Tree, a tall mountain ash and one of the world’s largest known flowering trees.
Hiliya Resort
India
http://www.hiliyaresort.com/
From the snowy valleys of the Himalayas to the confluence of the oceans in the peninsular tip, the land of the Rishis and
Maharajahs has been a destination for all kinds of people at all times. The settlers, the conquerors, and those who came
to experience the mysticism of the land left over centuries their footmarks on the soil creating a socio-cultural fabric that
covers this vast landscape in myriad patterns, awesome in their diversity. We welcome you to this great land.
ESTC15 Ecuador
ECODESTINATIONS! DO NOT MISS YOUR CHANCE TO BID
ON THESE AMAZING TRIPS!
All participants of ESTC15 will have the opportunity to offer bids
at the auction and silent auction for the following incredible experiences!
P.A.P. Corp SA
Greece
http://www.papcorp.com/
P.A.P. Corp, is an environmental-friendly managed hotel company, and an active member of national and international
eco-friendly organizations for the last 30 years. AGIONISSI RESORT is a unique 4 stars hotel on the Amoliani Island, a very
small island in Halkidiki. The typical Greek white and blue bungalows of the hotel are surrounded by greenery, olive trees,
and lemon trees. There are three beaches in front of the hotel, with crystal-clear blue waters. The hotel gets a BLUE FLAG
every year and holds the GREEN KEY Eco Label by the European Community. The cuisine is based on the Mediterranean
diet and the products used are fresh and local.
To view auction items online, visit
www.ecotourism.org/ecoauction
We’ll also be releasing more auctions over the next few days, exclusively to our Friends of TIES.
If you didn’t see anything that got you dreaming, check back daily for more EXCLUSIVE chances to bid EARLY
on incredible world travel hosted by TIES members and only offered to Friends of TIES! By April 15th we’ll have
made over 15 unique and unforgettable travel options available to Friends of TIES. Bid now and get them first.
Each of the one-in-a-lifetime trips featured below was generously donated by TIES members. Each item is for two
people unless otherwise noted, airfare is not included unless otherwise noted. To learn more about TIES membership,
please contact us at [email protected]. If you’re interested in donating an item for an upcoming auction or
sponsoring ESTC15 in Quito, Ecuador, please contact us at [email protected].
ESTC15 Ecuador