INDIGENOUS GUARDIANS TO EDUCATION GUIDES
The project aims to train members of indigenous and rural communities as educational guides for sustainable monitoring of Panama's key watersheds and biological hotspots, transforming them from territorial guardians into certified guides capable of self-financing their conservation efforts through tourism. The project is associated with the Geoversity-supported Diammayala Alliance involving not only indigenous but also rural mestizo communities in the adjoining Mamoní Valley.
The Issue:
The Panama Canal Basin, corresponding to the Embera, Wounaan territories and Gunayala territories, face serious environmental challenges exacerbated by climate change. These include irregular rainfall and rising temperatures leading to water scarcity, deforestation impacting biodiversity and water catchment loss, and the existential threat of rising sea levels and coral reef degradation in Gunayala. These issues not only threaten the ecological balance and local communities but also significantly impact tourism activities in the selected destinations. The attractiveness of these regions for ecotourism is declining due to the loss of natural habitats and biodiversity, essential for attracting tourists. Effective conservation efforts must integrate sustainable practices and consider the cultural and economic needs and values of local communities to mitigate these impacts and sustain educational tourism.
Grant Award Use:
The project will use ATCF funding to support the certification process and provide the necessary equipment and training facilities. The training activities will be based at Centro Mamoní, Geoversity’s research and training facility in the Mamoní Valley Preserve. By leveraging local knowledge and traditional practices, the project aims to create sustainable economic opportunities for these communities, reducing their dependence on external tour operators and funding for conservation activities. It also fosters greater community cohesion and cultural exchange between indigenous peoples and mestizo rural communities, enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation. The educational guides will play a critical role in increasing awareness and appreciation of the unique and real world cultural and natural heritage of the region among tourists, biocultural leadership students promoting responsible and enriching interaction and learning that benefits both visitors and local populations.
What Would a Successful Project Result In?
Final success for this project looks like a self-sustaining model where community members are empowered as educational stewards of their environments, successfully managing and deriving economic benefits from their natural resources without compromising ecological integrity and their culture.
