Green travel is becoming a major attraction for travelers who believe in ecotourism and protecting the environment. Many nations, such as Costa Rica, are successfully keeping their countries green and it turns out the Caribbean island of Dominica is also doing its bit.
Sustainable ecotourism in Dominica
Dominica is a beautiful island, nestling in the Caribbean and is making efforts to preserve its natural beauty via an extensive natural park system. In fact, these include the Northern Forest Reserve, the Cabrits National Park and Morne Trois Pitons Natural Park. The latter features a tropical forest that blends with stunning volcanic features and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
However, Dominica’s ecotourism efforts aren’t just on the land, as the island also preserves marine life. Among those watery marine reserves is Douglas Bay Marine Park and Scott’s Head Marine Reserve in Soufriere. The Sea Turtle Conservation Organization in Dominica is actively researching sea turtles while preserving fauna and supporting ecotourism.
What else is the island doing for the environment?
For one thing, Dominica has actively banned “single-use” plastics and Styrofoam throughout the island. Equally important, the island features more than a dozen “eco” lodges and hotels welcoming eco-tourists to stay a while.
Each green property is taking active actions to conserve water, reduce its carbon footprint and install “green” lighting. The hotels serve delicious meals cooked from local organic ingredients and often feature workshops on recycling.
Energy Sustainability in Dominica
Currently, the island produces electricity using fossil fuel imports, along with hydro-electric power. In fact, the Roseau River produces 28 percent of Dominica’s power supply.
However, the government is currently committed to developing renewable energy sources. Besides being greener, this type of energy lowers costs and makes the island energy independent.
Which are the best ecotourism parks to visit?
– Morne Trois Pitons National Park
As mentioned above, Morne Trois Pitons National Park was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1997. Since then, the park has remained untouched and relatively undiscovered by tourism.
A visit to the green primordial rainforests is like stepping back in time as they spread up to the stunning peaks of the island. Here, you will see lush green vegetation, with beautiful colorful flowers and giant ferns. Also of interest is the park’s other natural wonders like the Middleham Falls, Emerald Pool and Titou George.
– Cabrits National Park
Established in 1986, Cabrits National Park measures around 1,313 acres. The beautiful national park spreads across a peninsula, just past the town of Portsmouth.
The national park protects both land and marine life, including tropical; forests, wetlands and coral reefs. Moreover, the national park nestles between two low-rising peaks and extinct volcanoes, making for a stunning view of the beaches below.
Readers can find out more about Dominica’s national parks from the official Discover Dominica website here.
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