Through cooperation between the Southeast Reefs Alliance, the Puntacana Group and the German Development Cooperation, GIZ, the bases were strengthened to achieve effective management of the Southeast Reefs Marine Sanctuary (SAMAR) as a protected area. During an event held in Punta Cana, the results obtained by the project “Reefs and recreation: a digital and innovative alliance for the sustainability of coastal areas” were announced.
SAMAR, established in 2009 by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, seeks to conserve marine habitats and environments on the island’s southeastern continental shelf, the second largest protected area in the country. To contribute to this objective, the alliance created between GIZ and Grupo Puntacana carried out actions and efforts to consolidate tourism sustainability in the area that is based on efficient and effective management of the sanctuary.
Svenja Paulino, Director of the Biodiversity and Business Portfolio in Central America and the Dominican Republic, explains: “The only way for us to achieve long-term sustainable tourism is through public-private alliances with actors who not only have the capacity and resources to contribute with this objective, but also the commitment to assume the efforts that this entails. Grupo Puntacana is an example of this, this project is important for GIZ since this company is one of the largest and most diversified in the Dominican Republic and has distinguished itself in the industry for its commitment to sustainability and long-term regional development.”
In the presentation of results achieved by this project that seeks, among other things, the competitiveness of Punta Cana as a world-class tourist destination, actions were highlighted to raise awareness among local actors about the importance of ecosystem services, the promotion of measures for sustainability financial for the sanctuary, and finally the importance of employment and local communities for proper development of the area.
Among the progress achieved by the project, the proposal for a design for a SAMAR financial structure stands out, the participatory development of the Sanctuary Management Plan and a proposal for a Patrol Plan developed with the support of experts from Costa Rica and Honduras. Additionally, a training and awareness program was established that involved teachers, community leaders, fishermen, representatives of the Eastern Alliance and officials from the Ministry of the Environment. Finally, as part of the initiative to promote local development, more than 30 business ideas were identified, covering areas such as nature getaways, sports and outdoor recreation, as well as culture and heritage.
“In our experience, the private sector is positioned to provide solutions to the sustainable management and conservation of coastal-marine resources, particularly in tourism. We are grateful that the GIZ has shown its commitment to working hand in hand with the tourism industry to guarantee a sustainable future,” says Jake Kheel, Vice President of Sustainability at Grupo Puntacana.
The protection of the natural resources of the Arrecifes del Sureste Marine Sanctuary is a task that is achieved through the involvement of all key actors who are directly or indirectly linked to its operation. The collaboration of the private sector and its work together with the public and local sectors seeks not only regional development through sustainable tourism, but also the conservation of ecosystem services on which the economy and life in general depend.