Geotourism and Sustainable Development: Douglas McMeekin
The Yachana Foundation, which works in the Amazon region of Ecuador, successfully achieves sustainable development through tourism and education. Geotourism, a term coined by the National Geographic, is tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place - its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents. This is the commitment of the Foundation through the award winning Yachana Lodge. The Lodge, now part of the Foundation, besides being an incredible place for visitors to see and learn about the Amazon, is also a teaching facility for the Yachana Technical High School and an income generator to help support the school. Education, sustainable tourism and protection of the rainforest are all subjects that Douglas McMeekin will bring to his presentation.