THE CONTRIBUTION OF ECOTURISM TO

THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE

LOCAL COMMUNITY

"Sustainable development is the development that aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs".

World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED)

Although sustainable development was initially meant to be a solution to the ecological crisis caused by intense industrial exploitation of resources and the continued degradation of the environment and therefore seek first the preservation of environmental quality, now expanded concept of quality of life in its complexity, and in it’s economically and socially aspects.

Proceeds obtained from the ecotouristic exploitation of the Iron Gates National Park will be used in first instance, to implement a system that uses "green" energy, innovative and renewable type of energy, instead of traditional energy, that gradually leads to the destruction of this area’s biosphere. Besides the ecological importance of reusing and recovering rubbish, we must also highlight its economic importance, since electricity and heating costs will decrease overwhelming.

The aim is, therefore, to use waste as fuel for generating electricity, and also to implement a domestic heating system by burning waste.

Practically, a new “Bed and breakfast” will be built, and within it a rubbish processing system will be installed, from which electricity will be generated and also thermal heating in winter time. While the costs of such a project are quite high, the results are equal. Not only it is "eco-friendly", but subsequently will lead to lower costs for electricity and heating.

Subsequently, if this ”Bed and Breakfast” is successful, we want to implement such a system also in a hotel, and even more, in the entire tourism industry of this area. Public enlightenment is just one of many possibilities that all the Iron Gates Natural Park local community can enjoy after the implementation of this system.

Another contribution of ecotourism in the sustainable development of the local community, directly applicable on the local population, is organizing training courses for financially disadvantaged locals. Young or adults, able and willing to work, will have the possibility to obtain accreditation in various areas involved in tourism.

Guide, cook, travel manager or “Bed and Breakfast” administrator are just a few skill categories that Iron Gates National Park local community residents can obtain. Courses for personal development and for language and relational skills development are other categories of benefits we offer.

These courses will be offered free of charge and will also contribute greatly to increasing the social inclusion in the area.