Ecotourism in the North Pantanal, Brazil Regional Bases and Subjects for Sustainable Development

• Published in: Chirigaku hyōron Vol. 78; no. 5; pp. 289 - 310
• Main Authors: MARUYAMA, Hiroaki, NIHEI, Takaaki, NISHIWAKI, Yasuyuki
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: The Association of Japanese Geographers 2005
• Subjects: Brazil; eco-lodge; ecotourism; hotel; Pantanal; Transpantaneira
• ISSN: 1347-9555; 2185-1727
• DOI: 10.4157/grj.78.289

The Brazilian Pantanal, the world's largest wetland holding abundant wildlife, has recently drawn profound concern about the development of the tourist industry. To provide significant proposals for ecotourism in the wetland, we believe that detailed data acquired by fieldwork is requisite, This study examines the regional bases that carry regional ecotourism, and attempts to present some proposals for ecotourism from the case of the north Pantanal. The results are shown as follows in order of regional scale. (1) In the water source of the Pantanal, Cerrado region, it is necessary to make efficient plans to control recent agricultural development, especially in soybean and cotton production. (2) On the wetland level, legally protected areas such as national parks and RPPN (Reserva Particular do Patrimônio Natural) should be extended. (3) On the municipal level, environmental subsidies are needed for disused goldmines, and for the maintenance of tourist infrastructures such as Transpantaneira and MT 370. (4) Modern hotels and eco-lodges need to provide ecotourism organized by local people, and to equip the facilities with adequate sewage facilities and garbage recycle plants to preserve the natural environment.