What the future looks like
How the destination is being future-forward, and how you can too
When you think of the Dominican Republic, you’re probably imagining bright blue skies, clear waters, pristine beaches, soulful music, and spirited communities. But what if these skies were clouded by severe weather? What if those clear waters turned murky with pollution, the untouched beaches littered with waste, and the vibrant lifestyle faded?
The Dominican Republic, with its idyllic beaches and dense rainforests, is a magnet for sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts. But the island-nation is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
With a population of 11.12 million and a projected milestone of 10 million tourists by the end of 2023, the Caribbean's second-largest nation is at a pivotal moment to face the dual challenge of preserving its natural ecosystems, while catering to an ever-growing number of visitors.
Tourism is a significant economic driver, contributing 11.6% to the country’s GDP. By harnessing the power of environmental consciousness, the Dominican Republic has put into place an ambitious plan to promote the coexistence of tourism and environmental stewardship, and actively emerge as a leader in sustainable tourism
“By 2030, the Dominican Republic will be the leading country in the Caribbean thanks to a multi-destination approach based on an inclusive (community-based tourism) and sustainable tourism model, promoting the conservation of natural cultural resources and the tourism culture of its residents” – World Tourism Organization, 2022
Here are a handful of compelling initiatives that are seeing the Dominican Republic trailblaze as a sustainable tourism provider.
Zero Waste
For over ten years, the Fundación Grupo Puntacana has implemented a Zero Waste program, leading to a significant decrease in waste sent to landfills. The program actively involves local residents and businesses in recycling efforts and promotes a culture of sustainable living.
Beekeeping and biodiversity preservation
With over 500 colonies of bees distributed throughout the Puntacana Resort & Club, the beekeeping initiative produces approximately 2,000 gallons of honey per year, along with other bee products like royal jelly and bee pollen. The project not only contributes to biodiversity by supporting pollination but also provides additional income for employees and local communities. This integration of ecological benefits with community development exemplifies a holistic approach to sustainability.
Coral Conservation and Restoration Program
A collaborative effort between Counterpart International and the University of Miami, the Program addresses the pressing issue of coral reef degradation in the Caribbean and contributes to the preservation of marine biodiversity, which is essential for the health of the ocean's ecosystems. It involves multiple coral species and includes collecting coral fragments, nurturing them in underwater nurseries, and transplanting them back onto the reef, and explores different methodologies, conducts workshops and research, and advocates for coral gardening worldwide.
Ojos Indígenas Eco Reserve
This 1,500-acre private nature reserve is not only a haven for biodiversity but also a bridge to the Dominican Republic's history. The reserve is home to more than 500 species of plants, 36% of which are endemic to the country. It also contains 12 freshwater lagoons, each named using Taíno words, paying homage to the island's first inhabitants. The park serves multiple purposes: educational, scientific, and recreational, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the island's diverse ecosystems and learn about its native cultural heritage.
Transforming Miches into an eco-tourism hub
Strategically located between the Bay of Samaná and renowned beaches like Punta Cana to offer visitors premium access to the country’s natural beauty, the town of Miches is being transformed into a premier eco-tourism destination as part of a larger strategy to promote sustainable luxury tourism. A notable project in this endeavor is Tropicalia, which is not only a significant economic driver but also focuses on sustainability and community involvement with the Fundación Tropicalia, established to promote economic diversification, environmental protection, cultural identity and improved education in the town of Miches.
The country’s shift towards sustainable tourism goes beyond policy changes. It represents a hope for responsible, eco-friendly travel and the preservation of the nation's entire ecosystem, fostering harmony between nature, locals, and tourists.
How you can become a more conscious traveler in the Dominican Republic
Discover animals at Los Tres Ojos National Park
Venture just five miles east of Santo Dominigo and you'll be hidden in a thick pocket of jungle that surrounds three iridescent lakes. These lagoons - or eyes as they're known as - are the result of prehistoric caves that collapsed on themselves and filled with water, attracting rainbow-hued fish and graceful turtles. Not all of the caves collapsed, however. Step inside the gaping limestone mouths to spy bats hanging from the stalagmite and stalactite-studded walls.
The unique ecosystem, preserved and protected, highlights the importance of conservation in maintaining natural habitats and is essential for eco-conscious travel. When exploring, remember to respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance, ensuring minimal disturbance to their natural habitat.
Watch Humpback Whales at Samana Peninsula
Travel to the northernmost tip of the island, where the Samana Peninsula greets you with its palm-fringed white sands and the turquoise Atlantic. Between December and March, this area becomes a breeding sanctuary for thousands of Humpback Whales.
By joining a boat trip that follows strict whale conservation guidelines, you'll have the chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Scuba dive or snorkel at Catalina Island
Reachable by boat from La Romana, Catalina Island limits the number of visitors each day to preserve its serene beauty. Here, the crystal-clear waters, boasting visibility up to 30 meters, provide an ideal setting for snorkeling and scuba diving among diverse marine species, from trumpet fish to barracudas. Don’t forget to use reef-safe sunscreen, a simple step towards protecting marine life.
Learn to kitesurf
The shallow waters of Punta Cana offer a perfect learning ground for kitesurfing beginners. Under the guidance of an instructor, you'll soon be gliding across the sea, tethered to a kite. For the more experienced, the breezy Cabarete beach is an ideal spot, widely regarded as one of the best on the island. Whether you're participating or spectating during the carnival in February, when kitesurfing stars showcase their skills, supporting the athletes will enrich your experience and help sustain the local economy.
Support local communities
Engaging with local artisans and businesses does more than just enrich your travel experience; it bolsters the Dominican Republic's economy. Choosing to patronize these local entities is a direct way to contribute to the sustainable economic development of the nation.
