Turismo científico: una alternativa sostenible para la bioeconomía en comunidades rurales Kichwas

Abstract

This study analyzes the perception of scientific tourism (TCi) carried out by the Timburi Cocha Biological Station (EBTC) and its contribution to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage among the main actors involved in scientific research, forest conservation and community development. in the San José de Payamino Kichwa community, located in an area of ​​high biodiversity in the Sumaco Biosphere Reserve (RBS), Loreto canton, Ecuadorian Amazon. Interviews were conducted with key stakeholders interested in TCi's activities and with community leaders. The results showed that both the local community population and the key actors perceived that the activities carried out by the EBTC contributed to the empowerment of the community, especially through the recognition of their cultural and ancestral values. This supported the sustainable development and bioeconomy of the community, the EBTC contributed to the community an annual average of 5,000 dollars in the last eight years, in addition to other social and cultural benefits provided by the different activities carried out by the EBTC.