The Dominican Republic, one of the few countries in the Caribbean with nine life zones-or ecological zones, is a truly unique environment where its diversity plays a significant role in making eco and adventure tourism in the country exceptional and exciting.

The owners of the Puntacana Resort and Club identified the potential  impact of their 15,000 acre property on local people and the environment. After building a school for their employees children, they established the Puntacana Ecological Foundation. An offshoot, the Center for Sustainability and Biodivirsity, partnered with major U.S. universities on issues facing the island. These types of issues include ocean water quality, coral reef restoration, and preserving threatened species.  Professors and leading researchers are hosted by the center from around the world so they may see the latest in biodiversity research. 

The La Romana-Bayahibe area of the Dominican Republic is, undoubtedly a special place- with its pristine, powder sand and clear waters, thriving villages and an extensive park system that protects ecosystems and important historical artifacts.  A few years ago, local resorts realized that the area’s spectacular attractions that serve to draw tourists could quickly become damaged as the influx of guests increased. 

With the preservation of the region in mind, these local resorts formed the La Romana-Bayahibe Hotel Association with the intention of being eco friendly.  The first matter of business was to create a quality control plan and a clear result of this initiative was the Blue Flag certification earned, the first in the Caribbean.  Following came certifications in programs designed to mark success in water conservation, energy use, waste treatment, and the support of local communities.  Locals are also supported via this coalition, as can be noted by one attending the association’s summertime fiesta, Vive Bayahibe where one can witness the success of this joining of forces towards preservation.

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