Eco-tourism offers the best potential for Santa Catarina
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Located in southern Brazil between the states of Paraná and Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina has much to offer travelers with its stunning beaches and numerous activities to be enjoyed by holidaymakers lucky enough to make it to the region.
Less than an hour's flight from Sao Paolo, This small Brazilian state, with a little more than 6 million residents, unites within its diversity of scenery and people that marvels visitors. From white sand beaches, tropical forests and snowy mountains to Azorean fishermen, Italian farmers, and German industrialists, this is a land of beautiful, sharp and fascinating contrasts.
The states economy also has its share of contrasts as a strong agriculture, based on small farms, shares space with an active industrial park, the fourth largest in Brazil. Large companies and thousands of small businesses are spread across the state, linked to consumer centers and ports by an efficient highway grid. These roads also boost tourism, a natural vocation of this small state, now the nation's third largest tourist center.
There are 500 km of beaches, lined by mountains, lagoons, rivers and the enthusiastic Atlantic Coastal Forest. From the quiet Babitonga Bay, on the Paraná border, to the long stretch of open sea at Ararangua, the curtain rises on fascinating scenery of pristine waters, white sands and natural beauty. The Beto Carreiro World theme park, in the municipality of Balneario de Penha, is the largest tourist attraction of the region, together with the fantastic beaches and the historic heritage of Sao Francisco do Sul.
Although it occupies little more than 1% of the Brazilian territory, Santa Catarina excels on the national scene, and not only for its cultural, ethnic and geographic diversity, but also for its privileged location in relation to the countries of Mercosur, represent an huge potential for the affirmation of the state as one of the principal tourist destinations in the country. A breathtaking coast line, established tourist attractions such as Florianopolis, Balneario Camboriú and Blumenau, gorgeous mountains, and a complete circuit of festivals entice the tourists. With these attractions the state receives some 4 million tourists per year, a number that is constantly growing.
Eco-tourism, the fastest growing tourist sector worldwide, offers the best potential for Santa Catarina and attracts a growing contingent of nature sports lovers, for mountain climbing to hiking, mountain biking to rafting with canoeing, paragliding and scuba diving facilities all nearby, while in the winter, pine trees covered in snow high up in the mountains and then the well preserved Atlantic Coastal Forest attract nature lovers. This trend can turn the region into a new world center of eco-tourism, a vocation that seems to have been especially planned for this land, that has the name of a saint and which is blessed by nature.
Social BookmarkingLess than an hour's flight from Sao Paolo, This small Brazilian state, with a little more than 6 million residents, unites within its diversity of scenery and people that marvels visitors. From white sand beaches, tropical forests and snowy mountains to Azorean fishermen, Italian farmers, and German industrialists, this is a land of beautiful, sharp and fascinating contrasts.
The states economy also has its share of contrasts as a strong agriculture, based on small farms, shares space with an active industrial park, the fourth largest in Brazil. Large companies and thousands of small businesses are spread across the state, linked to consumer centers and ports by an efficient highway grid. These roads also boost tourism, a natural vocation of this small state, now the nation's third largest tourist center.
There are 500 km of beaches, lined by mountains, lagoons, rivers and the enthusiastic Atlantic Coastal Forest. From the quiet Babitonga Bay, on the Paraná border, to the long stretch of open sea at Ararangua, the curtain rises on fascinating scenery of pristine waters, white sands and natural beauty. The Beto Carreiro World theme park, in the municipality of Balneario de Penha, is the largest tourist attraction of the region, together with the fantastic beaches and the historic heritage of Sao Francisco do Sul.
Although it occupies little more than 1% of the Brazilian territory, Santa Catarina excels on the national scene, and not only for its cultural, ethnic and geographic diversity, but also for its privileged location in relation to the countries of Mercosur, represent an huge potential for the affirmation of the state as one of the principal tourist destinations in the country. A breathtaking coast line, established tourist attractions such as Florianopolis, Balneario Camboriú and Blumenau, gorgeous mountains, and a complete circuit of festivals entice the tourists. With these attractions the state receives some 4 million tourists per year, a number that is constantly growing.
Eco-tourism, the fastest growing tourist sector worldwide, offers the best potential for Santa Catarina and attracts a growing contingent of nature sports lovers, for mountain climbing to hiking, mountain biking to rafting with canoeing, paragliding and scuba diving facilities all nearby, while in the winter, pine trees covered in snow high up in the mountains and then the well preserved Atlantic Coastal Forest attract nature lovers. This trend can turn the region into a new world center of eco-tourism, a vocation that seems to have been especially planned for this land, that has the name of a saint and which is blessed by nature.
Labels: Environment-friendly, Santa-Catarina
Brazil top eco-friendly property investment destination
Sunday, May 24, 2009
The property developers in Brazil are leading the way in making sure that their projects minimize the impact they have upon the natural resources of their surroundings and also the residents are more likely to purchase green electricity for their home than inhabitants in any other country, according to the latest research.
In the second annual survey to measure and monitor consumer behaviors that have an impact on the environment, National Geographic and the international polling firm GlobeScan have found that residential property in Brazil registered the best housing scores along with India, as they are found to be the most environmentally friendly across the categories of housing, transportation, food and goods.
The Greendex study included questions on energy use and conservation, transportation choices, food sources, the relative use of green products, attitudes towards the environment and sustainability and awareness of environmental issues. Terry Garcia, executive vice president of National Geographic's, Mission Programs commented: "Interestingly, the economic upheaval appears to have had a silver lining for the environment."
The government authorities have kept tight restrictions on the projects they allow to be built and are trying to make sure they fit in with the natural environment. The developers on the other hand are seeing the benefit of building low-density projects and using the protection of the environment as a way of attracting a different kind of buyer.
According to the United Nations (UN) World Tourism Organization, Eco- tourism is getting popular in Brazil due to its plethora of world heritage sites, including Igaucu national park and the Amazon Conservation Complex. Laura Rendell-Dunn, marketing manager for Journey Latin America, asserts that Brazil is the "perfect destination" for travelers looking for nature, adventure and culture, as "it offers something for everybody".
Social BookmarkingIn the second annual survey to measure and monitor consumer behaviors that have an impact on the environment, National Geographic and the international polling firm GlobeScan have found that residential property in Brazil registered the best housing scores along with India, as they are found to be the most environmentally friendly across the categories of housing, transportation, food and goods.
The Greendex study included questions on energy use and conservation, transportation choices, food sources, the relative use of green products, attitudes towards the environment and sustainability and awareness of environmental issues. Terry Garcia, executive vice president of National Geographic's, Mission Programs commented: "Interestingly, the economic upheaval appears to have had a silver lining for the environment."
The government authorities have kept tight restrictions on the projects they allow to be built and are trying to make sure they fit in with the natural environment. The developers on the other hand are seeing the benefit of building low-density projects and using the protection of the environment as a way of attracting a different kind of buyer.
According to the United Nations (UN) World Tourism Organization, Eco- tourism is getting popular in Brazil due to its plethora of world heritage sites, including Igaucu national park and the Amazon Conservation Complex. Laura Rendell-Dunn, marketing manager for Journey Latin America, asserts that Brazil is the "perfect destination" for travelers looking for nature, adventure and culture, as "it offers something for everybody".
Labels: Environment-friendly
World Bank approves $1.3bn environmental loan to Brazil
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Brazilian property investors with an eco-friendly conscience could be interested to learn that the World Bank has approved a $1.3 billion (£910 million) loan to Brazil to support the country's environmental management and climate change efforts.
Brazil will collect the First Programmatic Development Policy Loan for Sustainable Environmental Management to fund its forest, water management and renewable energy schemes, as well as integrating its climate change agenda. The program is to help decrease the flawed farming and logging practices as well as illegal deforestation by giving local communities privileged treatment regarding forest concessions. The program will also try to perk up Brazil's water and sanitation services, which is the main reason of hospitalization in the country with diseases such as dysentery. The $800 million will be disbursed in the first phase and a second tranche of $500 million is expected to be paid out in the fourth quarter of 2009 upon fulfillment of the projects goals.
Makhtar Diop, the World Bank's county director for Brazil has said that the loan "will prop up Brazil's environmental management and will integrate the sustainability concerns in the development agenda of key sectors such as forest management, water and renewable energy."
Guido Mantega, minister of finance commented: "The Brazilian government has been working strongly towards the development and implementation of public policies that address sustainable development so that economic growth occurs without loss to our rich biodiversity."
In related news, University of Sao Paulo (USP), the nation's most renowned university has launched its first environmentally sustainable building. The Centre of Studies on Climate and Sustainable Environments in the university is a zero-energy consumption building, according to Brazzil Magazine reports.
Social BookmarkingBrazil will collect the First Programmatic Development Policy Loan for Sustainable Environmental Management to fund its forest, water management and renewable energy schemes, as well as integrating its climate change agenda. The program is to help decrease the flawed farming and logging practices as well as illegal deforestation by giving local communities privileged treatment regarding forest concessions. The program will also try to perk up Brazil's water and sanitation services, which is the main reason of hospitalization in the country with diseases such as dysentery. The $800 million will be disbursed in the first phase and a second tranche of $500 million is expected to be paid out in the fourth quarter of 2009 upon fulfillment of the projects goals.
Makhtar Diop, the World Bank's county director for Brazil has said that the loan "will prop up Brazil's environmental management and will integrate the sustainability concerns in the development agenda of key sectors such as forest management, water and renewable energy."
Guido Mantega, minister of finance commented: "The Brazilian government has been working strongly towards the development and implementation of public policies that address sustainable development so that economic growth occurs without loss to our rich biodiversity."
In related news, University of Sao Paulo (USP), the nation's most renowned university has launched its first environmentally sustainable building. The Centre of Studies on Climate and Sustainable Environments in the university is a zero-energy consumption building, according to Brazzil Magazine reports.
Labels: Environment-friendly, Latest-News
Brazilian ecotourism grows exponentially
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Adventure travel and Ecotourism are on the rise in Brazil and has become a popular alternative to traditional beach holidays due to the amazing Amazon.
According to the United Nations (UN) World Tourism Organization, which has stated that the attractiveness of Brazil is due to its "wealth of spectacular places to visit", such as the its overabundance of world heritage sites, including Igaucu national park and the Amazon Conservation Complex.
After the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian ecotourism began to grow exponentially and the country woke up to its eco-potential. According to official figures, 5 million ecotourists visit destinations like the Pantanal, the world's largest wetlands, and Abrolhos, a coastal whale-watching paradise. Ecotourism has generated $4.95 billion for the economy. The tourism industry in general grows by 3% a year, ecotourism is up by 15% and Bonito is experiencing 20-30% annual growth in its tourism trade.
Dorival Bruni, president of the non-profit Biosphere Society estimates that Ecotourism which is accounting for 15% of the travel industry, could make up as much as 50% by 2010.
Laura Rendell-Dunn, marketing manager for Journey Latin America, asserts that ecotourism is "very popular" among environmentally conscious holidaymakers.
She commented: "We all like to go on holiday but we also want to know that we are not causing damage. That is very much at the forefront of people's minds when they travel now."
The interest in cave tourism in Brazil also has grown quite a lot due to the technical enhancements developed at the conservation units of the country over the years. According to the Brazilian Cave Tourism Society, there about 2,800 registered caves and the institution acknowledges that the number is quite higher. From this total, 53 are considered as tourist sites.
Brazil has launched a two-step program to realize its ecotourism potential sponsored by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).The project began last year with a $13 million pilot program called Proecotur to prop up projects in the Amazon. $200 million countrywide program is planned to follow for the infrastructure improvements and to fund the private sector to develop specific attractions, accommodations, etc. Roberto Morao, president of the Brazilian Ecotourism Association (Ecobrasil) has said "Normally you ask for the money first and see how things work out later, But we're going to see how it works first and then move forward."
An ambitious Pantanal Project includes an ecotourism component was launched in conjunction with the IDB. Embratur, Brazilian tourism agency hired the Terra consultancy in partnership with private IEB to make a comprehensive study of potential ecotourism sites around the country. Nearly 88 different eco-poles have been identified and local governments are launching independent initiatives to improve infrastructure and promote travel in these poles.
The environment minister Carlos Minc has introduced new policies to tackle climate changes. He has said that the government is promoting sustainable tourism and it’s good for Brazil because it generates a lot of money for the local communities. The efforts stem to overseas buyers who are investing in property in Brazil as well, according to Mr Minc, who believes that they are being made aware of environmental concerns.
Social BookmarkingAccording to the United Nations (UN) World Tourism Organization, which has stated that the attractiveness of Brazil is due to its "wealth of spectacular places to visit", such as the its overabundance of world heritage sites, including Igaucu national park and the Amazon Conservation Complex.
After the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian ecotourism began to grow exponentially and the country woke up to its eco-potential. According to official figures, 5 million ecotourists visit destinations like the Pantanal, the world's largest wetlands, and Abrolhos, a coastal whale-watching paradise. Ecotourism has generated $4.95 billion for the economy. The tourism industry in general grows by 3% a year, ecotourism is up by 15% and Bonito is experiencing 20-30% annual growth in its tourism trade.
Dorival Bruni, president of the non-profit Biosphere Society estimates that Ecotourism which is accounting for 15% of the travel industry, could make up as much as 50% by 2010.
Laura Rendell-Dunn, marketing manager for Journey Latin America, asserts that ecotourism is "very popular" among environmentally conscious holidaymakers.
She commented: "We all like to go on holiday but we also want to know that we are not causing damage. That is very much at the forefront of people's minds when they travel now."
The interest in cave tourism in Brazil also has grown quite a lot due to the technical enhancements developed at the conservation units of the country over the years. According to the Brazilian Cave Tourism Society, there about 2,800 registered caves and the institution acknowledges that the number is quite higher. From this total, 53 are considered as tourist sites.
Brazil has launched a two-step program to realize its ecotourism potential sponsored by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).The project began last year with a $13 million pilot program called Proecotur to prop up projects in the Amazon. $200 million countrywide program is planned to follow for the infrastructure improvements and to fund the private sector to develop specific attractions, accommodations, etc. Roberto Morao, president of the Brazilian Ecotourism Association (Ecobrasil) has said "Normally you ask for the money first and see how things work out later, But we're going to see how it works first and then move forward."
An ambitious Pantanal Project includes an ecotourism component was launched in conjunction with the IDB. Embratur, Brazilian tourism agency hired the Terra consultancy in partnership with private IEB to make a comprehensive study of potential ecotourism sites around the country. Nearly 88 different eco-poles have been identified and local governments are launching independent initiatives to improve infrastructure and promote travel in these poles.
The environment minister Carlos Minc has introduced new policies to tackle climate changes. He has said that the government is promoting sustainable tourism and it’s good for Brazil because it generates a lot of money for the local communities. The efforts stem to overseas buyers who are investing in property in Brazil as well, according to Mr Minc, who believes that they are being made aware of environmental concerns.
Labels: Environment-friendly, Tourism
Eco-friendly resort to promote eco-tourism in Brazil
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Foreign investors looking at property for sale in Brazil could be interested to hear that environmentally-conscious "world-class" resort is being built on the nation's north-east coast.
Property experts have predicted that eco-tourism will be decisive to the development of the Brazilian property market. Brazil is well equipped for eco-tourism and the Brazilian tourist board Embratur is already promoting eco-tourism and the ecological wonders scattered throughout the country such as waterfalls, mountains, rivers and catarates.
The Reef Club, an exclusive eco-friendly project in Pernambuco has open-plan design which generates a spacious feel whilst the eco-friendly construction reflects an idea in sustainable development and ensures a sound investment. The resort hosts the Women's Brazilian Golf Open and the 2011 Volley Ball Championships which will boost the resort into the global spotlight.
The resort is constructed using a blend of traditional craftsmanship combined with modern technology and eco-friendly construction. The development include swimming pools, large private gardens and terraces, acres of woodlands, a five-star hotel as well as a number of leisure activities on site.
Commenting on the project, Property portal Nubricks said that the developer's vision is to build one of Brazil's most exclusive world-class resort and setting the standard in modern luxury and leisure in Latin America.
Property experts have predicted that eco-tourism will be decisive to the development of the Brazilian property market. Brazil is well equipped for eco-tourism and the Brazilian tourist board Embratur is already promoting eco-tourism and the ecological wonders scattered throughout the country such as waterfalls, mountains, rivers and catarates.
The Reef Club, an exclusive eco-friendly project in Pernambuco has open-plan design which generates a spacious feel whilst the eco-friendly construction reflects an idea in sustainable development and ensures a sound investment. The resort hosts the Women's Brazilian Golf Open and the 2011 Volley Ball Championships which will boost the resort into the global spotlight.
The resort is constructed using a blend of traditional craftsmanship combined with modern technology and eco-friendly construction. The development include swimming pools, large private gardens and terraces, acres of woodlands, a five-star hotel as well as a number of leisure activities on site.
Commenting on the project, Property portal Nubricks said that the developer's vision is to build one of Brazil's most exclusive world-class resort and setting the standard in modern luxury and leisure in Latin America.
Labels: Environment-friendly
Salvador de Bahia, considered a magnet for tourists
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Brazils Salvador de Bahia, is said to be a 'magnet for tourists'.Joao Pedro Fonseca, who has been studying the region's history, told when speaking to the Earth Times that Salvador de Bahia is a marvelous historic center, and is no doubt, a magnet for tourists.
Being considered as the Capital city of Brazil during the period 1549 to 1763, the city has an historic significance, for which, it was awarded the World Heritage status by UNESCO about 22 years ago.
A local conservationist, Aurelio Rocha, said that the region is an 'ideal location for eco-tourism.' Located, just 430 kilometers away from Salvador de Bahia, the holidaymakers get to see the 'unique, natural landscape' of Chapa Diamantina, a plateau with table-mountains, waterfalls, canyons, lagoons and caves.
The Brazilian Institute of Tourism, Embratur, has announced that it expects more than 500 travel industry professionals to participate in the Conference in Brazil, during this summer, and is intended to promote the travel credentials in the country.
The Destination Showcase in Brazil, will take place between 16th and 17th June, which will focus on Latin American destinations such as Lencois Maranhenses, Iguassu Falls, Delta do Parnaiba, Fernando de Noronha, Pantanal, Bahia, Angra dos Reis and Paraty, are few of them.
Labels: Bahia, Environment-friendly, Tourism
Eco-property continues to remain strong despite market slowdown
Friday, February 22, 2008
Despite general downturn in the property markets of developed countries, eco-property is back and strong. Announcing an eco-property investment in Brazil, does not come as a surprise.
The plan for building an eco-resort in Brazil, gained momentum last week, due to increased numbers of early-bird investors in the surrounding land. This heavy entry-level investment was least expected, which in turn, brought in plenty of momentum to the eco property effort. In the wake of this development, it has been reported that most other property developers in Brazil, too, are planning similar resorts in different areas.
As mentioned, eco property booms in Brazil are to be expected, and, as a country experiencing great growth in overall real estate market, particularly, a development, which gives priority to ecologically friendly construction, such interests are only natural.
However, when such an interest is spotted in a developed country such as the UK, it appears surprising to most analysts. The United Kingdom has an affluent upper class that is very cautious about environmental protection and issues related to that field, which is not found in Brazil.
As referred to by the 'Times Online', being a class of 'affluent eco-worriers', people are the primary driving factor behind interest shown in eco property in the developed countries. It is said that people need to have money, to act on a belief in eco property.
But, a recent report released by Smart Money has suggested that an eco-home could cost any amount between three to five percent, which is more than a conventional home of the same size and amenities, irrespective of the place where it is located. However, the same report also states that there is also a downward movement seen in pricing of eco property, which is yet to translate into any real demand. Hence, the opinions of analysts differ on whether it will happen in the near future.
Social BookmarkingThe plan for building an eco-resort in Brazil, gained momentum last week, due to increased numbers of early-bird investors in the surrounding land. This heavy entry-level investment was least expected, which in turn, brought in plenty of momentum to the eco property effort. In the wake of this development, it has been reported that most other property developers in Brazil, too, are planning similar resorts in different areas.
As mentioned, eco property booms in Brazil are to be expected, and, as a country experiencing great growth in overall real estate market, particularly, a development, which gives priority to ecologically friendly construction, such interests are only natural.
However, when such an interest is spotted in a developed country such as the UK, it appears surprising to most analysts. The United Kingdom has an affluent upper class that is very cautious about environmental protection and issues related to that field, which is not found in Brazil.
As referred to by the 'Times Online', being a class of 'affluent eco-worriers', people are the primary driving factor behind interest shown in eco property in the developed countries. It is said that people need to have money, to act on a belief in eco property.
But, a recent report released by Smart Money has suggested that an eco-home could cost any amount between three to five percent, which is more than a conventional home of the same size and amenities, irrespective of the place where it is located. However, the same report also states that there is also a downward movement seen in pricing of eco property, which is yet to translate into any real demand. Hence, the opinions of analysts differ on whether it will happen in the near future.
Labels: Environment-friendly, Latest-News, Market-Trends
David Beckham's Academy in Natal
Friday, February 15, 2008
Investor all over the world should consider Brazil as place to put in their money. Developments are sprouting all over the country and to counter any possible ecological disaster, the government instituted strict policies safeguarding the environment.
David Beckham, one of football’s notable, will open an academy right in Brazil more particularly in Natal. His proposed project has already gotten the nod from the environmental authorities tasked to man construction of edifices. This will include a mini-stadium and a small sports complex. There will also be an area for training and a provision for living quarters where trainees will be accommodated. This is projected to draw even more visitors to the place. This is set to open by 2014 in time for the FIFA World cup. It is laudable that it passed the stringent requirements for environmental compliance.
Other projects did not have an easy time in getting the approval of the authorities. One such development is the Grand Golf Natal which has yet to satisfy the requirements in terms of waste treatment and the specifics on its water supply. The developers need to present an explanation of the resort operation’s effect on the environment.
The Brazilian government has strict standards regarding the country’s environmental sustainability thus the enforcement of eco-friendly policies. It is believed that such adherence to the law will guarantee that the natural resources which attract visitors to Brazil will be preserved. Tourists will have a reason to come back and experience the beauty of the country and this will in return create a growth in the rental revenues. At the same time, this is a clear manifestation that development and ecological balance can co-exist and the Beckham Academy can attest to that.
Social BookmarkingDavid Beckham, one of football’s notable, will open an academy right in Brazil more particularly in Natal. His proposed project has already gotten the nod from the environmental authorities tasked to man construction of edifices. This will include a mini-stadium and a small sports complex. There will also be an area for training and a provision for living quarters where trainees will be accommodated. This is projected to draw even more visitors to the place. This is set to open by 2014 in time for the FIFA World cup. It is laudable that it passed the stringent requirements for environmental compliance.
Other projects did not have an easy time in getting the approval of the authorities. One such development is the Grand Golf Natal which has yet to satisfy the requirements in terms of waste treatment and the specifics on its water supply. The developers need to present an explanation of the resort operation’s effect on the environment.
The Brazilian government has strict standards regarding the country’s environmental sustainability thus the enforcement of eco-friendly policies. It is believed that such adherence to the law will guarantee that the natural resources which attract visitors to Brazil will be preserved. Tourists will have a reason to come back and experience the beauty of the country and this will in return create a growth in the rental revenues. At the same time, this is a clear manifestation that development and ecological balance can co-exist and the Beckham Academy can attest to that.
Labels: Environment-friendly, Latest-News, Natal
