Rural Nepal is so traditional and underdeveloped, and yet potential for sustainable development is guaranteed given the wealth and diversity of agricultural and touristic resources. Main issue: the patent lack of infrastructures -- there are litterally no praticable roads, electric and phone grids outside Kathmandu valley -- has refrained economic and social development in the country-side. As a results, rural populations are left underpriviledged, with remote school access for children and most often no healthcare ... Beyond Peaks is working with NGOs and local entrepreneurs to implement most promising sustainable community development projects. The potential for locally-driven economic and social advances are huges, let s enable them!
Concepts:
# 1 -- Sustainable Development Concept with the NGO "Action High Land" for the sustainable development of the Lower Solukhumbu mountain regions. Opportunities lay in improved utilisation of touristic and farming resources. Investments: EUR 25,000 over 3 years
# 2 -- Sustainable Development Concept with the NGO "Banjang Conservation" for the sustainable development of the mountain region of Banjang in Western Nepal. Opportunities lay in new toursim and volonteering activities coupled with improved farming resources utilisation. Business plan tbd
# 3 -- Healthcare Concept with the NGO "Action High Land" to help improve healthcare facilities at the Karikhola hospital. Concretely: financial support to hire a doctor and provide medical supplies to the only hospital in the lower Solukhumbu area. Investments: EUR 10,000 per year
How Beyond Peaks helps :
Sustainability of mountain tourism and its impact on local communities and ecosystems is a topic of increasing importance, especially in depraved mountain regions. We aim to combine our mountaineering adventures with a sense of activism: To assess the ecologic, economic and social impacts of tourism on mountain communities and ecosystems; To extrapolate how sustainable development may improve ecologic, economic and social conditions; To support sustainable development projects led by local entrepreneurs.
Best Practices: Community Development in Nepal
The NGO "Kathmandu Environmental Education Project" (KEEP) is at the forefront for optimising tourism opportunities in Nepal. KEEP's Community Development Program began as an effort to maximise the benefits of toursim to the local communities.
The program aims to provide opportunity for international travelers, volunteers, or students to assist communities through development projects during their stay in villages.
Development projects include running small scale community projects as school renovations and educational projects, drinking water projects, setting up health camps, and environmental awareness activities.
In addition, cultural exchange ativities are when possible organised.
Besides working on projects, participants enjoy their stay with local host families as part of the Home Stay program.
The Nepal Tourism Board strongly support the programmes, taking the opportunities of activities to provide presentation about Nepal and its destinations as well as th role of NTB.
Resources:
* DB Gurung, Director of KEEP, 16.11.2009
* www.keepnepal.org
The program aims to provide opportunity for international travelers, volunteers, or students to assist communities through development projects during their stay in villages.
Development projects include running small scale community projects as school renovations and educational projects, drinking water projects, setting up health camps, and environmental awareness activities.
In addition, cultural exchange ativities are when possible organised.
Besides working on projects, participants enjoy their stay with local host families as part of the Home Stay program.
The Nepal Tourism Board strongly support the programmes, taking the opportunities of activities to provide presentation about Nepal and its destinations as well as th role of NTB.
Resources:
* DB Gurung, Director of KEEP, 16.11.2009
* www.keepnepal.org
Best Practices: Environmental Awareness in Nepal
The NGO "Kathmandu Environmentl Education Project" (KEEP) is at the forefront of disseminating information about tourism and its negative impact on Himalayan ecosystems. The Environmental Awareness Program, one of KEEP's key initiaitves, emphasizes educationof key stakeholders of the tourism industry about the environment, conservation, responsible tourism and tourism best practices.
As part of this program, KEEP runs video and slideshow presentations on various topics such as culture, trekking gently in the Himalayas, waste management, mountain safety, conservation, new tourism products, porter issues and campsite management.
In addition, clean-up campaigns are held every-years in partnership with Nepal River Conservation Trust (NRCT), Sustainable Tourism Network (STN), Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC)... These clean ups campaign were attended by the participants and instructors of KEEP's English language course (tourism professionals) as well as representatives of KMC, NRCT and STN, and the local communities.
Resources:
* DB Gurung, Director of KEEP, 16.11.09
* www.keepnepal.org
As part of this program, KEEP runs video and slideshow presentations on various topics such as culture, trekking gently in the Himalayas, waste management, mountain safety, conservation, new tourism products, porter issues and campsite management.
In addition, clean-up campaigns are held every-years in partnership with Nepal River Conservation Trust (NRCT), Sustainable Tourism Network (STN), Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC)... These clean ups campaign were attended by the participants and instructors of KEEP's English language course (tourism professionals) as well as representatives of KMC, NRCT and STN, and the local communities.
Resources:
* DB Gurung, Director of KEEP, 16.11.09
* www.keepnepal.org
On sustainability of Nepalese-Himalayan Trekking and Climbing
In the 50 years since Nepal opened its borders to outsiders, tourism has brought many benefits, in terms of wealth generation, employement opportunities, infrastructure, healthcare, education and transport, creating a level of social mobility that would have been unthinkable in the past. Many Nepalis who own trekking companies today worked as porters themselves 20 years ago.
Now over 450,000 tourists visit the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal every year. Nepal faces several social and environemental issues as a result of, or at least coumpounded by tourists' actions and expectations. Some negative effects of tourism are also clear to see: Begging is widspread; litter chokes mountain trails -Trekkers in Nepal leave behind an estimated 100 tonnes of unrecyclable water bottles every year-; new hotels and lodges are built at an unprecedented rate; forests are vanishing as lodge owners collect ever more firewood to keep trekkers supplied with warm showers and hot meals...
There is endless discussion among travellers about the most environmentally and culturally sensitive way to travel. What is certain is that making a positive contributuion is as much about the way travellers behave as the money they spend. A number of Gov and non-gov organisations are addressing the topics of sustainable development in Nepal. Among these:
* the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP) aims to help minimize the negative influences of tourism by advocating and promoting "minimum impact trekking";
* the Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Programme (TRPAP) aims to develop new community-based environmentl and cultural tourism projects in rural areas
* also, a number of treeking agencies use the proceeds from their trips to support charitable projects around nepal, and many travellers also undertake sponsored treks and climbing expeditions in Nepal to raise money for specific charities and projects.
DB Gurung, Director of KEEP, spoke to me about how trekkers and mountaineers can minimise their footprint in Nepal. Here are his tipps on environmental issues:
* Stay at lodges that use alternative fuels for cooking;
* Don't make campfires and only take showers if the water is solar heated;
* Leave all non-bidegradable items at home and carry out anything you do bring in;
* Avoid drinks or foods in plastic wrappers, bottles and tins, and purify your own drinking water with iodine;
* Use biodegradable soaps for washing and take your batteries home for proper disposal;
and his tipps on social issues regarding porters:
* Provide porters with a fair wage;
* Do ot overload your porters, and provide adequate clothing;
* Ensure that the trek organiser takes care of its porters and provides them with medical and life insurance
Organisations and Resources on Responsible Tourism in Nepal-Himalaya:
* Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP): www.keepnepal.org
* Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Programme (TRPAP): www.welcome2nepal.com.cn/index-2.htm
* Trekking Gently in the Himalaya, Wendy Brewer Lama - essential tips for trekkers!
* World Expeditions: www.worldexpeditions.net / 'responsible travel' links
* Tourism Concern: www. tourismconcern.org.uk
Now over 450,000 tourists visit the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal every year. Nepal faces several social and environemental issues as a result of, or at least coumpounded by tourists' actions and expectations. Some negative effects of tourism are also clear to see: Begging is widspread; litter chokes mountain trails -Trekkers in Nepal leave behind an estimated 100 tonnes of unrecyclable water bottles every year-; new hotels and lodges are built at an unprecedented rate; forests are vanishing as lodge owners collect ever more firewood to keep trekkers supplied with warm showers and hot meals...
There is endless discussion among travellers about the most environmentally and culturally sensitive way to travel. What is certain is that making a positive contributuion is as much about the way travellers behave as the money they spend. A number of Gov and non-gov organisations are addressing the topics of sustainable development in Nepal. Among these:
* the Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP) aims to help minimize the negative influences of tourism by advocating and promoting "minimum impact trekking";
* the Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Programme (TRPAP) aims to develop new community-based environmentl and cultural tourism projects in rural areas
* also, a number of treeking agencies use the proceeds from their trips to support charitable projects around nepal, and many travellers also undertake sponsored treks and climbing expeditions in Nepal to raise money for specific charities and projects.
DB Gurung, Director of KEEP, spoke to me about how trekkers and mountaineers can minimise their footprint in Nepal. Here are his tipps on environmental issues:
* Stay at lodges that use alternative fuels for cooking;
* Don't make campfires and only take showers if the water is solar heated;
* Leave all non-bidegradable items at home and carry out anything you do bring in;
* Avoid drinks or foods in plastic wrappers, bottles and tins, and purify your own drinking water with iodine;
* Use biodegradable soaps for washing and take your batteries home for proper disposal;
and his tipps on social issues regarding porters:
* Provide porters with a fair wage;
* Do ot overload your porters, and provide adequate clothing;
* Ensure that the trek organiser takes care of its porters and provides them with medical and life insurance
Organisations and Resources on Responsible Tourism in Nepal-Himalaya:
* Kathmandu Environmental Education Project (KEEP): www.keepnepal.org
* Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Programme (TRPAP): www.welcome2nepal.com.cn/index-2.htm
* Trekking Gently in the Himalaya, Wendy Brewer Lama - essential tips for trekkers!
* World Expeditions: www.worldexpeditions.net / 'responsible travel' links
* Tourism Concern: www. tourismconcern.org.uk
Best Practices: UIAA's Guidelines for Sustainable Mountain Tourism
The International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation (UIAA) promotes the growth and protection of mountaineering and climbing worldwide by 1) preserving their spirit and traditions; 2) advancing safe and ethical mountain practices; 3) promoting responsible access, culture and environmental protection; and 4) Supporting youth participation and the Olympic movement.
The Access and Conservation commission of the UIAA has developed a set of guidelines on mountain tourism called the Argeo’s charter.
Theses guidelines are built on the belief that tourism is vitally important to ensure sustainable economic and social development for people living in mountain regions, but at the same time it is important to prevent tourism from destroying the environment and local cultures.
These guidelines focus on understanding and protecting the environment, preserving the cultural identity of the local mountain people and ensuring that mountain tourism really help the economic development of mountain areas.
These guidelines are meant as advice for communities who want to develop sustainable mountain tourism and want to avoid repeating the mistakes of some tourist regions in Europe.
links:
* Kathmandu Declaration: http://is.gd/29mt5
* UIAA ARGEO's Charter on Sustainable Mountaineering: http://is.gd/29lNx
On Human Impacts on the Andean Cordilleras
Andean Cordilleras are unique mountain paradise, and some are some of the planet's natural treasures. Their beuaty, quiet, and pure landscapes, however, are under threat. Three issues will have major impacts on the future of these mountain range. The outcome of each has yet to be determined: through proactive action, trekkers and climbers can make a positive impact.
The amount of garbage abandoned on trails in the Cordilleras is an issue of concern. If the international trekking and climbing community are able to solve this problem internally, perhaps we can avoid a fate similar to that of Machu Picchu in Perù. There, the Perù National Institute of Natural Resources has taken a heavy-handed approach to the garbage issue by requiring visistors to hire a guide (> USD 60 a day), limiting group sizes, and charging a USD 50 entrance fee (per person) - all control by an international profit-making organisation. The guide requirement especially infringes upon the opportunity for 'freedom of the hills'. If garbage is still an isue if/when each Cordillera become parks, administrators may take a heavy-handed stance. However, if garbage is no longer an issue, perhaps they will spend more of their time on trail and toilet construction, signage, and lobbying against the encroaching mine rather than on policing trekkers and climbers.
Trekking groups are the dominant source of garbage on Andean trails. Although trekkers themselves are often concscientious of the issue, they fail to tke proactive arole that is necessary to ameliorate the problem. Arrieros (donkey drivrs) are often left to break camp and prepare the donkeys for the day's trekwhile trekkers scurry ahead. This offers the windowof opportunity for arrieros to dump garbge. Coming from a life of economic struggles, arrieros understandably focus on matters such as ffeding a family rather than on maintaining clean trails. Trekkers and climbers should make it clear to the arriero that he is being paid to bring all garbage along and not dump it.
Create incentive for good behavior. Use the arriero contracts that guarantees part of wage only when the arriero presents the garbage at the end of the trip, and offer economic reward for picking up garbage that was already there. The aim is for arrieros to learn that trekkers value pristine wilderness and recgnise their own incentive in maintaining it.
The second major issue harming the Andean are industrial activities, especially mining. In the Cordillera Huayhuash, Japonese-owned Mitsui Mining & Smelting operates above Pallca, just below the western flanks of Rondoy. The impact of this project on both the environment and local inhabitants of the area has been sharply criticized. In 1995-96, Mitsui negatiated with the locals into allowing mining 'exploration' to continue. That was likely the last chance to completely halt the project. Since then, environmental groups have tried to keep Mitsui's presence in check. In june 1999, an aquifer was accidentally perforated causing the heavy situation of the Llamac River above the villages of Pocpa and Llamac. In the resulting confrontation between villagers and police who were guarding the mine , three villager were wounded when the police opened fire on protestors. The Cordillera Huayhuash has since officilaly became a Reserved Zone, which explicitly recognises the rights and traditional land use by local communities of this region. That case of the Huyahuash is common across the Andean and, hopefully, they should a more sustainable approach to use of natural resources should be taken. Some of the most beuatiful part of the Andes such as the Huayhuash should even gain the higher designation of a "Protected Landscape".
A third major issue presently threatening the Andean mountains is solid human waste and toilet paper. Many groups feel that it is unrealistic that they carry a bucket through the circuit for this purpose. The result is that boulders surrounding camps become smelly, unasanitary places. The cleanliness of the drinking water is under threat. As short-term solution, bring a steel shovel and dig small pit toilets. The long-term solution is to build pit or composting toilets. Trekkers and climbers can contribute to this cause by donating or volunteering with the organisation. (see: Best Practices: How to Build a Pit Toilet)
The amount of garbage abandoned on trails in the Cordilleras is an issue of concern. If the international trekking and climbing community are able to solve this problem internally, perhaps we can avoid a fate similar to that of Machu Picchu in Perù. There, the Perù National Institute of Natural Resources has taken a heavy-handed approach to the garbage issue by requiring visistors to hire a guide (> USD 60 a day), limiting group sizes, and charging a USD 50 entrance fee (per person) - all control by an international profit-making organisation. The guide requirement especially infringes upon the opportunity for 'freedom of the hills'. If garbage is still an isue if/when each Cordillera become parks, administrators may take a heavy-handed stance. However, if garbage is no longer an issue, perhaps they will spend more of their time on trail and toilet construction, signage, and lobbying against the encroaching mine rather than on policing trekkers and climbers.
Trekking groups are the dominant source of garbage on Andean trails. Although trekkers themselves are often concscientious of the issue, they fail to tke proactive arole that is necessary to ameliorate the problem. Arrieros (donkey drivrs) are often left to break camp and prepare the donkeys for the day's trekwhile trekkers scurry ahead. This offers the windowof opportunity for arrieros to dump garbge. Coming from a life of economic struggles, arrieros understandably focus on matters such as ffeding a family rather than on maintaining clean trails. Trekkers and climbers should make it clear to the arriero that he is being paid to bring all garbage along and not dump it.
Create incentive for good behavior. Use the arriero contracts that guarantees part of wage only when the arriero presents the garbage at the end of the trip, and offer economic reward for picking up garbage that was already there. The aim is for arrieros to learn that trekkers value pristine wilderness and recgnise their own incentive in maintaining it.
The second major issue harming the Andean are industrial activities, especially mining. In the Cordillera Huayhuash, Japonese-owned Mitsui Mining & Smelting operates above Pallca, just below the western flanks of Rondoy. The impact of this project on both the environment and local inhabitants of the area has been sharply criticized. In 1995-96, Mitsui negatiated with the locals into allowing mining 'exploration' to continue. That was likely the last chance to completely halt the project. Since then, environmental groups have tried to keep Mitsui's presence in check. In june 1999, an aquifer was accidentally perforated causing the heavy situation of the Llamac River above the villages of Pocpa and Llamac. In the resulting confrontation between villagers and police who were guarding the mine , three villager were wounded when the police opened fire on protestors. The Cordillera Huayhuash has since officilaly became a Reserved Zone, which explicitly recognises the rights and traditional land use by local communities of this region. That case of the Huyahuash is common across the Andean and, hopefully, they should a more sustainable approach to use of natural resources should be taken. Some of the most beuatiful part of the Andes such as the Huayhuash should even gain the higher designation of a "Protected Landscape".
A third major issue presently threatening the Andean mountains is solid human waste and toilet paper. Many groups feel that it is unrealistic that they carry a bucket through the circuit for this purpose. The result is that boulders surrounding camps become smelly, unasanitary places. The cleanliness of the drinking water is under threat. As short-term solution, bring a steel shovel and dig small pit toilets. The long-term solution is to build pit or composting toilets. Trekkers and climbers can contribute to this cause by donating or volunteering with the organisation. (see: Best Practices: How to Build a Pit Toilet)
On Sustainability of Peruvian Andinism
The Peruvian Cordilleras are being visited every year by more and more climbers and trekkers. The most popular climbs and treks around Huaraz, Cusco or Arequipa are at risks to show wear and tear. It is the responsibility of both local and visiting communities to protect and keep clean these amazing ecosystems and to sustainably develop tourism economies.
Structure of Peruvian Andinism:
The Mountain Institute (TMI) based in Huaraz brings a quarter century of scientific, field-based experience to address challenges and opportunity facing mountain cultures, communities and conservation. TMI coordinates integrated education, community development, and cultural and natural-heritage conservation programs in the Himalayas, Andes, and Appalachians - the world's highest, longest and oldest mountain ranges respectively. TMI's Andean Program aims to culture build the capacities of institutions, communities, and individuals to design, implement, and monitor community-based programs throughout the Andes.
The Asociación de Guías de Montaña del Peru (AGMP) has been working for more than 20 years with the UIAGM to raise the level of training and expertise of the Peruvian andinism. Above 100 certified-guides are available for hire, freelance, through the Casa de Guias, or through agencies. Guiding prices are around USD 80 per day, but varies depending peak grading. The Casa de Guias de Huaraz (AGMP-RA) gather 85 guides and is well suited to promote sustainable mountain activities in the Huaraz area. On top of providing mountain informations, it can mobilise a rescue using the PGMA network. The AGMP RC (Cusco) gathers 7 guides and the AGMP RAQ (Arequipa) gathers 8 guides.
National and local authorities are playing an active role in protecting the eco-systems but limited actions to sustainably develop touristic activies. The SENARP established in 1975 the Huascaran National Park with the purpose to protect and conserve flora, fauna, geologic features and archeological sites, as well as managing the use of the park by trekkers, climbers and sightseers. The first aspect is well full-filled as attest the designation by UNESCO of International Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site as early as 1985. However, the development of touristic activities are controversial, as efforts from the Park administration to address problems caused by increased use of the more popular base camps are limited. Furthermore local communities are not benefiting from the touristic resources in there valley.
Sustainability of Peruvian Andinism:
* Promotion of Peruvian Andinism internationally is inexistant. Governemental and local authorities should coordinate this activities
* Problems caused by increased use of the more popular base camps, due to growing numbers of climbers especially in the Quebrada Santa Cruz to Llanganuco, is also a major concern. Although financing of improvement projects (eg. base camp toilets, ...) has started in 1997 with the set up of entry fees (NPS 65), initiatives remain sometime illogical - too bureaucratic.
* To improve sustainability of economic developments in Huaraz and the valleys, the administration of the Parque Nacional Huascaran should invovle local communities in environmental activies and touristic services. Individuals initiatives are usually slowed by bureaucratic measures. For example, a project for sustainable farming and tourisitic activities is being promoted by Christian Silva Lindo, a Huaraz aspirant-guide. "Pack Your Sense" includes productions of truits, woods and coca liquor by local communities, education programs of these local communities by certified-volonteers, and sustainable hostelling and touristic services to visiting communities. Located as the base of the Quebrada Ishinca, the administration of the Parque Nacional Huascaran should take measures to faciliate the implementation of such projects.
Resources:
* Alfredo Quintana Figueroa, MountClimb, Huaraz, 06.06.09
* Christian Silva Lindo, Aspirante Guia, www.breaking the iceperu.com, 06.06.09
* The Casa de Guias, Huaraz, +43 721811
* The Mountain Institute, Andean Regional Office, Huaraz - tmiperu@mail.cosapidata.com.pe
Structure of Peruvian Andinism:
The Mountain Institute (TMI) based in Huaraz brings a quarter century of scientific, field-based experience to address challenges and opportunity facing mountain cultures, communities and conservation. TMI coordinates integrated education, community development, and cultural and natural-heritage conservation programs in the Himalayas, Andes, and Appalachians - the world's highest, longest and oldest mountain ranges respectively. TMI's Andean Program aims to culture build the capacities of institutions, communities, and individuals to design, implement, and monitor community-based programs throughout the Andes.
The Asociación de Guías de Montaña del Peru (AGMP) has been working for more than 20 years with the UIAGM to raise the level of training and expertise of the Peruvian andinism. Above 100 certified-guides are available for hire, freelance, through the Casa de Guias, or through agencies. Guiding prices are around USD 80 per day, but varies depending peak grading. The Casa de Guias de Huaraz (AGMP-RA) gather 85 guides and is well suited to promote sustainable mountain activities in the Huaraz area. On top of providing mountain informations, it can mobilise a rescue using the PGMA network. The AGMP RC (Cusco) gathers 7 guides and the AGMP RAQ (Arequipa) gathers 8 guides.
National and local authorities are playing an active role in protecting the eco-systems but limited actions to sustainably develop touristic activies. The SENARP established in 1975 the Huascaran National Park with the purpose to protect and conserve flora, fauna, geologic features and archeological sites, as well as managing the use of the park by trekkers, climbers and sightseers. The first aspect is well full-filled as attest the designation by UNESCO of International Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site as early as 1985. However, the development of touristic activities are controversial, as efforts from the Park administration to address problems caused by increased use of the more popular base camps are limited. Furthermore local communities are not benefiting from the touristic resources in there valley.
Sustainability of Peruvian Andinism:
* Promotion of Peruvian Andinism internationally is inexistant. Governemental and local authorities should coordinate this activities
* Problems caused by increased use of the more popular base camps, due to growing numbers of climbers especially in the Quebrada Santa Cruz to Llanganuco, is also a major concern. Although financing of improvement projects (eg. base camp toilets, ...) has started in 1997 with the set up of entry fees (NPS 65), initiatives remain sometime illogical - too bureaucratic.
* To improve sustainability of economic developments in Huaraz and the valleys, the administration of the Parque Nacional Huascaran should invovle local communities in environmental activies and touristic services. Individuals initiatives are usually slowed by bureaucratic measures. For example, a project for sustainable farming and tourisitic activities is being promoted by Christian Silva Lindo, a Huaraz aspirant-guide. "Pack Your Sense" includes productions of truits, woods and coca liquor by local communities, education programs of these local communities by certified-volonteers, and sustainable hostelling and touristic services to visiting communities. Located as the base of the Quebrada Ishinca, the administration of the Parque Nacional Huascaran should take measures to faciliate the implementation of such projects.
Resources:
* Alfredo Quintana Figueroa, MountClimb, Huaraz, 06.06.09
* Christian Silva Lindo, Aspirante Guia, www.breaking the iceperu.com, 06.06.09
* The Casa de Guias, Huaraz, +43 721811
* The Mountain Institute, Andean Regional Office, Huaraz - tmiperu@mail.cosapidata.com.pe
On the Rapid Retreat of Glaciers in the Cordillera Blanca, Peru
There is now ample evidence of a major retreat of most mountain glaciers during the last 100 years in response to widespread increases in temperature. In recent decades, the rate of glacial recession has increased tremendously.
Mountain glaciers supply moisture to mountain forests during thedry and warm seasons. With retreating mountain glaciers, the risk of forest fires increases, with a subsequent reduction of forested areas. Smaller glaciers and diminishing forests lead to the drying up of rivers downstream during the dry seasons. Precipitation will more often come as rain during the winterand wash away at once instead of being stored as snow and then melt in the dry summer season.
Photographer Gary Braasch holding a 1932 photo of Broggi glacier near Huascaran in the Peruvian Andes, while rephotographing this receding glacier in 1999. Glaciers everywhere in the world (with a very few exceptions) have been shrinking throughout the 20th Century, a prime signal of rapid global warming. Loss of tropical glaciers is particularly rapid. This glacier, previously photographed by the Austrian Hans Kinzl, receded about one kilometer in 67 years.
Here is a series of other receding glaciers in "then and now" views
Glacier Ururashraju, at about 15,000 feet in Cordillera Blanca of Peru. Photographed in 1986 by Peruvian glaciologist Alcides Ames, whose studies and direction allowed Gary Braasch to rephotograph it in 1999.
Retreat of about 500 M. Ames studies confirms the very rapid deglaciation of the Cordillera Blanca, which is the most ice-covered mountain range in the tropics.
Mountain glaciers supply moisture to mountain forests during thedry and warm seasons. With retreating mountain glaciers, the risk of forest fires increases, with a subsequent reduction of forested areas. Smaller glaciers and diminishing forests lead to the drying up of rivers downstream during the dry seasons. Precipitation will more often come as rain during the winterand wash away at once instead of being stored as snow and then melt in the dry summer season.Ice Under Fire: Mountain Glaciers
Photographer Gary Braasch holding a 1932 photo of Broggi glacier near Huascaran in the Peruvian Andes, while rephotographing this receding glacier in 1999. Glaciers everywhere in the world (with a very few exceptions) have been shrinking throughout the 20th Century, a prime signal of rapid global warming. Loss of tropical glaciers is particularly rapid. This glacier, previously photographed by the Austrian Hans Kinzl, receded about one kilometer in 67 years.
Here is a series of other receding glaciers in "then and now" viewsGlacier Ururashraju, at about 15,000 feet in Cordillera Blanca of Peru. Photographed in 1986 by Peruvian glaciologist Alcides Ames, whose studies and direction allowed Gary Braasch to rephotograph it in 1999.
Retreat of about 500 M. Ames studies confirms the very rapid deglaciation of the Cordillera Blanca, which is the most ice-covered mountain range in the tropics.Best Practices: Former au français les équipes locales
Pour favoriser des échanges plus conviviaux avec les trekkeurs et élargir les débouchés professionnels des équipes locales, des agences internationales les incitent à se former au français. Depuis longtemps, Allibert participe au financement de ces formations dispensées par les alliances françaises, notamment à La Paz, Cusco. Ces formations concernent plus particulièrement les équipes bolivienne, péruvienne. En parallèle, en 2005, des livres en français collectés lors des opérations de dons organisées en France vers ces pays.
Case Study:
C’est parti depuis le 17 janvier 2005 pour l’équipe bolivienne, avec une première session de 78 heures de cours de français pour Antonio Sainz Lema, chauffeur et guide, Roberto Gomez, chauffeur et guide de montagne, niveau débutant, Edwin Vargas, porteur, et Eduardo Sainz Luna, guide, niveau avancé. L’équipe péruvienne avait commencé à suivre les cours depuis mars 2005, et ce pour trois mois. Après une interruption pendant la saison touristique, les cinq guides, Edy Mercado, Pilar Paucarmayta, Nancy Vilca, Nery Paucarmayta et Ines Serrano, avaient repris les cours en octobre pour à nouveau trois mois de perfectionnement. La semaine passée ensemble à échanger sur le métier de guide a permis de revoir certains aspects techniques comme l’utilisation du caisson hyperbare, mais aussi de parler français et d’aborder un vocabulaire spécifique à la montagne, qui faisait suite à la première session de printemps pendant laquelle les guides avaient appris les bases. Puisque l’on n’apprend pas une langue étrangère en quelques mois mais dans la durée, L alliance Franciaise a renouvele en 2006 ces cours de français délivrés aux équipes bolivienne et péruvienne. Les formations se poursuivent dans ces pays, les élèves les plus assidus continuent, d’autres, nouveaux, débutent.
Case Study:
C’est parti depuis le 17 janvier 2005 pour l’équipe bolivienne, avec une première session de 78 heures de cours de français pour Antonio Sainz Lema, chauffeur et guide, Roberto Gomez, chauffeur et guide de montagne, niveau débutant, Edwin Vargas, porteur, et Eduardo Sainz Luna, guide, niveau avancé. L’équipe péruvienne avait commencé à suivre les cours depuis mars 2005, et ce pour trois mois. Après une interruption pendant la saison touristique, les cinq guides, Edy Mercado, Pilar Paucarmayta, Nancy Vilca, Nery Paucarmayta et Ines Serrano, avaient repris les cours en octobre pour à nouveau trois mois de perfectionnement. La semaine passée ensemble à échanger sur le métier de guide a permis de revoir certains aspects techniques comme l’utilisation du caisson hyperbare, mais aussi de parler français et d’aborder un vocabulaire spécifique à la montagne, qui faisait suite à la première session de printemps pendant laquelle les guides avaient appris les bases. Puisque l’on n’apprend pas une langue étrangère en quelques mois mais dans la durée, L alliance Franciaise a renouvele en 2006 ces cours de français délivrés aux équipes bolivienne et péruvienne. Les formations se poursuivent dans ces pays, les élèves les plus assidus continuent, d’autres, nouveaux, débutent.Best Practices: Collecte de Livres en Français
Les alliances françaises de Cusco (Pérou) et La Paz (Bolivie) dispensent des cours de français, notamment aux équipes locales (guides, cuisiniers, muletiers, porteurs et chauffeurs) sontenues par des agences internationales. Afin d’appuyer cette enseignement, des collectes de livres en français ont ete organises et les livres ont ete acheminés sur place via des groupes de trekkeurs en partance pour ces destinations. Ces livres, dont les thèmes avaient été choisis par les alliances françaises en fonction de leurs besoins (au Pérou : des ouvrages sur la France, en Bolivie : des guides sur le pays et les Andes), avaient contribué à enrichir la formation de nos équipes locales et complété les bibliothèques, pour le plus grand bonheur des habitants de ces régions.
Case study, Allibert 06/04/2005
Après trois semaines de collecte à la librairie Gaia-Store de Grenoble, Allibert avez donné rendez-vous un week-end au Salon des randonnées nature aventure à Paris et, pendant 15 jours encore, à l’agence parisienne, pour laisser le temps à toutes les bonnes volontés de venir déposer des livres. Une fois les journées de collecte finies, les opérations se sont enchaînées rapidement. En plus de la generosite du publique, des editeurs comme Arthaud, Lonely Planet et Prima ont fait don d’une cinquantaine de livres chacun. Il a fallu plus de deux jours pour trier et emballer les quelque 80 kilos de livres récoltés ! Ensuite des trekkeurs se sont portés volontaires pour enregistrer ces cartons avec leurs bagages lors de leur départ pour la Bolivie ou le Pérou. Les cartons qui attendaient sagement leur départ pour les alliances françaises sont tous arrivés à bon port en octobre 2005. Les alliances françaises de Cusco et de La Paz ont été ravies par ces ouvrages, d’autant plus que les livres reçus en plusieurs exemplaires permettront d’étoffer les bibliothèques des alliances françaises de province.
Case study, Allibert 06/04/2005
Après trois semaines de collecte à la librairie Gaia-Store de Grenoble, Allibert avez donné rendez-vous un week-end au Salon des randonnées nature aventure à Paris et, pendant 15 jours encore, à l’agence parisienne, pour laisser le temps à toutes les bonnes volontés de venir déposer des livres. Une fois les journées de collecte finies, les opérations se sont enchaînées rapidement. En plus de la generosite du publique, des editeurs comme Arthaud, Lonely Planet et Prima ont fait don d’une cinquantaine de livres chacun. Il a fallu plus de deux jours pour trier et emballer les quelque 80 kilos de livres récoltés ! Ensuite des trekkeurs se sont portés volontaires pour enregistrer ces cartons avec leurs bagages lors de leur départ pour la Bolivie ou le Pérou. Les cartons qui attendaient sagement leur départ pour les alliances françaises sont tous arrivés à bon port en octobre 2005. Les alliances françaises de Cusco et de La Paz ont été ravies par ces ouvrages, d’autant plus que les livres reçus en plusieurs exemplaires permettront d’étoffer les bibliothèques des alliances françaises de province.
Best Practices: Organiser des Dons de Matériel
Equiper les équipes locales qui accompagnent les clients a commencé dans les années 80. Des collectes plus formelles s'organisent a l'initiatives d'Agences de trekking avant d’envoyer ces équipements aux équipes locales : l’ESF fournit chaque année les équipements techniques aux sherpas népalais ; Salomon fait profiter de ses chaussures “de test” haute montagne aux guides et porteurs kenyans. Cela ne va pas parfois sans quelques anecdotes croustillantes, comme en 2003, le fait de payer un très gros bakchich aux douaniers népalais pour débloquer les colis de collecte !
En 2005, en plus de l’apport de Petzl, qui avait doté de 200 lampes frontales les équipes sahariennes, a complete l'appel à générosité aupres de client d'Allibert. Aujourd’hui, Allibert poursuit ces opérations, même si le besoin en matériel change.
Case Study Allibert, 10/01/2007 :
L’avis de Jef Tripard, guide fondateur : “Quand nous partions en voyage de reconnaissance dans les années 80, nous emportions souvent dans nos bagages un sac de vêtements. Après une belle ascension, il était fréquent de laisser au porteur, au muletier ou au guide avec lequel on avait sympathisé notre paire de chaussures ou nos vêtements techniques. J’ai souhaité que cela continue à plus grande échelle.Aujourd’hui, nous n’avons plus besoin de recevoir du matériel, nous en avons suffisamment récolté lors de précédentes opérations.Par exemple, en 2005, nous avions eu un bilan très positif pour une opération de collecte qui nous avait permis de récolter plus de 400 kilos de matériels, et ce grâce à la générosité des randonneurs, de nos partenaires et de l’équipe Allibert.Les débuts très prometteurs obtenus à Toulouse lors de la soirée festive organisée pour le premier anniversaire de l’agence avaient été à la hauteur de nos espérances, puisque, après deux semaines de collecte, nous avions pu recueillir plus de 40 kilos de chaussures, sacs à dos, duvets, etc.Pour cette opération, Paris ne fut pas en reste ! Après trois jours seulement, 30 kilos de matériels s’étaient ajoutés à la récolte toulousaine.
L’opération s’était terminée en juin, en beauté : la collecte grenobloise avait atteint des sommets avec plus de 100 kilos de matériels collectés !” La proximité des montagnes et la période de collecte plus longue expliquent certainement ce succès.Votre générosité était au rendez-vous partout. Vous nous aviez rejoint jusqu’à Arrens, à l’occasion du festival Eldorando, pour remplir nos cartons de chaussures et sacs à dos.Une quarantaine de kilos de matériels étaient partis pour le Vietnam et le Kenya et, grâce au nombre important de dons, nous avions pu envoyer des polaires et carlines en Turquie et fournir l'équipe marocaine en lampes frontales, même si cela n’était pas prévu au départ ! Les cartons restants étaient partis vers le Pérou, la Bolivie et le Kenya. En 2006, nous avons continué à faire ces dons, et nous continuons à acheminer du matériel en 2007 grâce aux stocks que nous avons!
En 2005, en plus de l’apport de Petzl, qui avait doté de 200 lampes frontales les équipes sahariennes, a complete l'appel à générosité aupres de client d'Allibert. Aujourd’hui, Allibert poursuit ces opérations, même si le besoin en matériel change.
Case Study Allibert, 10/01/2007 :
L’avis de Jef Tripard, guide fondateur : “Quand nous partions en voyage de reconnaissance dans les années 80, nous emportions souvent dans nos bagages un sac de vêtements. Après une belle ascension, il était fréquent de laisser au porteur, au muletier ou au guide avec lequel on avait sympathisé notre paire de chaussures ou nos vêtements techniques. J’ai souhaité que cela continue à plus grande échelle.Aujourd’hui, nous n’avons plus besoin de recevoir du matériel, nous en avons suffisamment récolté lors de précédentes opérations.Par exemple, en 2005, nous avions eu un bilan très positif pour une opération de collecte qui nous avait permis de récolter plus de 400 kilos de matériels, et ce grâce à la générosité des randonneurs, de nos partenaires et de l’équipe Allibert.Les débuts très prometteurs obtenus à Toulouse lors de la soirée festive organisée pour le premier anniversaire de l’agence avaient été à la hauteur de nos espérances, puisque, après deux semaines de collecte, nous avions pu recueillir plus de 40 kilos de chaussures, sacs à dos, duvets, etc.Pour cette opération, Paris ne fut pas en reste ! Après trois jours seulement, 30 kilos de matériels s’étaient ajoutés à la récolte toulousaine.L’opération s’était terminée en juin, en beauté : la collecte grenobloise avait atteint des sommets avec plus de 100 kilos de matériels collectés !” La proximité des montagnes et la période de collecte plus longue expliquent certainement ce succès.Votre générosité était au rendez-vous partout. Vous nous aviez rejoint jusqu’à Arrens, à l’occasion du festival Eldorando, pour remplir nos cartons de chaussures et sacs à dos.Une quarantaine de kilos de matériels étaient partis pour le Vietnam et le Kenya et, grâce au nombre important de dons, nous avions pu envoyer des polaires et carlines en Turquie et fournir l'équipe marocaine en lampes frontales, même si cela n’était pas prévu au départ ! Les cartons restants étaient partis vers le Pérou, la Bolivie et le Kenya. En 2006, nous avons continué à faire ces dons, et nous continuons à acheminer du matériel en 2007 grâce aux stocks que nous avons!
Best Practices: Favoriser les échanges entre les guides
Afin de favoriser la formation de guides-accompagnateurs locaux et les échanges interculturels, Allibert invite certains d’entre eux à participer à un séjour dans les Alpes ou dans un autre pays où nous organisons des trekkings. Objectifs : rencontrer l’équipe Allibert de Chapareillan, échanger avec leurs collègues guides-accompagnateurs sur leur métier, découvrir des us et coutumes différents, randonner dans d’autres montagnes, voire retrouver des trekkeurs Allibert avec lesquels ils avaient sympathisé au cours de leur voyage… Tous repartent ravis de cette expérience. Depuis 2005, Allibert étend ce principe en invitant des guides locaux dans d’autres pays où nous sommes présents de longue date avec une équipe très compétente. Le Pérou, où Allibert organise des voyages depuis plus de 20 ans, en fait partie, et fut l’un des premiers à accueillir sur un trek deux guides boliviens.
Journal de bord:
Convaincre Cirilo, l’organisateur des voyages Allibert au Pérou, de faire participer des guides boliviens sur ses treks avait été facile : il était ravi que son équipe de guides fasse référence en Amérique du Sud. Il faut dire que Cirilo connais Allibert depuis 1984 : son père et lui ont accompagné Philippe Allibert au sommet lors de sa première expédition d’alpinisme, l’Ausagante, devenue depuis une classique. Côté bolivien, Edwin Vargas et Eduardo Sainz, deux jeunes guides de trekking, avaient été les heureux élus pour ce voyage. Ils étaient partis le 23 avril sur le trek Le Tour de L’Ausangate : du Machu Pichu à la cordillère de Vilcanota, en passant par la vallée Sacrée, ils ont découvert un condensé des richesses du Pérou, pays voisin de la Bolivie, mais qui leur était jusque-là inconnu. Mêlés aux trekkeurs, ils ont pu observer avec un regard neuf les différentes techniques utilisées par leurs collègues péruviens pour rendre un trek sûr et inoubliable. L’avis de Maurice et Dominique Thomas, trekkeurs sur ce voyage :“Nous avons été très heureux d’avoir parmi nous ces deux jeunes guides boliviens. Ils ont manifestement apporté un plus à notre voyage, en particulier par leurs qualités de musiciens, dont ils nous ont fait profiter chaque jour, et par leur passion pour leur pays, dont ils nous ont vanté la beauté et l’accueil des habitants, nous donnant envie d’y faire un prochain trek.”
Journal de bord:
Convaincre Cirilo, l’organisateur des voyages Allibert au Pérou, de faire participer des guides boliviens sur ses treks avait été facile : il était ravi que son équipe de guides fasse référence en Amérique du Sud. Il faut dire que Cirilo connais Allibert depuis 1984 : son père et lui ont accompagné Philippe Allibert au sommet lors de sa première expédition d’alpinisme, l’Ausagante, devenue depuis une classique. Côté bolivien, Edwin Vargas et Eduardo Sainz, deux jeunes guides de trekking, avaient été les heureux élus pour ce voyage. Ils étaient partis le 23 avril sur le trek Le Tour de L’Ausangate : du Machu Pichu à la cordillère de Vilcanota, en passant par la vallée Sacrée, ils ont découvert un condensé des richesses du Pérou, pays voisin de la Bolivie, mais qui leur était jusque-là inconnu. Mêlés aux trekkeurs, ils ont pu observer avec un regard neuf les différentes techniques utilisées par leurs collègues péruviens pour rendre un trek sûr et inoubliable. L’avis de Maurice et Dominique Thomas, trekkeurs sur ce voyage :“Nous avons été très heureux d’avoir parmi nous ces deux jeunes guides boliviens. Ils ont manifestement apporté un plus à notre voyage, en particulier par leurs qualités de musiciens, dont ils nous ont fait profiter chaque jour, et par leur passion pour leur pays, dont ils nous ont vanté la beauté et l’accueil des habitants, nous donnant envie d’y faire un prochain trek.”
Best Practices: Equiper des Camps de Base en Bolivie
La cordillère Royale est l’une des plus belles cordillères andines. Elle attire chaque année des trekkeurs venus admirer ses majestueux sommets glaciaires. Les campements, en amont des villages, ne sont souvent pas équipés de toilettes, et les besoins quotidiens de chacun souillent le paysage et polluent les eaux des rivières qui approvisionnent les villages en aval.
C est pourquoi Allibert a soutenu dès 2005 l’initiative d'équipes locales boliviennes, qui ont installés, avec l’aide des villageois, 10 toilettes sèches au camp de base du Condoriri. Cette operation suit la creation toilettes aux campements de cinq communautés : Kothia, Ajuani, Suriquina, Sistana et Jurilhota, lieux de passage du trek Les Cordillères Royale et Apolobamba.
Pour l’entretien de ces installations, les villageois font payer une très faible taxe aux agences de trek utilisant les campements et les toilettes, taxe qui permet de rémunérer une personne. Les bénéfices supplémentaires éventuels sont ensuite utilisés pour des projets communautaires (écoles, santé).
C’est Yves Pelissier, responsable Allibert Amérique latine, qui est à l’origine de cette idée. Enthousiaste, Oscar de l'agence Collibri, avait rapidement identifié les villages qui pourraient accueillir ces installations. Convaincre les villageois n’a pas été difficile : ils étaient enchantés pour leurs communautés. Pour eux, les bénéfices ont été directs : cela leur a permis de limiter la pollution des eaux et des terres, en transformant les déchets en matière fertile à travers le compostage, tout en profitant des retombées économiques pour soutenir leurs projets de développement local. Allibert a aidé Oscar à superviser ce projet en finançant les éléments onéreux, dont les portes en bois, et par des conseils techniques, obtenus auprès de l’association Toilettes du Monde, qui œuvre pour une gestion durable des déchets humains. Les travaux avaient démarré en mai : l'agence bolivienne avait fourni les matériaux de construction (ciment, etc.), et les villageois avaient participé bénévolement à l’installation des toilettes (acheminement des matériaux trouvés sur place, construction des fosses septiques, des “cabanes” en pierre et des toits de chaume).
Au total, 10 toilettes en pierre avec toit de chaume ont été construites au cours de l’été 2006. Ce ne sont finalement pas des toilettes sèches (pour des raisons d’entretien), mais des systèmes simples évacués par un tuyau qui rejoint une fosse sceptique vidangée annuellement. Les trekkeurs de passage payent 1 USD à la communauté pour la gestion du camp. Le succès de ce projet est reel, tant sur le plan environmental, que cote satisfaction des communautés locales et de trekkeurs.
References:
Yves Pelissier, Agence Allibert, 26.05.09
Oscar, Agence Collibri ( Sagarnaga, La Paz), 26.05.09
C est pourquoi Allibert a soutenu dès 2005 l’initiative d'équipes locales boliviennes, qui ont installés, avec l’aide des villageois, 10 toilettes sèches au camp de base du Condoriri. Cette operation suit la creation toilettes aux campements de cinq communautés : Kothia, Ajuani, Suriquina, Sistana et Jurilhota, lieux de passage du trek Les Cordillères Royale et Apolobamba.Pour l’entretien de ces installations, les villageois font payer une très faible taxe aux agences de trek utilisant les campements et les toilettes, taxe qui permet de rémunérer une personne. Les bénéfices supplémentaires éventuels sont ensuite utilisés pour des projets communautaires (écoles, santé).
C’est Yves Pelissier, responsable Allibert Amérique latine, qui est à l’origine de cette idée. Enthousiaste, Oscar de l'agence Collibri, avait rapidement identifié les villages qui pourraient accueillir ces installations. Convaincre les villageois n’a pas été difficile : ils étaient enchantés pour leurs communautés. Pour eux, les bénéfices ont été directs : cela leur a permis de limiter la pollution des eaux et des terres, en transformant les déchets en matière fertile à travers le compostage, tout en profitant des retombées économiques pour soutenir leurs projets de développement local. Allibert a aidé Oscar à superviser ce projet en finançant les éléments onéreux, dont les portes en bois, et par des conseils techniques, obtenus auprès de l’association Toilettes du Monde, qui œuvre pour une gestion durable des déchets humains. Les travaux avaient démarré en mai : l'agence bolivienne avait fourni les matériaux de construction (ciment, etc.), et les villageois avaient participé bénévolement à l’installation des toilettes (acheminement des matériaux trouvés sur place, construction des fosses septiques, des “cabanes” en pierre et des toits de chaume).
Au total, 10 toilettes en pierre avec toit de chaume ont été construites au cours de l’été 2006. Ce ne sont finalement pas des toilettes sèches (pour des raisons d’entretien), mais des systèmes simples évacués par un tuyau qui rejoint une fosse sceptique vidangée annuellement. Les trekkeurs de passage payent 1 USD à la communauté pour la gestion du camp. Le succès de ce projet est reel, tant sur le plan environmental, que cote satisfaction des communautés locales et de trekkeurs.
References:
Yves Pelissier, Agence Allibert, 26.05.09
Oscar, Agence Collibri ( Sagarnaga, La Paz), 26.05.09
Best Practices: Nettoyage de la cordillère de Huayhuash
La Cordilliere Huayhuash est l'un des plus beaux massifs montagneux des Andes, et un des trekks les plus courus du Perou. Chaque année, plusieurs groupes se rendent dans ces paysages entre laguna, hauts sommets et petits villages de montagne. Mais ici aussi, la question des déchets se pose.
L'agence québécoise Karavaniers et francaise Allibert ont entrepris de s attaquer a ce probleme.
Case Sutdy: Le 11/12/2007, Alibert and Karavaniers
Menée par Robert Lavoie, guide québécois, cette première opération de nettoyage de la cordillière de Huayhuash s'est déroulée du 22 au 31 juillet en présence d' une équipe péruvienne, des québécois de Karavaniers et d'un représentant Allibert de l'équipe péruvienne. Les six participants, pourvus d'une armada de 16 ânes, etaient partis de Quartelhuain au nord de cette superbe cordillère, malheureusement souillée par une quantité grandissante de déchets. L'ampleur de la tâche sautait aux yeux, en quelques heures, ils ramasserent trois grands sacs de jute de déchets. A la fin de la première journée, 6 sacs seront emplis à ras bord. Tous etaient épuisés, mais la journée n'etait pas terminée puisqu'il fallait faire le tri. Plastique, conserves et papiers ont ete mis de côté. Mais il faudra brûler une partie des déchets... Dommage que cet itinéraire superbe soit si peu protégé ! En chemin, ils ont fait de leur mieux pour sensibiliser un maximum de gens : les enfants dans les écoles, les voyageurs internationaux, les autres équipes locales. Mais le nettoyage est et restera un travail de longue haleine...
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On Sustainability of Bolivian Andinism
Despite the fact that the Incas worshipped mountains as gods, no evidence exists to suggest that Indians climbed in the eastern cordilleras of Bolivia. Some religion-based fear of mountains remains, along with a legend that an Indian shepherd climbed Illimani, never to return. The absence of climbing activity continued after the Spanish conquest, again, unlike in other Latin American countries. First ascents in Bolivia were attempted in May 1877 by French geographer Charles Wiener on Illimani. This attempt was the birth of andinism in Bolivia.
Although the Club Andino Boliviano was created in the 1930's, Andine tourism really took off in the 1960's, only to remain confidential with regards to affluence in other Andean regions. Today, only couple of thousands of Andinists climb in Bolivia, and these concentrate on peaks around La Paz, chiefly Huayna Potosi
Structure of Bolivian Andinism:
The Association de Guias de Montana y Trekking is a structuring organisation that promotes professional montagnes services in Bolivia. It is one of the guides associations affiliated to the UIAGM in South America (the other being Peru and Argentina) and gather 20 guides and 13 aspirants. Beside quality guiding services, its role is to train Aspirantes and new recrues, and provide rescue services in mountains, as no public services exist. It collaborate internationally (ENSA, Val d Aoste, ...) on a number of projects to develop guiding services in Bolivia. It trains as well guides from Equator, Chile and Venezuella.
Other key actors are local communities. Neighbouring villages have developped services to suits local tourists needs, including Base camp facilities (trails, placements, toilets and water), porter and mule services. This is the case at Sajama, Illimani, Sorata and Huayna Potosi.
However, under the Bolivian legislation, tourist agences still play a pivotal role as they are the compulsory contracting entities for tourists. Guides, porters, mules and vehicules need to be contracted via agencies.
The Club Andino Boliviano (calle Mexico, La Paz), which was founded as early as the 1930s, has lost influence. It traditionally focused its activities on skiing around La Paz, and with glacier melting and the closing of ski resorts in the early 2000s, the CAB does not play any significant role in the development of Andinism.
The Authorities have not been really concerned with the development of mountains activities in Bolivia todate. As a results, little legislations regulate mountains services.
Sustainability of Bolivian Andinism
Agencies are very active in the street of La Paz, but do not play the structuring role they should in developing Bolivian Andinism:
* They are highly fragmented and do not significantly raise the voice of Bolivian Andinism internationally - need to raise awareness of bolivan Andinism
* They focus on providing logistic services at low costs to tourists, jeopardising safety by prefering porters to guides - need for efficient regulations on guiding services
Environmental impact of Andine tourism is limited as the mass of tourists is low, and both visitors and locals are acting increasingly responsibly.
* Main base and high camps are equiped with toilets and running water were possible
* Garbages and plastic residues are collected adequately
Sources:
* Aldo Riveros, Presidente, Asociacion de Guias de Montaña y Trekking de Bolivia , 21.05.2009
* Alain Messili, The Andes of Bolivia, 2005
* Yossi Brain, Bolivia, 1999
Although the Club Andino Boliviano was created in the 1930's, Andine tourism really took off in the 1960's, only to remain confidential with regards to affluence in other Andean regions. Today, only couple of thousands of Andinists climb in Bolivia, and these concentrate on peaks around La Paz, chiefly Huayna Potosi
Structure of Bolivian Andinism:
The Association de Guias de Montana y Trekking is a structuring organisation that promotes professional montagnes services in Bolivia. It is one of the guides associations affiliated to the UIAGM in South America (the other being Peru and Argentina) and gather 20 guides and 13 aspirants. Beside quality guiding services, its role is to train Aspirantes and new recrues, and provide rescue services in mountains, as no public services exist. It collaborate internationally (ENSA, Val d Aoste, ...) on a number of projects to develop guiding services in Bolivia. It trains as well guides from Equator, Chile and Venezuella.Other key actors are local communities. Neighbouring villages have developped services to suits local tourists needs, including Base camp facilities (trails, placements, toilets and water), porter and mule services. This is the case at Sajama, Illimani, Sorata and Huayna Potosi.
However, under the Bolivian legislation, tourist agences still play a pivotal role as they are the compulsory contracting entities for tourists. Guides, porters, mules and vehicules need to be contracted via agencies.
The Club Andino Boliviano (calle Mexico, La Paz), which was founded as early as the 1930s, has lost influence. It traditionally focused its activities on skiing around La Paz, and with glacier melting and the closing of ski resorts in the early 2000s, the CAB does not play any significant role in the development of Andinism.
The Authorities have not been really concerned with the development of mountains activities in Bolivia todate. As a results, little legislations regulate mountains services.
Sustainability of Bolivian Andinism
Agencies are very active in the street of La Paz, but do not play the structuring role they should in developing Bolivian Andinism:
* They are highly fragmented and do not significantly raise the voice of Bolivian Andinism internationally - need to raise awareness of bolivan Andinism
* They focus on providing logistic services at low costs to tourists, jeopardising safety by prefering porters to guides - need for efficient regulations on guiding services
Environmental impact of Andine tourism is limited as the mass of tourists is low, and both visitors and locals are acting increasingly responsibly.
* Main base and high camps are equiped with toilets and running water were possible
* Garbages and plastic residues are collected adequately
Sources:
* Aldo Riveros, Presidente, Asociacion de Guias de Montaña y Trekking de Bolivia , 21.05.2009
* Alain Messili, The Andes of Bolivia, 2005
* Yossi Brain, Bolivia, 1999
Actions for Sustainable Alpine Tourism
Commonly accepted: Sustainibility of mountain travel and its impact on local populations and ecosystems is unfortunately not specifically taken into account by travellers and governments ... Beyond exploring peaks, we aim to combine our mountaineering expeditions with a sense of eco-activism:
Share with us:
- your experience on positive / negative impacts of alpine tourism on mountain local populations and ecosystems
- your insight into best practices conducted by local and visiting communities
- your views on how to improve current situations
- and of course, how to raise awareness on this issue
Share with us:
- your experience on positive / negative impacts of alpine tourism on mountain local populations and ecosystems
- your insight into best practices conducted by local and visiting communities
- your views on how to improve current situations
- and of course, how to raise awareness on this issue
Exploring the Alps, Andes, Himalaya - and Beyond ...
More than a passion, alpinism is a mean to apprehend differently alpine geographies and cultures.
Sustainibility of mountain travel and its impact on local populations and ecosystems is not specifically taken into account by travellers and governments ...
Beyond exploring peaks, we aim to combine our mountaineering expeditions with a sense of eco-activism:
- To assess the effect of tourism and alpinism on mountain life and ecosystems
- To project what development might lead in the future
- To raise awareness of positive and negative impacts and report best practices conducted by local and visiting communities
We believe sharing and communicating our learnings can improve the impact of tourism and alpinism on mountain local populations and ecosystems.
Join and support us!
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