Experts urge environmentally responsible development in Cabo Rojo

Santo Domingo.- Environmental experts have stressed that the tourism development of Cabo Rojo in Pedernales must strictly respect the region’s ecological integrity, particularly its protected areas. At a recent conference on the sustainability of the National System of Protected Areas (SINAP), held at the Autonomous University of Santo Domingo (UASD), several environmental leaders called for a responsible model that avoids repeating the mistakes of other Dominican tourist destinations and ensures that benefits directly reach local communities.

Yvonne Arias of Grupo Jaragua highlighted the significance of protecting the Jaragua-Bahoruco-Enriquillo Biosphere Reserve, designated by UNESCO, and urged that the region’s biodiversity be integrated into the project’s core.  Other speakers, including UASD’s Luis Carvajal and environmentalist José Manuel Mateo, insisted that development plans must follow environmental laws, involve local populations, and align with national development goals. They warned against models where outside investors reap the benefits while sidelining communities. Víctor Almánzar emphasized the importance of maintaining Cabo Rojo’s environmental protection status, despite its Category VI classification under the IUCN.

These remarks came shortly after the announcement that the Cabo Rojo Consortium, led by Grupo Puntacana, was selected as the State’s strategic and minority partner for the region’s tourism development. Sigmund Freund, executive director of the Pro-Pedernales Trust, stated that the consortium was chosen after a rigorous technical and financial review for having the best proposal.