Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Owing to the presence of a penal colony, this island and its surrounding waters re-
mained long untouched, but now that the prison has been phased out, developers and
members of the government see glorious tourism possibilities for this ecological gem.
There are concerns that big development plans would destroy the fragile ecosystem.
In the past, the unregulated presence of cruise ships has caused disturbing situations,
with sometimes as many as 200 tourists visiting the tiny snorkeling island of Granito de
Oro - a number that is outrageously unsustainable. Little is being done to preserve the
penal colony as a historic site; unfortunately, it is deteriorating rapidly.
ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS
Though there is little public sensitivity to environmental issues in Panama, a num-
ber of organizations strive to protect the environment and biodiversity.
Alianza para la Conservación y Desarrollo(ACD; 223-9170)is an NGO em-
ploying community education and advocacy for conservation, and sustainable al-
ternatives for the indigenous and protected areas of Panama.
ANCON
(
www.ancon.org
)
Founded in 1985 by academic and business leaders,
ANCON has played a major role in the creation of national parks and on many oc-
casions has spurred ANAM into action.
Audubon Society
( 232-5977;
www.audubonpanama.org
; Casa No 2006-B,
Llanos de Curundu, Panama City)Promoting birds in Panama for more than 35
years, with over 20 bird-watching field trips every year. Find upcoming events on-
line.
Centro de Incidencia Ambiental
(CIAM; 262-8831;
www.ciampanama.org
)Pro-
motes environmental advocacy through grass-roots campaigns.
Fundación Albatros Media
( 317-3450;
www.albatrosmedia.com
; Ciudad del
Saber, Panama City)Quality environmental documentaries on Panama.
Fundación Avifauna Eugene Eisenmann
(
Click here
) Promotes the preservation of
tropical forest to support Panama's astounding diversity of bird life. Created the
Panama Rainforest Discovery Center on Pipeline Rd.
Fundación Mar Viva
( 317-4350;
www.marviva.net
;
Ciudad del Saber 168,
Panama City)Patrols protected marine areas in Costa Rica and Panama with the
goal of ending illegal fishing and replenishing marine life. Also promotes conserva-
tion and sustainable use of marine resources.
Nature Conservancy
( 317-0328;
www.nature.org
; Ciudad del Saber 352 A/B,
Panama City)Prominent international conservation agency working extensively in
