The National Park of Guadeloupe is part of “Esprit Parc National,” a project developed in France and overseas. A brand attributed to products and services whose activities help preserve biodiversity and natural heritage.
Coral reefs, mangroves, tropical forests, the volcanic soil of La Soufrière… The National Park of Guadeloupe is home to ecosystems of an exceptional richness. In order to contribute to the preservation of such ecosystems , it was decided in July 2015 to support, develop, and promote the brand “Esprit Parc National,” or National Park Spirit. Thistrademark originally born in Guadeloupe has since been attributed to 11 French National Parks, but is exclusively awarded to those parks with activities that preserve their biodiversity and their natural heritage. This is a way to showcase service providers and partners who share the same values as the national parks: commitment to the preservation of biodiversity; respect of natural and cultural heritage; and authenticity of products and projects. “We work with companies that are on a human scale and want to get involved,” explains Laure-Alice Major, director of Sustainable Tourism for the National Park of Guadeloupe. “These businesses stand out for their work on such themes as biodiversity and sustainable development.” Often family-run, they also stand out for their strong traditions and savoir-faire, frequently passed down from generation to generation.
To date, Guadeloupe counts 41 beneficiaries from nine different sectors including lodging, restaurants, and local products. “They are numerous and they are all interesting!” says Laure-Alice Major. Jardin des Colibris in Deshaies, Exploitation Diomar in Gourbeyre, the sustainable beekeeping of Myel”aw, the syrups and infusions of Karupodha… no lack of examples that are in perfect sync with nature. “They all have the same attachment to the protection of the environment and the respect of local culture. They all share the same values,” adds Laure-Alice Major. They also share geographic proximity as they are located in the 21 towns in the area of the national park, from Port Louis to Basse-Terre.
“The branding allows them to draw on the network of national parks and have recognition on a local, national, and even international level,” notes Laure-Alice Major. In addition to this recognition, being part of the Esprit Parc National brand attracts consumers who want to make mindful purchases. Knocking on the door of one of the beneficiaries is also a means to meet the men and women who share their passion for nature and authenticity.
MORE INFORMATIONS
Site du Parc national de Guadeloupe :
http://www.guadeloupe-parcnational.fr
Guide pratique Esprit Parc national Guadeloupe
https://fr.calameo.com/read/0050508901423fecd2d30
Auteur : Agnès Monlouis-Félicité
