The vanguard in terms of ecotourism
Benin Ecotourism Concern (Eco-Benin) is a non-governmental organization founded in Benin in 1999. It promotes ecotourism and local development projects throughout Benin in the name of "responsible, equitable, and united human development."
Ecotourism is used by Eco-Benin as an economic pillar for the development of local communities, either in regions where traditional income sources such as fishing or agriculture are declining or in areas with threatened natural and cultural heritage. The NGO's activities aim to develop simple tourist services that, above all, benefit the host communities and help to protect their natural resources and cultural identities.
To that end, the NGO Eco-Bénin works to not only fairly distribute travel receipts among communities but also to develop and improve natural resources. Since its inception in 1999, Eco-Benin has implemented a Carbon Action Plan whose objectives include the planting of mangroves in the Ramsar 1017 site and the promotion of improved stoves in national parks. Furthermore, the actions taken to develop the local economy are diverse: the construction of ecolodges; the rehabilitation of farms, the development of eco-museums, the construction of campsites, homestay accommodation; and many others.
Tip 101: When planning your trip, don't forget to take a look at the Eco-Benin website, which lists eco-villages, lots of tips for responsible travel and especially conservation projects underway.
