¿Cuál es el valor del patrimonio marino de un área arrecifal protegida?: El contexto del Sistema Arrecifal Mesoamericano

Abstract

The coral reef provides aesthetic, economic and eco systemic benefits, although rarely we recognize the heritage value assigned by dependent populations. This case of study analyzes two international diving destinations in Marine Parks of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS). There, this marine heritage is partially managed in a participative way, and without reference points for the assigned value. Applying Contingent Valuation, we determined the locally assigned value to the reef. Without asserting that conservation strategies have permeated to the settler, 98% of respondents expressed willingness to fund partially actions in favor to the reef. The main reef values are the tourism per se, and the intangible values such as the own existence and the benefits that they may inherit. Implications are discussed in view of growing demand for this ecosystem. (English) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]