Rural Tourism and Environmental Conservation: The Participation of Peasant Women in the Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve, Veracruz, Mexico

Abstract

Currently, women venture into various productive areas without neglecting their central role within the domestic unit. However, there are areas, especially rural areas, where the incorporation of women in economic activities can contribute to improving both their personal perception and their life conditions. The objective of the research was to analyze the participation of women in environmental conservation from rural tourism in the ejido Adolfo Lopez Mateos, located in the Protected Natural Area Reserve of the Biosphere the Tuxtlas, Veracruz, identifying its contribution in the development sustainable local. The methodological contributions of Canada and Gascon (2007) regarding rural tourism were considered, as well as Knight and Cottrell (2015) regarding the empowerment and participation of women. A qualitative field research was carried out in the place of study, based on interviews directed to women who work in the tourist activity. It is concluded that peasant women are able to contribute to sustainable local development, from their incorporation into the offer of tourism services and the harmonious relationship and respect for natural and cultural resources, thus allowing their conservation for future generations.