Ecotourism and fair trade in Guatemala
Just 4 years ago, the community of Nueva Alianza wasn’t sure how they would survive. After working hard for generations for the sole benefit of the coffee and macadamia plantation owner, they were left with nothing after the owner declared bankruptcy (due to the global drop in the price of coffee) and fled, still owing them 18 months of back pay.
Today, this small community in the mountainous slopes of the Sierra Madres in El Palmar looks quite different. They no longer live their lives in fear working under the slave-like conditions of the owner but are working collectively, for the benefit of all 40 Guatemalan families in the cooperative. Thanks to sustainable projects like organic coffee and macadamia nut production, bio-diesel production, hydro-electric power, and a purified bottled water facility, Nueva Alianza has greatly improved their quality of life.Another project that has made a significant difference is a thriving ecotourism program through support from Café Conciencia, (an international,non-profit organization that works in solidarity with worker-owned coffee cooperatives in Guatemala to help them achieve social and economic justice). Nueva Alianza offers accommodation and meals in their own eco-lodge,guided tours of the finca and projects with English translation,including stops at beautiful waterfalls. This effort has also stimulated international interest and Nueva Alianza has received support from many different organizations.
For more information about tours to Nueva Alianza, contact Claire (502)5047-2238 at Café Conciencia: 12 Av. 3-35, Zona 1, Quetzaltenango. [email protected]
http://www.comunidadnuevaalianza.org/
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