One year after the establishment of the «Natural Protected Areas (NPA) Day» in Peru, we must look back and understand that, although we already have a date in our calendar to remember them, we still have a long way to go to recognize their real impact on our daily lives, in particular, on the future of our societies. We have internalized and recognized quite satisfactorily the value of NPAs in a proper functioning of the ecosystem and, therefore, we are aware of their role in the huge network that makes our planet continue to breathe every day. However, we have not become aware of the benefits that biological diversity generates by providing us with environmental goods and services, as well as food for our daily lives. From NPAs we not only receive food and water, but also the air quality that allows us to breathe every day.
They are responsible for climate regulation, wastewater treatment and even for stopping the spread of pests. And needless to say, now in the midst of a difficult situation like COVID-19, and which has had a profound impact on those nearly 4 million people who have a mental health problem, we have valued them even more.
On the other hand, its water resource is not only an indispensable source for the country, but also the water it generates for domestic consumption alone is valued at USD 81 million dollars annually. Similarly, for energy use, it is valued at USD 320.5 million dollars, and for agricultural production, at USD 513.9 million dollars. On the other hand, if we delve deeper into their economic potential, we find that for every dollar invested in tourist NPAs, US$146 is generated in the national economy. According to an analysis by Conservation Strategy Fund, this figure reached 2,340 million soles in 2017, which meant the creation of 36,000 jobs in and around protected areas.
We conclude then that NPAs are both a source of food supplies, as well as a viable and sustainable option to – if managed correctly – generate remarkable revenues for countries. And despite all the positive impact they generate, Sernanp has estimated that in order to ensure the financial sustainability of NPAs, there is a financial gap of US$20 million per year.
It is from this challenge that the Peruvian Natural Heritage Initiative (Patrimonio Natural del Perú – PdP) was born, as the best alternative to unite companies, the public sector and citizens in order to conserve the nature that we love and need so much. Today, on NPA Day, as Profonanpe we reaffirm our purpose of promoting the sustainability of life by connecting humanity with the environment, promoting and accompanying the Natural Heritage of Peru Initiative.
Let us strengthen our joint work and contribute today to the future we desire. We need more than ever to recognize that protecting and strengthening the management of our Natural Areas is the best investment for our present. Our sons and daughters deserve it, our daily life needs it.
