FRG25 EE-RESPECT–Ethic- Tropical Forest

The Carbet Falls are one of the most visited natural sites in the region. They attract thousands of visitors each year, both local and international tourists. Their spectacular beauty and accessibility make them a popular place for hiking and ecotourism. However, this high level of attendance can put significant pressure on the environment, particularly through trampling of paths, soil erosion and waste production. The National Forestry Office is setting up suitable infrastructure to channel visitors and limit their impact on the ecosystem, in particular by creating marked trails and awareness campaigns for responsible tourism.

An educational hike allowed teachers to observe different plant species, including tree ferns, palm trees and wild orchids.

It was also an opportunity to experience the very humid tropical climate in the forest.

The Carbet Falls are not only a remarkable natural site, they also have great historical significance. During the slave era, these dense and difficult-to-access forests served as a refuge for runaway slaves, called maroons. The latter fled the plantations and found refuge in the heights, where they organized resistance communities. Maroonage was a form of struggle against colonial oppression, and these forests played a central role in their survival, providing protection and natural resources. Today, the Carbet Falls remain a powerful symbol of this history and the resistance of enslaved populations.

This visit was very enriching and allowed participants to deepen their knowledge of the rainforest and its challenges. It prompted reflection on the need to adopt responsible behaviors to protect this unique environment. We became aware of the role that everyone can play through simple actions such as reducing waste, respecting marked trails and raising awareness about preserving biodiversity.