OTWO Magazine January 2020 | Page 48

tisan field, and improving trading, supporting local markets and the interaction with local bars and res- taurants as well as exports of high-quality products. Main food brands and the Andalusia Natural Park name play an essential role for this purpose. Tourism connected with Natural Parks and the countryside has experienced a significant boost in recent years. The increasing demand for nature ac- tivities is contributing to the diversification of a pro- duct that is no longer so dependent on the seasonality that shapes the coastal tourist offer. The Sustainable Development Plan intends to ensure that the real po- tential contributes to local wealth. Tourism in Natural Parks ought to spread values among visitors. Supporting investment, especially the one that makes use of local natural resources and green eco- 46 nomy, the enhancement of entrepreneur cooperation and a cooperative management of production, trans- formation and sensible marketing, supporting further investigation in natural resources and the improve- ment of production systems are also general issues embraced by the Sustainable Development Plans. The connection between local residents and the Natural Park is a decisive factor to ensure its conser- vation and the success of development plans. Even if such relation has improved considerably over the years, to strengthen it is a must, promoting the fee- ling of belonging to a specific place and acknowled- ging its financial potential. This is why environmental education and the link between the Natural Park and its people are, adding to volunteer schemes, essen- tial issues for any Sustainable Development Scheme. OTWO 06 / JANUARY 2020 OTWO 06 / JANUARY 2020 47