Natalia Tabaka: The Carpathians are energy and meaning. We have to preserve and develop them consciously
16 October 21:12
EXCLUSIVE
Preserving the nature and identity of the Carpathian region is the key to sustainable tourism. This was stated by Natalia Tabaka, head of the State Agency for Tourism Development (DART), during the business discussion “Bukovel as a ‘magnet’ for investment: has the last train left the station?”
According to Natalia Tabaka, DART is actively working on the development of the Carpathian region, in particular, on the Small Carpathian Ring project, which should make traveling in the region more accessible and safe, without congested routes.
The Ukrainian Carpathians brand is strong. Personally, I’m against the name “Ukrainian Alps” – it’s completely different. The Carpathians are green, alive, full of energy. Therefore, their identity should be preserved,” the official said.
Tabaka also emphasized the importance of developing tourism not only through winter sports, but also through preserving nature and cultural heritage:
“Together with our Polish colleagues from the Ministry of Sports and Tourism, we are implementing cross-border projects to develop the Carpathians. It’s nice that the service sector is being developed here not only for skiing and snowboarding, but also for nature, culture, and immersion in local identity,” says Natalia Tabaka.
The head of DART paid special attention to the tourist tax, which, according to her, is not a burden for business but a contribution to community development. At the same time, many hoteliers do not pay it.
“The tourist tax is an important indicator of economic activity, but today only about 10% of the possible amount is collected. This is not a burden for business, but a tourist’s contribution to community development. These funds allow us to improve infrastructure, from lighting to recreation areas,” she explained.
Among the environmental challenges, Tabaka mentioned the damage caused by jeeps and ATVs, which destroy nature and interfere with tourist routes.
According to her, special attention should be paid to the damage caused by jeeps and ATVs, which destroy nature and interfere with tourist routes, especially for people with disabilities. Responsibility for the damage caused, control by the police and local authorities is necessary. But so far, only a few activists have raised these issues.
DART is currently implementing two important projects for the development of the region:
- “Places of Memory” – about the heroism and tragedy of the war, for domestic and foreign tourists;
- “Paths of Mental Recovery” – about outdoor recreation and cultural routes.
Summarizing, Natalia Tabaka emphasized.
“The Carpathians are energy, silence and meaning. We must consciously preserve and develop them,” the official summarized.
As written by
