THE INTEGRAL IMPACT OF COOPCOLORADO IN SAN JUAN NEPOMUCENO, BOLIVAR, COLOMBIA: AN EXPERIENCE OF SOCIAL AND SOLIDARITY ECONOMY.

Abstract

In San Juan Nepomuceno, a Colombian Caribbean region rich in biodiversity, the Los Colorados Ecotourism Cooperative (hereafter Coopcolorado) stands out as an experience of social and solidarity economy (SSE). The objective of this article is to analyze the integral impact of this entity on environmental conservation, local economic development, improvement in the quality of life of its members and post-conflict inclusion. Through an ethnographic and qualitative approach, it explores how the cooperative contributes to the revitalization of the economy and the strengthening of social cohesion. The research shows that this social economy entity has integrated sustainable practices in its operations and has promoted a model of ecological tourism that benefits both the natural environment and the local community, generating an environment of social rehabilitation by providing constructive opportunities for young people affected by the armed conflict. The study also reveals that, through community participation and the promotion of shared values, the cooperative contributes significantly to social repair and sustainable economic growth, becoming a positive model of development and collaboration.