San Carlos, Colombia is nestled in the jungle-coated hills of the Cordillera Occidental, the westernmost branch of the northern Andes. Known in the Antioquia district for its plentiful water resources, the region boasts 6 clear rivers, 76 streams, and over 50 tumbling waterfalls. The dramatic topography extends into three distinct climatic zones, resulting in unique and incredibly varied flora and fauna. Unfortunately, these resources, like so many in the world, are in danger due to economic strains.
Impactful Industries
Most of the major economic drivers in the region are not very harmonious with the natural world. San Carlos is known as the hydroelectric capital of Colombia because there are many dams on the rivers that produce energy for the country. This industry has its pros and cons for the region. On one hand, the dams provide jobs and economic stimulation, and the renewable energy generated is more environmentally sustainable than other forms of energy. On the other hand, the dams have displaced people from their land, and the companies that operate them are often foreign-owned and private. This means that companies in Canada and France profit while charging high electricity prices to residents of San Carlos for their own natural resources. The dams also disturb fish and rivers.
A popular swimming spot
One of the most contentious issues in San Carlos right now is mining. The region contains quite a bit of gold and other precious metals, and many foreign companies have applied for mining titles. The most common form of extracting these metals is dredge mining. If dredge mining companies were allowed to operate here, they would pay a cut to the government and get to take most of the profit, leaving the people in the area with no direct benefit and a lot of cleanup. Mining is an invasive process that causes erosion and deforestation which lead to other environmental issues, especially in waterways, which for a place like San Carlos is a big deal.
Residents of San Carlos protest mining
Since the steep terrain prevents much farming, the main land use in San Carlos is grazing. Cows fetch a good price in Colombia, are relatively low maintenance, and can navigate steep hills, so many people are drawn to this source of income. Unfortunately, people clear-cut their land to graze cattle, so it's a pretty high impact industry environmentally.
A Hopeful Alternative
Luckily, one of the most important and quickly growing industries of San Carlos has the potential to be more harmonious with the environment while financially supporting the residents of the town. Eco-tourism is gaining speed in the pueblo as people catch on to its natural beauty. Visitors find plentiful opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventure, including canyoning, swimming, and hiking. Many people from Medellin and surrounding cities enjoy long weekends and holidays in San Carlos to relax and trade honking horns for chirping birds. There really is something special about this gorgeous little town; it's lively and vibrant but at the same time incredibly tranquilo. Come visit and see for yourself!
Some of the many colorful buildings of San Carlos