As stewards of “fragile” ecosystems, the Caribbean must prioritize the need for ‘green investments and environmentally conscious practices’ with a sense of urgency.”
This statement was made by the newly-appointed Secretary-General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, Dona Regis-Prosper, during the recent regional forum commemorating World Tourism Day 2023, held on Friday.
Regis-Prosper explored the three fundamental pillars supporting this year’s World Tourism Day theme, emphasizing the Caribbean’s dedication to sustainability as it aims to take the lead in sustainable tourism.
“As a global brand, Caribbean tourism must continue to embrace best practices in environmental, social and governance activities that demonstrate our commitment to future generations,” Regis-Prosper said.
In the Caribbean, there are small islands that have already started with their green initiatives, like the eight eastern Caribbean states (Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines) that are currently developing their own geothermal energy plants. Dominica, meanwhile, has been championing the construction of climate-resilient infrastructure, such as houses and other public facilities, with the help of private developing company MMC Development Ltd.
Regis-Prosper also highlighted the importance of prioritizing people-centered tourism, emphasizing the necessity of addressing the knowledge and skills gap in the Caribbean.
“Research confirms what those of us in the tourism and travel industry know firsthand – that inter-personal, face-to-face interactions with others play a significant part in the visitor experience,” she said.
The Secretary-General also stressed and “the need for public-private sector and community collaborations to enhance benefits from tourism,” backing the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s appeal for fresh and inventive solutions and investments that foster and reinforce growth, productivity, and sustainability within the tourism sector.
“We believe the Caribbean should lead, and not follow, on investing in a healthy, sustainable, and productive future for the prosperity of our people and our planet,” Regis-Prosper concluded.
