The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) and Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST), in partnership with The Nature Conservancy, has launched a powerful new initiative spotlighting the tourism industry’s role in protecting our region’s precious coral reefs. At the heart of this launch is the Caribbean Coral Reef Stewardship Best Practices Brief—a strategic resource designed to empower hotels, resorts, dive operators, and tourism partners with actionable methods to help restore and protect coral ecosystems.
Released alongside the winners of the inaugural Caribbean Coral Reef Tourism Stewardship Awards, this milestone publication and event highlight the Caribbean’s commitment to sustainable tourism, environmental leadership, and climate resilience.
🔗 Download the Best Practices Brief (PDF)
🔗 Read the Full Press Release
🔗 Watch the Launch Webinar
The Caribbean Coral Reef Stewardship Best Practices Brief captures three standout models of coral reef conservation led by tourism operators across the region. It outlines replicable strategies for reef restoration through coral gardening, marine protected areas, youth engagement, and stakeholder partnerships. Each case illustrates how environmental stewardship can also fuel community development, local livelihoods, and unforgettable visitor experiences.
From lionfish removal events that double as eco-tourism celebrations in Grenada, to Jamaica’s pioneering marine sanctuaries and guest-engaged reef gardening at luxury resorts, the Brief shows how tourism businesses can lead the way in building reef-resilient futures.
1 – Aquanauts Grenada
Through its innovative Lionfish Bites & Beats festival and youth scholarship programs, Aquanauts has removed invasive lionfish while empowering local conservationists and raising public awareness.
2 – Jamaica Inn Foundation, Ocho Rios
Co-managing the White River Fish Sanctuary, the Foundation has restored marine habitats and boosted fish populations fivefold, all while integrating the local fishing community into its success.
3 – Round Hill Hotel & Villas, Jamaica
Round Hill’s Reef Garden Initiative combines coral propagation science with local employment and guest participation, redefining how luxury tourism can uplift ecosystems and people.
As coral reefs face unprecedented pressure from climate change, the tourism sector is stepping up with solutions that protect biodiversity, sustain economic growth, and preserve Caribbean heritage. These award-winning programs and the new Brief serve as a blueprint for others looking to make a difference.
This is more than a guide—it’s a call to action for Caribbean tourism stakeholders to lead with sustainability, resilience, and collaboration at the core.
Webinar Recap: Coral Reef Management & Restoration in the Caribbean
On June 19, 2025, CHTA and CAST hosted a dynamic webinar highlighting coral reef preservation efforts across the Caribbean. The session featured expert insights from The Nature Conservancy, regional tourism leaders, and environmental practitioners, showcasing real-world strategies that connect sustainable tourism with marine conservation.
Download the presentation decks below:
Missed the live session? Watch the full webinar here.
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