Sargassum and the Effects of Climate Change

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association is proud to offer exclusively to our members the fifth course in our Sustainability Webinar Series, provided by our strategic partner OBM International (OBMI). These webinars will be focused on addressing the vital issue of sustainability in the Caribbean.

Changes in weather, ocean circulation patterns and warmer temperatures in the Caribbean sea, have bee held accountable for the current invasion of tons of sea weed on Caribbean shores. Our expert panel will discuss the ecological and economic impact Sargassum has had on the Caribbean and what you can do to minimize its negative effects on your beaches and your business.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the role Sargassum plays in the building and nourishment of beaches and the wider eco-system
• Learn best practices for the relocation or removal of Sargassum (equipment, timing and placement practices)
• Develop an environmental education campaign targeting visitors

Speaker

Kelly de Schaun, Executive Director
Galveston Island Park Board of Trustees and CVB
As the Executive Director of the Galveston Island Park Board of Trustees and CVB, Kelly is responsible for the maintenance of 32 miles of beaches and seven major beach parks. She has obtained an undergraduate degree from the University of Houston in Hotel and Restaurant Management and a Masters from the University of Texas in Community and Regional Planning, with a focus on economic development and environmental planning. For her work as Executive Director of the La Romana/ Bayahibe Hotel and Tourism Association she received several local and regional accolades including commendations from the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism and from the National Hotel & Lodging Association.