The St. Kitts Ministry of Tourism received top honors for Excellence in Sustainable Tourism, issued by the Caribbean Tourism Organization. The award was issued at an awards ceremony of the Climate Smart Sustainable Tourism Forum, which was held in St. Kitts.

“The Ministry of Tourism’s Sustainable Destination Management Plan provides a powerful case study in destination-driven sustainable tourism development, demonstrating a model of excellence that can be applied to other destinations in the Caribbean and beyond,” said Carlene Henry-Morton, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism.

“The St. Kitts Ministry of Tourism recognized the sustainability risks associated with tourism development and immediately began pursuing a deliberate Sustainable Destination Management Programme (SDMP), which has grown to include a range of innovative initiatives that address all pillars of sustainability,” said Henry-Morton.

By forging resilient partnerships, inspiring widespread destination stewardship, investing in the education of staff and stakeholders, involving the local community in decision making, and prioritizing funding for sustainable development programmes, the Ministry is ensuring that St. Kitts remains a vibrant place to live in and experience for years to come.

The Climate Smart Sustainable Tourism Forum was held under the theme “Good for Us, Better for All,” bringing together local, regional and international tourism stakeholders and development agencies. Sessions range from a look at tourism resiliency through climate change adaptation to a road map to disaster management in the Caribbean. Organizing partners include the CTO, the St.Kitts Ministry of Tourism, the St. Kitts Sustainable Destination Council, and Sustainable Travel International.