About STC 2023

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has been staging the Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development, popularly known as the Sustainable Tourism Conference (STC) since 1997. This Conference is part of the information dissemination and regional awareness component of CTO’s Strategy for Sustainable Tourism and is designed as a forum for networking, information and knowledge exchanges among the High level Tourism Authorities, private sector executives and other Tourism industry professionals, experts and functionaries from CTO Member countries and wider regional and international tourism stakeholders.

Discussions are centered around the sharing of experiences on lessons leant and best practices, aimed at providing an opportunity to learn from the past, correct the present and plan for the future. Recommendations are made for how Governments and the private sector can design and implement sustainable tourism policies and programmes to contribute to the growth, sustainability and resilience of the Regional Tourism industry.

The Conference is organized around a central Theme and related topics to highlight an important issue or aspect of tourism and sustainability. The STC includes presentations by experts, moderated panel discussions, Q & A sessions, thematic break-out sessions as well as working group activities. Field trips or study tours are optional capacity-building activities which are offered as part of the conference experience.

The CTO defines sustainable tourism as the optimal use of natural, cultural, social and financial resources for national development on an equitable and self-sustaining basis, in order to provide a unique visitor experience and an improved quality of life for host communities, through partnerships among government, the private sector and communities. In looking at the issues impacting the sustainability of the Caribbean tourism industry, the CTO embraces a holistic approach that takes into account the regional ability to maintain product quality, increase profitability, and promote responsible use of natural and cultural heritage assets. At the destination level, this includes ensuring equitable access to tourism markets for local populations to participate in and benefit from tourism, and strengthening linkages between tourism and other economic sectors, to combine efforts for competitiveness.

The STC is attended by representatives of national, regional and international organizations related to tourism and ancillary sectors, sustainable development partners, academia and other public and private sectors stakeholders associated with and/or operating in the Caribbean tourism Industry, as well as students and representatives of the media.

About Grenada

Grenada, the spice of the Caribbean, is a Tri-island nation comprising Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique, which has gained renown for its unspoilt natural beauty. This enticing gem offers a rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine and a world class yachting and dive sector.

Grenada’s tourism product embraces socially and environmentally responsible development, which is epitomized by market positioning under the ‘Pure Grenada’ brand. This underpins Grenada’s tourism development efforts and marketing focus, positioning the Tri-island nation as “off-the-beaten path,” and a haven for the discerning travel explorer. The three destinations of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique encapsulate everything that is authentic, untouched and undiscovered, in essence – Pure.

Grenada is an eco-tourism paradise that offers pure Caribbean adventure – hiking, diving, beaches, waterfalls, mountains, forests, and much more. Grenada’s unspoiled landscapes appeal to adventure seekers, nature lovers, beach dwellers, families seeking fun and adventure, couples looking for romantic getaways or destination weddings, or busy, stressed out, hardworking people in search of escape and relaxation. Immerse yourself in Grenada’s natural beauty – lush rain forests, verdant mountains, white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Be amazed by Grenada’s French, Spanish, British, Amerindian, African and East Indian influences, which create an enticing tapestry defining the cultural heritage and modern lifestyle.

The STC will be held from April 22-24, 2024, on the cusp of the 10-year anniversary of the ‘Pure Grenada’ brand which was launched in February 2014. The conference also coincides with Earth Day celebrated April 22 ever year.