Tourism and the Environment in the Caribbean: An Economic Framework

Tourism is one of the most important economic activities in the Caribbean, contributing a third to a half of GDP in most countries. Whether tourism is land-based, or via cruise ships, Caribbean countries rely on their natural environment as the main lure to visitors (as well as an important source of welfare for their own citizens.) The resource base upon which all of this economic activity is based is fragile, however. Sustaining the tourism sector and the economic benefits it brings thus requires ensuring that the environmental resources the sector relies upon are managed sustainably. This management should be seen as a shared responsibility by three main groups: the countries and peoples of the Caribbean, the tourism/ travel industry, and the visitors themselves. Each group has a role to play, and each stands to benefit from a healthier and a more sustainable environment.