Discover The Bahamas: A Sustainable Tourism Destination

Tourism and sustainability go hand in hand in the Caribbean destination, where environmental preservation is as captivating as its natural landscapes

Discover The Bahamas: A Sustainable Tourism Destination
(Source: Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation (BMOTIA) )

In The Bahamas, sustainability is not a trend or a fad. A commitment to conservation and biodiversity is deeply rooted in the Caribbean country’s DNA. The archipelago has developed an approach that also encompasses responsible economic development. 

The Bahamas prides itself on being a leader in this field, championing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to promote global prosperity while protecting the planet. Species recovery and maintenance also attracts attention. Such is the case with Caribbean flamingos, which have grown from just 5,000 in the 1950s to flourish to the point that they have become the National Bird of The Bahamas. 

This demonstrates the success of these initiatives, which often include cases focused on the consequences of climate events, such as that of the 17 dolphins rescued after Hurricane Katrina destroyed their aquarium in the US state of Mississippi. They were safely relocated to Dolphin Cay at Atlantis on Paradise Island., meanwhile, strives to protect Nassau’s ecosystem by empowering guests, communities and Sandals Resorts team members to adopt conservation practices. The philanthropic organization helped develop the island’s first environmental science curriculum for elementary schools and partnered with organizations such as the Bahamas National Trust to protect shell fisheries and national parks that contribute to coastal protection. Through its continued involvement in invasive species mitigation, sea turtle conservation and coral restoration, the foundation remains committed to ensuring that Caribbean waters remain vibrant with generations of stewards leading the cause.

The commitment to the environment is manifested in multiple dimensions, from the protection of marine ecosystems to the conservation of species. What's more, 80% of the Bahamas' land mass is less than 1.5 metres above sea level, making it particularly vulnerable to climate change. With miles of pristine coastline, hundreds of marine species, lush plants and flowers of the most varied colours, the Bahamas' impressive natural resources create a landscape of natural beauty like nowhere else in the world. And this makes conservation and sustainability even more important.

Andros, for example, is noted for its 225-kilometre-long coral reef, one of the largest in the world, as well as 5,665 hectares of protected marine habitat and breeding grounds west of the island. Local resorts and foundations play a key role with green initiatives to help protect and preserve the environment. For example, the Atlantis Blue Project Foundation (a private, non-profit organization) remains committed to protection and preservation through scientific research, education, and community initiatives. In partnership with the Bahamas National Trust and The Nature Conservancy, the foundation has helped establish 6,070 hectares of marine protected areas on the west side of Andros Island. Corals grown in Atlantis nurseries even helped repopulate reefs affected by Hurricane Matthew. 

The Baha Mar Foundation, meanwhile, leads sustainable conservation initiatives, celebrates authentic Bahamian traditions and arts, and works to strengthen the community through improvements in education. One of its sustainability initiatives, the Sanctuary, allows guests and visitors to participate in hands-on activities, such as safe animal encounters and feeding, in a fun and educational environment. At the Conservation Center, visitors learn about environmental challenges facing The Bahamas, as well as explore potential solutions to common environmental concerns.

The Sandals Foundation Committed to preserving and regenerating the environment through sustainable operating practices and its activities program, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort invites guests to explore eco-friendly options such as bicycling and vegan/vegetarian menus. Staff conduct quarterly beach cleanups, and the resort supports organizations such as the Bahamas National Trust. 

Finally, Rosewood Baha Mar, through its Rosewood Sustains brand initiative, remains committed to delivering memorable experiences with a positive impact on the environment and climate. Among its efforts is the protection of The Bahamas’ coral reefs, offering guests the opportunity to offset their carbon footprint while traveling. Like the aforementioned Dolphin Cay and Sanctuary, other tourism experiences of this type allow visitors to not only appreciate, but understand and actively participate in environmental conservation, transforming tourism into a tool for ecological awareness and protection. This is the case of Bonefish Pond, The Retreat Garden, Primeval Forest, Clifton Heritage Park and Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Center.

The Bahamas reveals itself as a destination where tourism, sustainability and conservation intertwine in a harmonious and inspiring way. This makes the trip even more meaningful and memorable.

The archipelago fits perfectly with the concept of “Barefoot Luxury”, offering an experience where luxury is not ostentatious and exaggerated; it is elegant, discreet and in harmony with nature. Visitors can enjoy a beautiful and immersive natural environment on its islands, combined with top quality services in a calm and relaxing atmosphere. And they often have a “barefoot” policy (hence the barefoot concept), which allows a direct connection with nature.

Fuente: The Islands of the Bahamas.


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