Antigua and Barbuda has been included for the first time on the 2025 Green Travel List by Wanderlust, one of the UK's most recognized travel platforms. This recognition positions the country among the world leaders in sustainable and responsible tourism.
The distinction is granted in large part thanks to the Coral Reef Restoration Project promoted by The Elkhorn Marine Conservancy, an initiative focused on the protection and restoration of marine ecosystems. This project not only supports local biodiversity but also strengthens key sectors of the national economy, such as tourism and fishing, while contributing to the protection of coastal communities.
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority in the United Kingdom, under the leadership of Director of Tourism for the UK and Europe, Cherrie Osborne, played a pivotal role in promoting this environmental work internationally. Collaboration with specialized media outlets raised the profile of the country's efforts, resulting in its inclusion on the list compiled by the Wanderlust editorial board.
The marine project is based on the collection of coral fragments, their cultivation in underwater nurseries, and their subsequent transplantation to damaged reefs. Currently, more than 1,000 fragments are in cultivation, with expansion plans underway. The initiative was highlighted at the World Travel Market 2024 through an immersive virtual reality coral restoration experience, reinforcing its impact in the ecotourism sector.
The project's main benefits include coastal protection, the promotion of sustainable fishing, the creation of educational experiences for visitors, and the promotion of biodiversity. This international recognition reinforces Antigua and Barbuda's image as a destination committed to environmental protection, adding to other recent achievements that highlight its natural and cultural richness.