Caribbean leaders talk sustainability at upcoming Belize conference

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and the Belize Tourism Board are teaming up to host the Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development (STC 2026) from April 27-30, 2026, in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize.

Now in its 17th edition, the Conference will convene regional and international tourism leaders under the theme: “Tourism in Full Color: Integrating Blue, Green, Orange and Beyond Economies into Sustainable Planning and Development.”

Dona Regis-Prosper, CTO’s Secretary-General and CEO, said that: “STC 2026 reflects the Caribbean’s commitment to reimagining tourism as a powerful driver of inclusive growth, climate resilience and cultural vitality.”

And Regis-Prosper continued: “By embracing a Tourism in Full Color approach, we are encouraging destinations to move beyond fragmented planning and instead adopt integrated models that balance environmental stewardship, cultural identity, community well-being and economic opportunity.”

Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism, Youth, Sports and Diaspora Relations, said that: “Belize is deeply honored to host STC 2026 and to welcome regional and international leaders to our shores.”

And Minister Mahler continued: “This conference underscores Belize’s commitment to sustainable tourism and reinforces our role as a catalyst for innovation and responsible growth in the Caribbean. STC 2026 will serve as a dynamic platform for bold ideas and strategic partnerships. I invite industry partners and policymakers to join us as we help shape a sustainable future for Caribbean tourism.”

The conference will explore integrated tourism development models that move beyond traditional silos to harness the full range of Caribbean assets:

• The Blue Economy focusing on responsible use of marine and coastal resources
• The Green Economy advancing climate-resilient, low-carbon and nature-positive tourism solutions
• The Orange Economy unlocking the economic value of culture, heritage and creative industries
• Beyond economies, including the Purple Economy, which emphasizes values, social cohesion, identity, well-being and inclusive growth

The four-day program will feature a ministerial roundtable, expert plenaries, concurrent technical sessions, master classes and field-based learning experiences in sustainable tourism practices.

Topics will range from blue and green financing, climate risk management and regenerative tourism, to cultural tourism, creative industries, and governance of emerging tourism models.

Together, the sessions are designed to support the development and implementation of forward-looking policies, programs and partnerships that enhance competitiveness and long-term sustainability across CTO member destinations.

Go to https://bit.ly/CaribbeanSTC2026 .