Hyatt Regency Trinidad continues to set the benchmark for sustainable hospitality in the Caribbean, having achieved Green Key certification in May 2024 as the first hotel in Trinidad to do so—and now, on 15th July 2025, the hotel has firmly established itself as a leader in sustainable hospitality through its comprehensive approach—spanning waste reduction, energy efficiency, social inclusion, and guest engagement—serves as a model for the industry in Trinidad and beyond.
Sustained Excellence in Waste Management and Community Partnerships
A cornerstone of Hyatt Regency Trinidad’s sustainability strategy is its partnership with the Emperor Valley Zoo, where the hotel donates fruit and vegetable scraps to support animal nutrition. This initiative, which continues today, diverts organic waste from landfills and strengthens community ties. The amount of food waste sent to the zoo varies with hotel activity but remains a consistent part of operations, regardless of technological advancements.
The hotel’s adoption of Winnow food waste technology has further enhanced its ability to measure and reduce kitchen waste. Hyatt Regency Trinidad encourages all hotels to embrace the core principle of tracking and recording food waste, as this data-driven approach is key to meaningful reduction.
To hand over the award was Green T&T Director Willard P. Harris who congratulated the Hyatt Regency Trinidad as a proud Green Key organisation.
Left to right: Hyatt Engineering Manager, Mr Patrick Borley, General Manager Mr Michael Hooper and Green T&T Director Mr Harris.
Championing Social Inclusion
Hyatt Regency Trinidad’s sustainability efforts extend to social responsibility, with initiatives Hyatt’s global RiseHy program. This program creates employment opportunities for young adults facing socio-economic challenges, all operational departments take part. These efforts reflect the hotel’s holistic approach to responsible business and community upliftment.
Energy Efficiency and Resource Conservation
The hotel has achieved a significant reduction in energy consumption, thanks to initiatives like scheduled air conditioning controls and ongoing energy audits. These measures are part of Hyatt’s broader sustainability goals, which include reducing energy, water, and waste per guest night by 2030. The recertification process highlighted Hyatt Regency Trinidad’s continued innovation and commitment to resource efficiency.
General Manager Michael Hooper reflects on this journey , ‘I continue to be proud and amazed with the efforts of our team, especially Patrick Borely, Ahmed Ali, Virgil Khan, Humberto Canales, Tracy Awai and their respective teams as well as countless others who work to ensure these and other initiatives are being practiced regularly. ‘
Hyatt Regency Trinidad’s recertification is not just a milestone, but a reaffirmation of its daily commitment to making a positive impact on the environment, the community, and future generations.
Green T&T in collaboration with the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) hosted the prestigious Blue Flag National Operators Meeting (NOM) 15-18 October 2024, bringing together environmental leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders committed to the sustainability of our coastal areas. This landmark event highlighted key discussions on marine conservation, responsible tourism, and the role of certification programs in preserving the beauty of our beaches and marinas.
A component of the Blue Flag NOM that was funded by the GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP) UNDP Trinidad and Tobago, provided a platform for knowledge sharing and strategic planning towards achieving Blue Flag Certification—a globally recognised eco-label that promotes environmental responsibility and sustainable tourism.
One of the key outcomes of the event was the development of a Sustainable Blue Economy Policy, designed to guide both local and international Boat Tour Operators in promoting marine conservation and responsible practices. This policy serves as a roadmap for sustainable development while ensuring the protection of vital coastal and marine resources.
With expert presentations, insightful panel discussions, and action-driven workshops, the event reinforced the importance of collective responsibility in preserving our marine and coastal ecosystems.
These establishments have earned the prestigious Green Key Certification, an internationally recognised eco-label awarded to facilities committed to environmental responsibility.
Photo Caption: Ms. Lesley Jones, President of the Foundation for Environmental Education, leads discussions alongside (seated from left) Mr. Johann Durand, Director of Blue Flag International; Mr. Alessandro Ventil, Blue Flag International Coordinator; and Mr. Joaquín Díaz, FEE Director for Blue Flag.
Scarborough, Tobago – October 20, 2024: Green T&T, together with the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) and the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), successfully hosted the 2024 Blue Flag National Operators Meeting (NOM) in Tobago from October 15–18, bringing together over 50 international delegates from 30 countries to discuss sustainable tourism and environmental policies. This annual meeting of National Operators, held at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex, showcased Tobago’s commitment to eco-conscious travel and underscored the island’s growing reputation as a leader in sustainable tourism.
The Blue Flag programme, one of the world’s most recognized environmental certifications, sets stringent standards for beaches, marinas, and sustainable boat tour operators. Administered locally by Green T&T with support from TTAL, this year’s NOM focused on aligning efforts with FEE’s GAIA 20:30 strategy, which addresses critical global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
The NOM opened with a welcome ceremony hosted by the Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), Honourable Farley Augustine, who welcomed delegates to the island, with a vibrant display of Tobago’s hospitality, local cuisine and culture. In addressing the delegates, the Chief Secretary stressed the importance of the event for the island.
In addition to discussions regarding the future of the Blue Flag programme, this year’s National Operators Meeting in Tobago will also drive the development of a sustainability boat tour operator policy for the blue economy, which will be led by Green T&T and the Blue Flag International Office, with funding from UNDP Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme. With these efforts, the legacy of the 2024 Blue Flag National Operators Meeting in Tobago will be long-lasting, strengthening the island’s reputation as a destination for eco-friendly tourism while fostering long-term connections for future international events and initiatives.
From left: Mr. Julien Skeete, the Administrator in the Division of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities, and Transportation; His Excellency Peter Cavendish, Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Trinidad and Tobago; Ms. Lesley Jones, President of the Foundation for Environmental Education; the Honourable Farley Chavez Augustine, Chief Secretary, Tobago House of Assembly; Councillor Tashia Grace Burris, Secretary of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities and Transportation · The Tobago House of Assembly; Assemblyman Niall George, Assistant Secretary for Tourism, Culture, Antiquities and Transportation and Ms. Joanna Moses-Wothke, Blue Flag National Coordinator for Trinidad and Tobago and CEO of Green T&T, at the Welcome Dinner for the 2024 Blue Flag National Operators Meeting, hosted under the auspices of the Honourable Farley Chavez Augustine, Chief Secretary of the THA at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex on Tuesday 15th October, 2024.
Also speaking at the welcome ceremony for the meeting, His Excellency Peter Cavendish, Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Trinidad and Tobago noted the commonality in objectives between Trinidad and Tobago and the European Union in driving sustainable tourism, and welcomed the opportunity to further discussions for a common strategy.
Photo Caption: His Excellency Peter Cavendish, Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Trinidad and Tobago during his address at the Welcome Dinner for the 2024 Blue Flag National Operators Meeting, hosted under the auspices of the Honourable Farley Chavez Augustine, Chief Secretary of the THA at the Shaw Park Cultural Complex on Tuesday 15th October, 2024.
Describing Trinidad and Tobago as a cornucopia of talent and genius, His Excellency also praised the selection of Tobago as the host for this year’s event, stating that “whoever chose Tobago for this meeting, it was a sort of an act of genius.” He added:
“You’re standing in a country which has produced the only new percussion instrument in the last 50 years, where one third of the world’s trade passes outside of the windows, which has the world’s number one chocolate, which has the world’s number one cocoa genome, which has the world’s number one cocoa research centre, which has invented Soca, Sol and Calypso…More importantly as environmentalists…you’re standing in the shadow of the boundary main ridge reserve. The legislation enacted at the time by the British Parliament in 1776 is considered to be the first piece of environmental legislation of the modern era.”
Following the strategic meetings, delegates also had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the island’s rich local culture and natural beauty, experiencing some of the most memorable and authentic local attractions that take our visitors beyond the ordinary, including excursions to the historic Fort King George, the UNESCO-designated Main Ridge Forest Reserve, and the renowned Buccoo Reef with the Blue Flag certified Miss Ayana Glass-bottom Boat Tours.
A group photo at Fort King George of the delegation attending the Blue Flag National Operators Meeting.
Through strategic partnerships and initiatives such as the Blue Flag programme, TTAL remains committed to strengthening the island’s brand of Tobago Beyond Ordinary by raising the island’s profile as a leader in sustainable tourism and eco-conscious travel in the Caribbean. Visit tobagobeyond.com and follow the TTAL on social media to learn more.
Highlights and Outcomes of the 2024 Blue Flag NOM:
Collaborative Sessions on Sustainability: Three key sessions tackled climate change, biodiversity, and pollution, fostering a collaborative space for policy development and knowledge sharing. Presentations included:
Secondary Schools: Presentations from the environmental clubs from Signal Hill Secondary School, Bishop`s High School and Mason Hall Secondary School on their climate change, biodiversity and pollution mitigation initiatives.
Climate Action: The Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator outlined funding opportunities, while Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Services highlighted projections on temperature rises and their effects on marine life.
Biodiversity Initiatives: Discussions on UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere designation and turtle conservation by SPESEAS brought focus to ecosystem protection.
Pollution Solutions: The Department of the Environment presented solutions for waste management in Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Blue Flag SIDS Strategic Meeting: Led by Green T&T, this session achieved a consensus among THA, private sector, and civil society leaders on advancing the Blue Flag programme in Tobago. Preliminary recommendations were developed to align with local policies, support SDGs, and strengthen the blue economy.
Semaphore Recycled Blue Flag Fashion Show: Held on October 17, this unique event showcased designs crafted from repurposed Blue Flags by students from seven local secondary schools. Themed “Paint de Town Blue,” the fashion show celebrated creativity in sustainable fashion while reinforcing the values of the blue economy and Tobago’s rich cultural heritage.
Port of Spain, Trinidad – May 22, 2024 – Hyatt Regency Trinidad has been awarded the prestigious Green Key Certification, becoming the first hotel in Trinidad to receive this distinguished recognition. This milestone underscores the hotel’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and sets a new standard for eco-friendly hospitality practices both locally and globally. The official Green Key award and flag were presented to Hyatt Regency Trinidad during a ceremony on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. This accolade highlights the hotel’s dedication to sustainable operations and environmental stewardship. By obtaining Green Key certification, Hyatt Regency Trinidad not only enhances its reputation but also serves as an inspiration for other hotels to pursue similar eco-friendly initiatives.
“We are excited and proud to be the first hotel in Trinidad to be awarded Green Key status,” remarked Michael Hooper, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Trinidad. “This distinction signifies our ongoing commitment not only as part of the growing number of Hyatt hotels worldwide achieving this status but also as leaders spearheading environmentally responsible practices.”
Hyatt Regency Trinidad has demonstrated remarkable dedication to minimising its environmental impact and promoting sustainability throughout its operations. Key initiatives that contributed to this certification include: Energy Efficiency: Implementing advanced energy-saving systems to reduce consumption. Waste Reduction: Comprehensive recycling programs and the substitution of single-use plastics with eco-friendly alternatives. Community Engagement: Donating vegetable and fruit scraps to the Emperor Valley Zoo to support animal nutrition. Patrick Borely, the Director of Engineering and Lead of Green Key Team at the hotel, has been diligently serving as the hotel’s liaison and preparing its application for certification. He commented, “the Hyatt Regency Trinidad was pleased to have a local operator in Trinidad and Tobago that facilitated and worked together with us to bring the certification to reality. Otherwise it would have meant involving an overseas provider. I would encourage other hotels in Trinidad to seek green Key certification as it would lift the standard of the industry” Presenting the award to Haytt was Green T&T Board of Director Willard P. Harris, who had this to say: “As the first hotel in Trinidad to achieve Green Key status, Hyatt Regency Trinidad serves as an inspiration and leader in the industry. After almost a year of preparation and fulfilment of stringent criteria, the achievement is significant, and the hotel now plays a pivotal role in fostering a more sustainable and responsible tourism industry”.
The Green Key certification is coordinated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a global voluntary eco-certification program. With over 6,000 certified hotels and establishments in 60 countries, Green Key is the leading standard for excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operations in the tourism and hospitality sector. The certification process evaluates establishments on various criteria, including environmental management, energy conservation, waste management, and water conservation. In Trinidad and Tobago, Green T&T serves as the National Operator for the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Green T&T is responsible for the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the Green Key program within the country. Working in partnership with government agencies, tourism stakeholders, and hospitality establishments, Green T&T promotes sustainable practices, raises awareness about environmental conservation, and drives the growth of ecotourism.
The CEO of Green T&T, Joanna Moses-Wothke had this to say: “Chain hotels that prioritise environmental sustainability play a critical role in combating global climate change, while simultaneously achieving cost savings and enhancing their brand reputation. We applaud Hyatt Regency Trinidad for their unwavering commitment to obtaining environmental certification and aspire for it to serve as an exemplary model within the industry. “
In Tobago, two accommodations, Castara Retreats and Hibiscus Heights, have recently been added to the list of internationally certified Green Key hotels, bringing the total number of certified properties on the island to seven. Adventure Eco Villas, Bananaquit Vacations, House of Grace, Tropical Apartments, and Shepherds Inn in Tobago have received Green Key certification. In addition, Native Abode has recently embarked on a remarkable accomplishment by receiving its second certification. Additionally, once again, Miss Ayana and Top Catch Charters, the Tobago boat operators, have been awarded Blue Flag certification. Top Catch Charters has maintained this certification for three consecutive years, while Miss Ayana has achieved it for the second time. These two operators have consistently showcased their commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable operations.
Above: First-time certified Castara Retreats receiving their plaque and certification from members of Green T&T and TTAL
National Operator Green T&T currently implements the Green Key and Blue Flag programmes in partnership with the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL), both of which have been instrumental in promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism and hospitality industry.
Coordinated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Green Key and Blue Flag are two of the most globally recognised voluntary eco-certification programmes. The certification process evaluates various aspects of an establishment’s operations, including environmental management, waste management, environmental education and other sustainable practices, with over 4,400 certified Green Key sites and over 5,080 Blue Flag sites in more than 50 countries worldwide.
The recent certification ceremony occurred on November 21st and 22nd, where hotels and boat operators received their well-deserved Green Key and Blue Flag certificates and plaques and flags that proudly display their commitment to sustainable practices. This celebration marks a significant milestone for Tobago tourism as it prioritises eco-friendly initiatives that benefit visitors and the local environment.
Since 2018, TTAL has invited all tourist sites, accommodations, attractions, and restaurants in Tobago to participate in the programme. Participating sites can receive a comprehensive assessment from Green T&T and work towards meeting the esteemed Green Key standards. The sites are audited, and the respective National Juries review their applications. Upon achieving full compliance, these sites are awarded Green Key or Blue Flag certification for one year. This rigorous process has established Green Key and Blue Flag as some of the most reputable eco-labels worldwide, trusted by prominent chains such as Radisson, Marriott, Accor, and Hyatt.
The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) has issued this statement:
With seven (7) Green Key-certified properties, there are now more accommodationoptions for the eco-conscious visitor to Tobago. This sets Tobago apart from othercountries in the English-speaking Caribbean. The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL)is committed to promoting the Green Key programme to increase theawareness and adoption of the sustainable practices inherent in the certification.Together with programs such as the Tobago Recycling Resource Initiative andlegislation such as the Waste Management Rules, 2021 and the Wate ManagementRegulations, 2021, which lay out guidelines for reducing waste generation andexercising environmentally sound management of waste, Tobago is on the way tobeing more widely known as a destination where sustainable environmentalmeasures are commonplace.For Blue Flag, the awards signal the continued ability of the two boat operators to maintain the standards set out by Blue Flag. They act as a draw to the destination for travellers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while resident and as an example to other boat operators locally and within the region. The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) will continue to promote the Blue Flag program among boat operators and pursue full Blue Flag status for the pilot beaches at Mt. Irvine, Bloody Bay and Kings Bay.”
For Castara Retreats, the journey to certification was most impactful, with their sustainable approach supported by staff members and the community. The owner of Castara Retreats, Steve Felgate, cited:
“Green Key as an excellent validation of priorities that we have been long-term committed to at Castara Retreats. We plan to continue setting and achieving targets year after year and for our passion to protect and enhance the environment to be shared by guests, staff and all our local and international partners. We are super excited to share this journey with others. Our strategy for sustainability, to be published in early 2024, is now our top business priority.”
Native Abode is well-acquainted with the process and remains enthusiastic about the program. Here’s what they had to say:
“We have always strived to use our comparative advantage to make current and future gains in our business. This includes producing fruits and vegetables in an organic way, practising energy and water conservation, pre-ordering breakfast to reduce wastage, and using appropriate technology to eliminate printing. Green Key has provided formal recognition of how we do business. So, being Green Key certified means how we do business protects the environment and promotes sustainable prosperity, which resonates well with the growing climate-conscious market.“
Second-time awarded Native Abode celebrating with members of Green T&T and TTALOwner Mike Walmsley of the newly certified Hibiscus Heights receiving his certificate from Kirsten Cowie-Irvine of the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL)
Hibiscus Heights is a small but ambitious accommodation provider that has surpassed many criteria and eagerly anticipates reaping the rewards of its efforts. Owner and Manager of Hibiscus Heights, Mike Walmsley, said:
“Technology can offer excellent advantages and help reduce our carbon footprint; as an example, we installed wifi controlled remotes for all our air-conditioning units; this enables us to turn off the units when guests forget and leave on for the day, without having to go into the apartments. We can also reset the temperature any time from an app on the phone, even if we are not on the premises. The savings are a win-win.“
Jenna Reid of Top Catch Charters receives the 2023-2024 Blue Flag award with members from the Tobago Tourism Agency and Green T&TBoat Owner Dexter Black receives his Blue Flag plaque for the 2023-2024 season
Top Catch Charters boat operator Shivonne Peters and her team have been in the programme since 2021 and have this to say about their continued involvement and benefits derived:
“we have seen sustained and continued benefits from the Blue Flag programme in terms of the efficiency of our operations, our safety practices and in promoting sustainable practices for our guests and in our community. Our customer base continues to widen as more visitors seek sustainable tourism activities. Through the programme, we have been able to conduct environmental projects and collaborate with stakeholders to conserve Tobago’s marine environment”.
Second-time certified Miss Ayana Glass Bottom Boat operated by Dexter Black said:
“The management and crew of Miss Ayana are delighted to have our blue flag certification renewed for the year 2023/2024. We are excited and willing to operate in a sustainable and eco-friendly environment. The blue economy is vital for us as an island and nation, and we must preserve it for generations to come.”
As the National Operator for this programme in Trinidad and Tobago, Green T&T continues to collaborate with hospitality and tourism establishments across both islands to recognise and commemorate their existing sustainable initiatives through participation in the esteemed Green Key and Blue Glag programmes. CEO of Green T&T, Joanna Moses-Wothke, cited:
“Green T&T, as the National Operator for the programme in Trinidad and Tobago, actively seeks partnerships with beach management, boat operators, tourism, and hospitality properties across the Caribbean. We aim to identify and promote sustainable practices by participating in esteemed programmes such as Blue Flag and Green Key. Through collaborative efforts, we aspire to elevate the industry’s dedication to environmental stewardship and responsible tourism.”
With financial assistance from the UNDP GEF SPG Trinidad and Tobago Green Innovator Challenge https://www.facebook.com/GEFSGPTT, three tour boat operators in Tobago received the internationally recognised Blue Flag award.
The Blue Flag certification for beaches, boats, and marinas https://www.blueflag.global/ is a highly valuable branding and marketing tool for eco-friendly services and speaks specifically to the European tourism source markets. This programme has been operating in Europe since 1987 working to bring together the tourism and environmental sectors at local, regional and national levels to ensure sustainable tourism. It is managed by the Foundation for Environmental Education https://www.fee.global. Currently, the Blue Flag is flying at over 4,800 sites in 50 countries and has over 80 Blue Flag-awarded boat operators worldwide
The certification process in Tobago was facilitated by Green T&T https://green-tt.org, the National Operator for the Blue Flag programme and endorsed by the Tobago Tourism Agency Ltd, Tobago’s Destination Management Organisation https://www.visittobago.gov.tt.
Joanna Moses-Wothke, CEO of Green T&T further elaborates:
“This major achievement means the boat operators understood and complied with strict international standards pertaining to environmental management, environmental education and information, safety and services, as well as social responsibility; they are now ready to reap the marketing and sales benefits of this prestigious award.”
The Tobago boat operators were trained by Green T&T to reduce their environmental footprint, improve their environmental interpretation skills, and use Blue Flag as a post-COVID recovery tool to meet Blue Flag’s stringent performance criteria.
Ms Shivonne Peters, Manager of Top Catch Charters explains the significance of recertification of the Blue Flag award:
“Our second Blue Flag award is especially thrilling for us at Top Catch Charters. For the second year, we have fulfilled our goal of providing eco-friendly tours and reducing our environmental impact. It’s not just about Top Catch Charters but also about the transformation of Tobago’s tourism industry. Sustainable tourism is possible and Top Catch Charters intends to continue this drive and provide the highest standard possible, not only with respect to our environmental regulations but also our guest experience.”
Dr Sharda Mahabir, National Coordinator GEF SGP UNDP, also extended her congratulations and expectations:
“GEF SGP is pleased to support Green T&T in their efforts to strengthen tourism by certifying boat operators under Blue Flag. This certification will put our beautiful sister isle on the map in terms of initiatives in support of the Blue Economy. We look forward to positive outcomes and benefits coming out of this project and more GEF SGP projects on the sister isle.”
Trinidad and Tobago is making its mark and championing the cause for real change regarding sustainable tourism, post Covid-recovery, and climate change resilience.
(Left to right) Blue Flag awardee Mr. Ronnie Elliott, Mrs. Michelle Lewis, Secretary Tashia Burris, TTAL Board Director Ms. Avion Hercules, Mrs. Kirsten Cowie-Irvine, and Blue Flag awardee Mr. Dexter Black with the Blue Flag on Pigeon Point Jetty. [Photo courtesy Division of Tourism, Culture, Antiquities & Transportation]
Two Buccoo Reef tour boats- Miss Ayana and Cool Runnings, have been granted the Blue Flag award for the first time Top Catch Charters of Buccoo, Tobago was also recertified for the 2022- 2023 Blue Flag season.
Kaye and Stein Trotman of Native Abode accept the Green Key Award from Michelle Lewis of Green T&T and Kirsten Cowie-Irvine of TTAL.
The World Tourism Organisation designated World Tourism Day 2021 on September 27 as a day to focus on Tourism for Inclusive Growth, celebrating tourism’s power to create opportunities for everyone. The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited commemorated World Tourism Day this year with sustainability milestones borne out of collaboration with the island’s stakeholders, including two more Green Key awards and a coastal tree planting initiative. Last month, Native Abode and Adventure Eco Villa were awarded the internationally recognised Green Key eco-label. These two tourism accommodation properties, along with Bananaquit and Shepherd’s Inn (awarded in October 2020), are currently the only Green Key certified sites in the English-Speaking Caribbean. Green Key is an international voluntary eco-label awarded to tourism accommodations and other hospitality facilities that commit to sustainable business practices, and are helping to make a difference on an environmental level. This designation signals to tourists that these establishments adhere to strict criteria as stipulated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), empowering potential guests to help make a difference in regards to sustainability and environmental protection with their choice.
Owner and nanager of Adventure Eco Villas Ean Mackay is joined by a member of staff to accept the Green Key Award from Michelle Lewis of Green T&T and Kirsten Cowie-Irvine of TTAL.
The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) manages the execution of Green Key in Tobago in partnership with national programme coordinator Green T&T. Representatives of both organisations visited the winning properties on September 23 and 24 to deliver the well-earned awards to the property owners, and deliver heartfelt congratulations.
Ancil Dennis, Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly and Secretary of Tourism, Culture and Transportation, also extended his congratulations to the awardees stating: “I must commend the management and staff of both properties for the considerable work put into ensuring that they operate within the highest standards of environmental awareness, conservation and sustainability. Despite the myriad of challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, they have certainly persevered to increase the value of their offerings.
The awards came on the verge of World Tourism Day 2021 celebrations which has as its theme “Tourism for Inclusive Growth”.
TTAL partnered with environmental NGO Green T&T and local tourism stakeholders to initiate the LEAF (Learning About Forests) “plant a tree for peace” programme in Tobago on September 23 during the lead-up to World Tourism Day.
LEAF is an environmental education and conservation programme for school children in sustainable-minded destinations across the world, including Tobago. The tree planting initiative took place at two of Tobago’s three Blue Flag pilot beaches—Bloody Bay and the Mt Irvine.
Officials from TTAL’s Product Development and Destination Management team joined up with Green T&T, students from the Black Rock Government School, officials from the Division of Tourism, Culture and Transportation, and Captain Kirth from Top Catch High-Speed Catamaran to plant trees provided by the Division of Food Production, Forestry and Fisheries.
History was created in Tobago on Friday when boat operator Top Catch Charters was acknowledged for receiving the prestigious Blue Flag award in 2021.
Top Catch Charters is the first boat operator in the entire English-speaking Caribbean to receive the award.
Blue Flag is an eco-label with high brand recognition in the international tourism market. It is also one of the world’s most recognised voluntary eco-labels awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boat operators.
The programme is owned and managed by the international, non-governmental, non-profit organisation, Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), based in Denmark.
During a simple ceremony on Friday at Merci Buccoo Hall, Buccoo, Top Catch Charters managing director Shivonne Peters said when her team got the opportunity to expand their operations, they wanted to be different.
“We didn’t want to be the typical run-of-the-mill service. We wanted to really extend that passion that we have. We have a serious passion and commitment for Tobago’s natural environment,” she said.
Peters said she and fellow boat owner Kirth Mc Pherson have been involved in environmental sustainability for many years.
Saying Mc Pherson’s family was among the first tour operators on the island, Peters said as a marine scientist, she constantly researches the marine environment.
“So, we really wanted to have our guests experience sustainability when they come on board the vessel. We didn’t just want it to be an on-the-vessel experience. We wanted it to extend beyond the life of a tour.
“So, we would give out reusable bamboo straws as sort of a keepsake – something that they could really use to make your actions sustainable in the long term.”
Peters said the Blue Flag award to Top Catch Charters is the “realisation of a dream of things we have been doing from day one.”
She encouraged all of the other boat operators in Tobago to get on board.
“This has to be collective effort moving forward. We have so much to be thankful for in Tobago. We have so much natural beauty around us but each of us has to play our part in protecting that beautiful marine environment.”
Peters said the Blue Flag award is not just a win for Top Catch Charters but Tobago.
Narendra Ramgoolam, director, product development and destination management, Tobago Tourism Agency Ltd (TTAL) said Top Catch Charters met the Blue Flag criteria even before signing on the programme.
“When we started looking at the audit process…we looked through the documents and Top Catch was checking off all of those areas without even applying for Blue Flag,” he said.
“They were fulfilling the first aid requirement, the safety practices, the equipment, they had recycling in their boat. But what impressed me as well were the bamboo plates, the cutlery. So, they were already operating in an environmental manner without even applying for Blue Flag.”
Ramgoolam described the award as a huge achievement.
“It is the first in the region. But it is also the first public-private partnership to achieve Blue Flag in the region as well. So that is a huge accomplishment as well.”
He said the award also balances recreation and conservation.
“It is a win-win on both sides.”
Ramgoolam said he hopes the award will be a catalyst so that others will come on board “so we will work together to build out the products in Tobago and align it with our brand, our image, our identity.”
TTAL CEO Louis Lewis and Programme Co-ordinator Green TT Michelle Lewis also spoke.
Is the beach just a popular pastime or a cure for anything that may ail you? Your grandparents may wholeheartedly declare that a dip in the sea is the best way to conquer any cold or complaint. But what if, the water is the source of it?
On the surface, we are surrounded by beautiful and pristine beaches but when the UNEP revealed that 85% of wastewater entering the Caribbean Sea is not adequately treated you are compelled to take a closer look. Just under 50 years ago many countries believed that it was acceptable to liberally dump garbage and sewage into the oceans. With only 20% of the ocean mapped and explored it’s easy to understand why persons thought that the effects would be negligible or too minimal to matter. This meant that wastewater lines from domestic and industrial areas led directly to the sea. And travelling with it were a variety of toxins and pathogens.
While wastewater is made up of mostly water, it also contains sewage, which is generally described as water contaminated with faeces and/or urine. Untreated sewage carries with it a host of viruses, bacteria, and parasites to name a few. Swimming, bathing, or eating seafood from contaminated water sources can directly impact human health. Diarrhoea, cholera, and hepatitis are some of diseases and illnesses you can contract when infected. To determine whether beaches are safe to swim in it or if it is free from contaminated effluents, it is an accepted practice that you measure the levels of Escherichia coli (E coli) and Enterococci, two forms of bacteria commonly found in faecal matter[i].
In response to the need to ensure safe bathing water quality the international Blue Flag standard requires every beach operator to conduct these tests monthly and post the values on its public information board. This allows beach users to make informed decisions on whether the recreational water quality is acceptable, but it also keeps the public informed of any changes. It can be a rigorous standard to comply with, but it is a necessary mandate to ensure the safety of all beach goers.
In the absence of this information these are some key guidelines you can adhere to:
Do not bathe near river mouths especially after heavy rainfall, with increased surface runoff and trash from land the risk of infection is higher
Avoid stagnant, murky or poor smelling water
Do no enter water with dead or sick animals nearby
If you are vomiting, have diarrhoea or any other gastroenteritis-like symptoms you should not enter the water to prevent others from getting sick as well.
If you suspect that water is contaminated contact the Water and Sewage Authority (WASA) or the relevant Regional Corporation in that district.
