Sustainable Practices Will Boost Barbados’ Tourism Sector

Central Bank of Barbados Governor Dr. Kevin Greenidge has recommended that tourism stakeholders invest in eco-tourism and sustainable business practices while also diversifying their offerings.

He made the comments recently as he addressed the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association’s Third Quarterly General Meeting at Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park.

Speaking on the topic “The Sustainability of the Tourism Industry from a Data Analysis Perspective,” he said Barbados was now attracting younger visitors.

“The younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are displaying an increasing interest in Barbados. The data shows that over the last two decades there has been a doubling in the share of visitors under 35 years, whereby now over 30 percent of our visitors are under 35 years, while those above 66 years have halved,” he revealed.

The Governor pointed out that younger travellers are more environmentally conscious and they seek authentic, eco-friendly experiences. They are also more likely to support businesses that prioritise sustainability.

“Invest in eco-accommodations that use renewable energy, sustainable architecture, and are built with local materials, where possible. These properties can also focus on water conservation, waste management, and organic farming. Similarly, we should invest in eco-transportation such as electric or hybrid car rentals, promote bicycle and electric scooter rentals for tourists, and establish shuttle services that reduce the number of vehicles on the road,” Governor Greenidge advised.

He recommended that tourism-related businesses utilise solar, wind, or other renewable energy sources and encourage and invest in businesses that produce local, sustainable, and eco-friendly souvenirs.

Dr. Greenidge also urged tourism players to pay attention to digital technology since younger visitors are more digitally oriented and integrated and prefer destinations with strong Wi-Fi connectivity, so they can work remotely and stay connected.

As it relates to the diversification of the tourism product, the Governor said off-peak promotions and conferences and other events can help to stabilise tourist arrivals during the year.

He said data showed that June, September, and October are the worst months for both the traditional hotel sector and the shared accommodation sector.

“We need to lift arrivals numbers in those trough months to at least the average of the peak months. Then, relative to 2019, when we received 712,000 tourists – our best year on record – we would have roughly 800,000 visitors on our shores annually, which is a more sustainable trajectory,” he said.

Dr. Greenidge also highlighted the importance of digital engagement, building resilience, and providing high quality data to the BHTA and other data collection bodies.