At COP29 in Baku, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) aims to advocate for climate action and funding for small island developing states (SIDS). Highlighting the many challenges posed by climate change to the tourism sector, the CTO’s Secretary-General, Dona Regis-Prosper, emphasizes the importance of addressing these vulnerabilities. The CTO seeks stronger global commitments to protect the Caribbean’s tourism-dependent economies through sustainable practices and climate-resilient infrastructure.
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has asserted itself as a crucial advocate for climate action at the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. The organization seeks to amplify the voice of Caribbean nations by articulating the severe climate challenges encountered by small island developing states (SIDS). Emphasizing the fragility of the tourism sector, the CTO will draw attention to the consequences of climate change on the livelihoods of approximately 44.5 million residents within the region. The adverse impacts include more frequent and intense hurricanes, rising sea levels, and environmental degradation that threaten both infrastructure and natural landscapes. Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General & CEO of the CTO, stated, “Tourism is the heartbeat of the Caribbean. Yet, we must confront the stark reality that our islands contribute the least but are among the most vulnerable to climate change. The effects of rising sea levels, beach erosion, and stronger and unpredictable hurricanes impact not only our economies but also the very essence of Caribbean life.” This statement underscores the extent of vulnerability that Caribbean islands face despite contributing minimally to global emissions. The CTO’s participation at COP29 aims to foster climate-resilient tourism practices and to ensure that international climate action effectively addresses the unique challenges presented by the region. The organization aligns itself with the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism and anticipates significant outcomes from COP29 that will integrate tourism into broader climate resilience strategies. A high-level discussion featuring Ministers of Tourism is scheduled, which will emphasize a unified call for enhanced climate action, increased funding for resilience, and policy support necessary for sustaining tourism-based economies in the Caribbean. The CTO’s ongoing engagement in advocating for sustainable tourism, renewable energy adoption, and climate-resilient infrastructure highlights that climate vulnerabilities affecting the Caribbean are indeed a global issue, necessitating immediate collective response. An acknowledgment of the intertwined fates between tourism and climate change is critical for future planning and resilience in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.
The Caribbean region, composed of numerous small island developing states (SIDS), faces significant climatic threats due to its geographical vulnerabilities. The impacts of climate change—such as rising sea levels, increased hurricane intensity, and widespread environmental degradation—present direct challenges to the core economic pillar of the tourist industry. The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) seeks to address these challenges by advocating for crucial climate financing and implementing robust policies aimed at mitigating environmental risks while fostering tourism that is sustainable and resilient.
The CTO’s proactive stance at COP29 exemplifies the urgent need to address climate vulnerabilities within the Caribbean. By amplifying the region’s concerns, advocating for climate-resilient practices, and calling for increased international collaboration and funding, the CTO aims to safeguard the future of tourism and the livelihoods of millions in the Caribbean. The conference serves as a critical platform for ensuring that the unique challenges faced by SIDS receive the global attention they warrant.
Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com
