Saturday, June 8, 2024 The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) marked a historic milestone with the launch of the inaugural Marketplace Responsible Tourism Day during this year’s Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Held on Thursday, May 23, 2024, the pioneering event emphasized sustainable tourism development and community engagement in Jamaica. “Marketplace Responsible Tourism Day has sparked a spirit of collaboration and innovation among tourism industry stakeholders.
The enthusiasm and dedication shown by delegates in working together on sustainable initiatives are setting the stage for more integrated and cooperative approaches to tourism development,” said Nicola Madden-Greig, President of CHTA. A visit to the SOS Children’s Village in Barrett Town was another heartfelt highlight. Participants painted, conducted carpentry repairs, and launched a village farming project.
Over 40 delegates participated, generously donating clothing and school supplies, leaving a lasting impact on the children’s lives. Participants gathered at the scenic Croydon in the Mountains, planting 33 jackfruit and breadfruit trees and learning about sustainable agriculture practices. Delegates were introduced to the 1:1:1 Reforestation Initiative, which aims to provide each of the 1.
2 million children in Jamaica’s school system with a tree annually, promoting food sustainability and carbon sequestration. Delegates also engaged in a beach clean-up at the Monte.
