Four of the Mesoamerican Caribbean’s most popular destinations are working hard to balance sustainability with business growth through their partnership with the Mesoamerican Reef Tourism Initiative (MARTI) and Sustainable Travel International. Riviera Maya, Cozumel, Roatán, and Utila have assessed their environmental footprints and developed plans to receive sustainable destination certifications....
In Cozumel, an island off the coast of Mexico, tourism has threatened the fragile reef. To prevent further damage, MARTI partnered with Cozumel Reef National Park to require a Sustainable Marine Recreation (SMR) course for tour operators who take visitors to see the reef. This course helps tour guides explain...
With real estate development growing rapidly in Quintana Roo, MARTI, the Asociación Amigos de Sian Ka’an (Spanish acronym ASK), and the Ministry of Tourism of Quintana Roo launched the Guide for Sustainable Planning, Design, and Construction in the Mexican Caribbean. Within this guide, developers can find more information about local...
The MesoAmerican Reef Tourism Initiative (MARTI) works with 130 hotels in Quintana Roo to help them improve their sustainability programs. The Sustainable Hospitality Program has been incredibly successful, helping hotels implement programs that reduce guests’ carbon footprint during their stay. The Palladium Hotels and The Bahia Principe Hotels are two...
MARTI helped communities expand access to wastewater treatment and education in Quintana Roo, Mexico, and Roatán, Honduras. The program provided residents with wastewater treatment hookups and educated thousands of children about the importance of proper water treatment. By providing locals with a way to treat their dirty water, MARTI successfully...
Since 2009, venomous lionfish have been invading Cozumel Reef National Park, killing native fish and scaring both locals and tourists. Mexico’s National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) quickly launched a successful campaign to get locals and tourists involved in turning the invasive species into a popular menu item. Divers...