Building a more sustainable future for tourism

Tourism is one of Sint Maarten's greatest strengths. It supports livelihoods, creates opportunities for local businesses and communities, and allows us to share what makes our island unique with people from around the world.


But the tourism landscape is changing. Sustainability is increasingly influencing how destinations are perceived, how businesses operate and where travelers, investors and international partners choose to place their confidence.


For Sint Maarten, this creates both a responsibility and an opportunity.

Together with the Sint Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, we set out to better understand how sustainability is viewed across our tourism sector. More than 200 stakeholders shared their perspectives, from resorts and hotels to vendors, international buyers, tourism organizations and members of our community.

 

Discover how visibility drives performance
Key Findings from the Report

Key Findings from the Report

1.
97% of NGO's believe sustainable tourism matters
NGOs believe sustainable tourism is important to the future of Sint Maarten, with sustainability closely connected to protecting the island’s natural environment and cultural identity.
2.
90% says sustainability supports business success
Resorts and hotels recognise sustainability as an important contributor to long-term business success, with many already incorporating sustainable practices into their operations.
3.
75% of vendors plan to invest in sustainability
Vendors are looking ahead, with three quarters intending to invest in sustainability initiatives within the next two years, building on the practices already being implemented across their businesses.

    Building a more sustainable tourism sector

    The findings point to a shared opportunity for Sint Maarten / Saint Martin: turning commitment into continued action. Collaboration between tourism businesses, government, international partners and the wider community can help strengthen sustainability across the destination.


    Building a more sustainable tourism sector requires more than ambition. It requires insight, collaboration and action.