Guyana’s Sustainability Efforts Deserve Global Recognition: Why the Caribbean and the World Should Pay Attention [OpEd]

It’s hard not to notice that Guyana’s contributions to sustainable tourism seem to be overlooked in major global forums. Reflecting on the recent World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, I couldn’t help but feel that the absence of Guyana from the winner’s circle was a missed opportunity. Launched in 2023 during COP28 in Dubai, the awards serve to recognize and celebrate the individuals and organizations driving change in sustainable travel and tourism. Guyana, with its strong eco-tourism initiatives and community-driven sustainability models, deserves a spotlight on these platforms. And, including Guyana in initiatives like this is not just essential for the country but critical for the Caribbean region and the world.

In what might be received as my very biased opinion, Guyana stands out with its community-led tourism model, which has allowed remote, often indigenous communities to thrive. In places like Surama, locals have taken control of tourism ventures, making them entirely self-sufficient. These community-owned lodges and tour operations generate income while preserving their unique cultural traditions and protecting the environment. Grassroot sustainability like this is transformative—and yet, it often goes underappreciated on the world stage.

Guyana’s commitment to protecting the Amazon Rainforest further solidifies its role as a leader in sustainability. Over 80% of the country is covered in dense forest, home to some of the world’s most vital ecosystems. The Iwokrama Forest stands is a prime example. This is a conservation success story where biodiversity is being preserved while research shapes how we protect natural resources. Then there’s Shell Beach – where endangered sea turtles nest – a crucial marine conservation effort that is educating tourists and locals alike about environmental stewardship. These are just two examples of how Guyana’s tourism is tied to sustainability, yet international recognition remains limited.

Including Guyana in global discussions like the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, which (I must add) is operated in partnership with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, would undoubtedly help boost its visibility. The Alliance itself brings together companies and strategic partners from across the hospitality industry to address global challenges related to climate, sustainability, and responsible tourism. Guyana’s tourism model is a perfect fit for this. Global recognition would not only benefit Guyana on the one hand, but inspire other nations in the Caribbean and Amazon regions to adopt similar sustainable practices.?

In the Caribbean, other nations are also making bold moves toward sustainability. Take Barbados, for example, which has committed to becoming the world’s first 100% green, fossil-free island by 2030. This ambitious plan – which is well underway I might add – aligns with the UNSDG #7, which focuses on affordable and clean energy. Barbados is also pushing the Blue Economy, prioritizing sustainable oceanic activities such as marine conservation and eco-tourism, much like Guyana’s efforts to protect its coastal ecosystems. The country’s leadership in renewable energy and ocean conservation deserves the same global recognition as Guyana’s pioneering work in eco-tourism.

Let’s look at Antigua as well, which is gaining attention for its marine conservation and sustainable tourism. The island is home to several marine reserves, and its eco-friendly resorts have become increasingly popular among tourists who care about minimizing their environmental footprint. Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, demonstrates how tourism can align with historical preservation and environmental sustainability. Antigua’s initiatives are deeply rooted in educating both visitors and locals about the importance of responsible tourism, and like Guyana, Antigua has much to offer the global conversation on sustainability.

Guyana’s unique position as a steward of the Amazon is vital. Often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth," the Amazon plays a crucial role in regulating the planet’s climate. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), protecting the Amazon is not just a local issue—it’s a global necessity. As part of this larger ecosystem, Guyana’s contributions could act as a blueprint for countries around the world on how to develop tourism sustainably. Including Guyana in more global platforms like that which took place in Belize, could also increase international support for protecting the Amazon and spotlighting the importance of this vast ecosystem to the entire planet.

Additionally, having Guyana more involved in these initiatives can also have a ripple effect across the Caribbean and the Amazon Basin. In my opinion, collaboration with nations like Barbados and Antigua could lead to a more unified approach to sustainable tourism across the region. The United Nations – which is ironically hosting its 79th GA at the time of this OpEd – has long advocated for regional integration as a way to combat shared challenges like climate change, and the Caribbean is no exception. The success of community-led tourism in Guyana can serve as a model for other island nations looking to balance economic development with environmental preservation.

Moreover, as climate change intensifies, countries in the Caribbean and around the Amazon are already experiencing devastating impacts. Rising sea levels, stronger hurricanes, and unpredictable weather patterns are becoming the new normal. By adopting Guyana’s model of sustainable tourism and conservation, these nations can build a more resilient future. The global tourism industry, responsible for a significant portion of the world’s carbon emissions, stands to learn a great deal from Guyana’s low-impact, community-centered tourism initiatives.

It’s clear that the world needs to pay more attention to countries like Guyana. It has proven that economic development can go hand-in-hand with environmental conservation. Recognizing and celebrating Guyana’s achievements in sustainability – whether through awards like the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards or other global platforms – would not only give the country its well-deserved moment in the spotlight but also encourage other nations to follow suit.

Guyana’s role in protecting the Amazon, leading community-driven eco-tourism, and advancing sustainable conservation efforts is critical to the global fight against climate change.

I will conclude by saying that by including Guyana in more sustainability initiatives and discussions, we’re not only helping to preserve one of the most vital ecosystems on the planet but also creating a blueprint for a more sustainable future for the Caribbean and the world.

It’s time we give credit where it’s due and recognize Guyana as a leader in sustainability.