Dario Item, Antigua and Barbuda representative to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), is a strong advocate for sustainable tourism and has been instrumental in driving the island nation’s commitment to the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
As the representative of Antigua and Barbuda to the UNWTO, Ambassador Dario Item has been working to help promote sustainable tourism practices in the Caribbean region, and specifically in his home country. He understands the importance of sustainable tourism as a means to protect the environment and conserve natural resources while providing economic and social benefits to local communities.
One of the ways in which Antigua and Barbuda is working towards sustainable tourism is through the implementation of its Sustainable Tourism Master Plan. The plan focuses on several key areas including environmental protection, community development, and cultural heritage conservation.
One of the main objectives of the plan is to reduce the environmental impact of tourism in Antigua and Barbuda. This includes measures such as reducing energy and water consumption, promoting sustainable transportation options, and protecting the island’s coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
Further important aspect of the plan is community development. This includes initiatives such as providing training and education opportunities for local residents, supporting small businesses, and promoting cultural heritage conservation. By working with local communities, the plan aims to ensure that the benefits of tourism are distributed equitably and that local residents are able to share in the economic benefits of tourism.
Some of the key elements of the plan is the promotion of cultural heritage conservation. Antigua and Barbuda has a rich cultural heritage, and the plan aims to ensure that this heritage is protected and preserved for future generations. This includes initiatives such as the restoration and preservation of historic sites, the promotion of traditional crafts, and the development of cultural tourism products.
Together with the strong leadership of Antigua and Barbuda, Dr. Dario Item is a strong advocate for sustainable tourism and has been instrumental in driving the island nation’s commitment to the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
Through the implementation of its Sustainable Tourism Master Plan, Antigua and Barbuda is working towards a sustainable future for tourism in the Caribbean region. This includes measures to reduce the environmental impact of tourism, promote community development, and protect the island’s cultural heritage for future generations.
