The St. Eustatius Tourism Development Foundation (STDF) is preparing to host a major sustainable conference from September 25th – 27th 2012, during which delegates will discuss critical issues relating to the island’s sustainability.
The STDF, the agency responsible for the promotion and development of tourism on St. Eustatius, has announced the theme of the conference as “Powering Sustainable Development”.
This inaugural conference will challenge tourism planners, policymakers, stakeholders and the general public to develop and implement strategies and practices that can sustain Statia’s limited resources.
“We are excited about this initiative which will help the entire island focus on this very critical issue of sustainability,” said Product Development Manager, Maya Leon-Pandt.
“We encourage the general public to come out and make use of this great opportunity, which will be beneficial to everyone, including local agricultural and other producers, hoteliers and energy companies.”
The conference will address a number of critical issues such as how the local community can benefit from engaging in sustainable practices. A number of experts have already confirmed their participation and will share their knowledge in areas like renewable energy sources – hydroelectricity, solar energy, wind energy, agro tourism, and how to maximize the benefits from local products.
The conference will, which will be held at the Van Putten Youth Centre, will also feature an exhibition at Fort Oranje at which local businesses will get to display and sell their sustainable products.
