Grenada’s Sustainable Tourism Efforts Promote Local Farming and Reef Conservation

Grenada, a small island in the British West Indies, is making strides in sustainable tourism by promoting local farming and reef conservation. Theresa Marryshow, an organic farmer and president of the Grenada Network of Rural Women Producers, aims to educate visitors about sustainable food production. Marryshow’s organic farm in Bacolet supplies fresh produce to hotels and restaurants, with the Sandals Foundation being one of her major clients. The foundation also helped Marryshow expand her farm to meet the increased demand.

At Spice Island Beach Resort, the concept of farm-to-table is taken seriously. The resort’s managing director, Janelle Hopkin, established an organic herb and vegetable garden on the property. The garden practices sustainability by collecting rainwater, composting food waste, and avoiding pesticides. Hopkin acknowledges the challenges of running a five-star property while prioritizing sustainability, but believes that guests’ active participation is crucial for conservation efforts.

In an effort to protect Grenada’s fragile reefs, Phil Saye founded the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park in collaboration with artist Jason deCaires Taylor. The park, located in the Molinere Beauséjour Marine Protected Area, features 96 submerged works of art that attract divers and snorkelers away from the reefs. Saye also initiated the Grenada Artificial Reef Project, which aims to increase marine biodiversity and keep divers off the reefs by sinking concrete pyramids.

Grenada’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond farming and reef conservation. Atiba Mawuto, a Rastafarian farmer, promotes self-sufficiency and responsible land use as part of the Rastafarian approach to sustainability. Visitors to Mawuto’s farm in the Mamma Cannes region of Grenada gain insight into this philosophy and its connection to nature.

Grenadians, including cab drivers, actively embrace sustainability and demonstrate their efforts in various ways, such as maintaining herb gardens and exploring renewable energy options. The island’s residents believe that true sustainability is a way of life.

Overall, Grenada’s sustainable tourism initiatives aim to educate visitors, promote local farming, and protect the environment, making it an attractive destination for eco-conscious travelers.