Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST) Reelects Sir Royston O. Hopkin, KCMG, as Chairman for 4th Consecutive Term

In its 2010-2011 election, CHTA’s environmental arm, the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST), recently re-elected Sir Royston O. Hopkin, KCMG, owner and chairman of Grenada’s award-winning Spice Island Beach Resort, as Chairman of CAST for the fourth consecutive, two-year term.

“CHTA is delighted that Sir Royston has been reelected as the Chairman of CAST by the CAST Governing Council. Sir Royston has been at the forefront of sustainable tourism issues from the very beginning working tirelessly to ensure the sustainability of the Caribbean hospitality industry, and has always exhibited the necessary dedication, perseverance and professionalism,” said Alec Sanguinetti, CD – Director General & CEO of the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association.

“It has been a true pleasure to serve on a council that understands the importance of not only implementing environmentally friendly practices, but encouraging the entire region to engage in these initiatives,” expressed Sir Royston O. Hopkin, KCMG, owner and chairman, Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada. “With climate change set to be the major issue of the next decade, global attention will be on the Caribbean as our region will be one of the most adversely affected,” noted Hopkin. “What we do today will set the stage for much wider global initiatives and we are prepared to face these environmental challenges with great resolve and ingenuity,” he added.

During the Annual Governing Council meeting (pictured above), sessions were held to discuss issues relating to the initiatives that the institution is implementing, with special focus on the Caribbean Hotel Energy Efficiency Action project (CHENACT), which is currently being executed in Barbados in conjunction with the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO).

The goal of the $2 million CHENACT project is to drive Caribbean hotels to implement energy efficient practices and to generate their own renewable energy. This, in turn, is expected to enhance their competitiveness through improved energy use.

CAST is a non-profit entity established in 1997 to promote responsible environmental and social management of natural and heritage resources respectively within the hotel and tourism sector.

CAST is focused on the implementation of regional projects in collaboration with developmental entities and international financial agencies. Current priority objectives include the identification and promotion of the natural and cultural resources of the Caribbean, integration of energy and water conservation programs in hotels and support for solid and liquid waste management in tourist destinations.