Legalize It! The Endless Economic Possibilities for the Jamaican Economy Through the Legalization of Marijuana…

Sun, Sea, Sand and Sustainability A New Relationship Between Tourism And The Environment In Jamaica

Island Paradise

Just a few statistics… “ Tourism continues to be a major catalyst for the growth and development of the Jamaican economy”- former Min. Of Tourism, Aloun N’dombet Assamba Accounts for 27% of the GDP Employment: 1 in every 4 Approximately 1.5 million visitors Main source of F/X and revenue

Attractions… Not Marijuana…no stats! Beaches, beaches, beaches Cultural Heritage Tourism Sports & Entertainment Nature& Eco- tourism

Negative Impact on Environment Coastal Degradation Construction Erosion Poorly planned developments Poor solid & water waste management Coastal and Marine Pollution Oil from cruise ships, e.g. Wastes from mining and industry Source: USAID: Jamaica Island Resource Foundation.

Sustainable Tourism… “Sustainable development is a concept that marries two conflicting ideas: development and sustainability.”- Dr. Chandi, Jayawardena, University of the West Indies Sustainable Tourism: “enabling the right balance to be struck between realizing the potential of the tourism industry to contribute to national economic development goals, without damaging the very resources that attracted the visitors in the first place” - CTO

The EAST Project, e.g. Identify environmental champions in the hotel and manufacturing industries Build the capabilities of both Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association and the Jamaica Manufacturers Association to offer environmental management services Work with vocational and tertiary institutions to include BP and EMS in curricula Transfer the lessons learned from the first phase of the project to other businesses in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean Design and implement a pilot to use as a model for a sustainable tourism destination program

The Master Plan Growth based on a sustainable market position Enhancing the visitor experience Community based development An inclusive industry Environmental sustainability Source: Ministry of Industry and Tourism

“We Need to Change our Strategy…” Environment: Focus on impact of tourism with regards to climate change Greater adherence and accountability – Master Plan Alternatives to beachfront construction

Sustainable Tourism Rocks! Thank you!