The Bahamas will host the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) 2027 Conference, becoming the first Caribbean destination to do so. The milestone event highlights the nation’s leadership in sustainable tourism, showcasing initiatives in ecosystem restoration, community-based tourism, and long-term destination resilience.
The Bahamas has been selected to host the Global Sustainable Tourism Council 2027 Conference, a landmark decision that positions the island nation as a regional leader in sustainable tourism, environmental stewardship, and long-term economic resilience.
Set for May 18–21, 2027, the conference will take place at British Colonial Nassau and Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau. The event will provide a global platform for The Bahamas to showcase its practical initiatives in ecosystem restoration, nature-based tourism, and destination resilience—efforts that have elevated its reputation as an emerging sustainability leader.
Notably, this marks the first time a Caribbean destination will host the GSTC Conference. The Bahamas aims to leverage the opportunity to welcome international stakeholders while demonstrating how sustainability is actively practiced and continuously evolving across its islands.
Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) – the international accreditation body for sustainable tourism certification
Managing global standards for sustainable travel and tourism; accreditation body for sustainable tourism certification…
“We are pleased to welcome GSTC 2027 to The Bahamas and to contribute to the global dialogue on sustainable tourism,” said I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation. “As a Small Island Developing State, The Bahamas brings a unique and important perspective, and we look forward to showcasing the practical work taking place across our islands.”
Across the archipelago, sustainability efforts are being advanced through tangible, on-the-ground initiatives. These include coral reef protection, mangrove restoration, expanded training and certification in nature-based tourism and flats fishing, and the growth of community-based and cultural tourism experiences that directly benefit local communities. The establishment of Destination Stewardship Councils across multiple islands has further strengthened the integration of local perspectives into tourism planning and development.
These initiatives have earned increasing recognition regionally and internationally. The Bahamas has been recognized by the Caribbean Tourism Organization for its leadership in destination stewardship and resilience. Additionally, at the PATWA International Travel Awards 2026, Deputy Prime Minister Cooper was honored as Tourism Minister of the Year – Sustainability.
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“Sustainability in The Bahamas is being advanced through coordinated action across our islands, supported by Destination Stewardship Councils now active on seven islands, alongside continued investment in nature-based tourism and community-led experiences,” said Latia Duncombe, Director General at The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. “Hosting GSTC 2027 positions The Bahamas to demonstrate how a multi-island destination can operationalize sustainability at scale while engaging global partners to strengthen long-term resilience.”
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council is an independent organization that sets international standards for sustainable travel and tourism. It supports destinations worldwide in improving sustainability performance while fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and policy dialogue.
The 2027 conference is expected to attract approximately 400 delegates, including policymakers, tourism operators, investors, and sustainability experts from around the globe. Interested participants are encouraged to register for updates ahead of early bird registration.
An archipelago of more than 700 islands and cays—featuring 16 distinct island destinations—The Bahamas lies just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, offering easy access for international travelers. Known for its world-class fishing, diving, boating, and miles of pristine beaches, the destination continues to balance tourism growth with sustainability, reinforcing its message that in The Bahamas, sustainability is not just a promise, but a practice in motion.
