Belize will be the host Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development (STC 2026) from April 27-30 to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, BelizeCaribbean Journal has learned.
This is a natural fit for a destination that offers the best sustainable tourism product in the wider region.
Now in it 17th editionThe conference will bring together local and international tourism leaders around the theme “Full Color Tourism: Integrating Blue, Green, Orange and Beyond Economies into Sustainable Planning and Development.”
“STC 2026 reflects the Caribbean region’s commitment to reimagine tourism as a powerful driver of inclusive growth, climate resilience and cultural vitality.” Donna Regis-ProsperHe is the Secretary General and CEO of CTO. “By embracing a full-color tourism approach, we are encouraging destinations to move beyond piecemeal planning and adopt integrated models that balance environmental stewardship, cultural identity, community well-being and economic opportunity.”
Belize Minister of Tourism Anthony MahlerIn a statement provided to Caribbean Journal, the destination said it was “deeply honored” to host the conference.
“This conference highlights Belize’s commitment to sustainable tourism and strengthens its role as a catalyst for innovation and responsible growth in the Caribbean region,” he said. “STC 2026 will serve as a dynamic platform for bold ideas and strategic partnerships. I invite industry partners and policymakers to help shape a sustainable future for Caribbean tourism.”
“Full Color Tourism” approach
The CTO said the conference will be based on an integrated development framework linking multiple tourism economies, including: blue economy The focus is on the responsible use of marine and coastal resources. that green economy Advancing climate-resilient, low-carbon and nature-friendly tourism solutions; and orange economyEmphasis is placed on culture, heritage and creative industries.
The conference will also explore “beyond the economy,” including: Purple EconomyIt focuses on values, social cohesion, identity, wellbeing and inclusive growth.
Four days of programming on Ambergris Caye
STC 2026 will include a four-day program featuring ministerial meetings, expert plenary sessions, concurrent technical sessions, masterclasses and field-based learning experiences focused on sustainable tourism practices.
According to the CTO, the sessions will cover topics including blue and green finance, climate risk management, regenerative tourism, cultural tourism, creative industries and governance models for emerging tourism frameworks.
