The Tribune

THE Ministry of Tourism has designated February as Sustainable Tourism Month to mark the 50th anniversary of the country’s number one industry.

The anniversary celebration will last throughout 2014 and part of the activities have been planned to promote sustainable development and appreciation for the country’s natural and cultural resources.

Earlston McPhee, director of sustainable tourism in the Ministry of Tourism, underscored the importance of preserving the environment for residents and visitors to enjoy and appreciate.

Among the highlights of the month is a Small Island Developing States Conference (SIDS), slated for February 19 and 20 at the Melia Nassau Beach Resort on Cable Beach.

Sponsored by the ministry in conjunction with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation and the Inter-American Development Bank, the conference will be held under the theme: “Tourism as a Key Sector for Development in Island States”.

Following the conference at the Melia Nassau Beach Resort, an exhibition will be staged from February 25 to 27.

It will feature concepts of sustainability and be designed to encourage students to use their skills and passion to pursue sustainable development by embracing cultural aspects unique to the Bahamas.

Other activities planned for February include the restoration of the Queen’s Staircase and other historic sites around the country, and a top 12 natural wonders of the Bahamas will be identified through a competition.

The event will seek to identify the best beaches in the country.

Also planned to round off the month are energy savings campaigns and a clean-up campaign.