As tourism continues to rise globally, many popular destinations are facing challenges like overcrowding and environmental strain. In response, the Caribbean island of Curaçao is taking proactive steps to ensure its tourism remains sustainable in the long term.
The island is partnering with Sustainable Travel International and the George Washington University International Institute of Tourism Studies (GW IITS) to carry out a Destination Carrying Capacity Study. This study will look at the economic, environmental, and social effects of increased tourism. By focusing not just on growing visitor numbers, but also on tourism’s overall value, Curaçao aims to create a sustainable tourism model that supports economic growth while protecting the environment, preserving culture, and improving the experience for both visitors and locals.
Addressing Growth and Challenges
In 2024, global tourism rebounded, reaching 1.4 billion international arrivals, nearly matching pre-pandemic levels. This growth has brought economic benefits but also problems such as overcrowding, environmental damage, and strain on local infrastructure. Many destinations are struggling to cope with these pressures.
Curaçao is also seeing a rise in tourism, with over 700,000 visitors expected in 2024 and strong numbers continuing into 2025. Known for its rich culture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant heritage, the island is a popular choice for travelers. However, the government is aware that increased tourism could lead to challenges. To address this, Curaçao is taking early steps to ensure future growth is manageable and sustainable.
Shifting Focus Toward Balanced Growth
To manage tourism more effectively, Curaçao is working with Sustainable Travel International and GW IITS on a detailed study that will guide the island’s tourism planning. Traditional measures of tourism success, such as the number of visitors and revenue, do not account for the broader impacts on communities, the environment, and long-term sustainability. Instead, Curaçao is focusing on a more holistic approach, looking at factors like community feedback, environmental health, infrastructure capacity, and cultural preservation.
Key components of this approach include:
- Assessing the current and future impacts of tourism and using that data to inform policy decisions.
- Creating an action plan that aligns with local needs, promoting a tourism model that delivers high value with minimal impact.
- Setting up a flexible monitoring system to track tourism’s effects and adjust key factors to maintain balance.
Involving All Stakeholders
A key part of Curaçao’s efforts is ensuring that everyone has a role in shaping the island’s tourism future. The study will engage a wide range of stakeholders, including public and private sector representatives, local communities, and industry leaders. The goal is to include the opinions of both residents and visitors, encouraging a sense of shared responsibility in tourism development.
“This isn’t about limiting tourism—it’s about managing it wisely,” said Paloma Zapata, CEO of Sustainable Travel International. “Rather than depleting resources or encouraging overtourism, we want to create a cycle where thoughtful growth supports community well-being and preserves the island’s unique appeal for future generations. This, in turn, improves visitor experiences and generates economic benefits that can be reinvested in continuous improvement.”
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