CTO and ICF Partner to Boost Sustainable Tourism, Climate Resilience in the Caribbean

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with global consulting firm ICF to explore joint initiatives supporting sustainable tourism development, climate adaptation, and resilience building across the Caribbean. The agreement, signed in London during World Travel Market, reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the region’s long-term tourism sustainability.

The MOU outlines potential collaboration in several key areas, including technical assistance, destination governance, market competitiveness, and capacity building. Both parties intend to promote inclusive governance models that engage local residents, encourage public-private partnerships, and support knowledge sharing aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Under the agreement, CTO and ICF may work together on technical advisory services for sustainable and regenerative tourism. They will also explore opportunities to support technical assistance initiatives and develop capacity-building programs for tourism stakeholders across the region, focusing on issues of mutual interest that can enhance industry expertise.

CTO Secretary-General and CEO Dona Regis-Prosper said the partnership reinforces CTO’s mission to lead the region’s sustainable tourism agenda. She emphasized that ICF’s experience in destination strategy, climate resilience, and sustainable development will help strengthen Caribbean nations and advance a more inclusive and competitive tourism sector.

Echoing this commitment, Nikolaos Gkolfinopoulos, Head of Tourism at ICF, said the firm is dedicated to supporting responsible tourism development worldwide. He noted that ICF aims to be a trusted partner in propelling regional tourism growth by leveraging its global solutions and interdisciplinary expertise across sectors relevant to the Caribbean.

The MOU, signed last week at one of the world's major travel industry events, will remain in effect until 2029, allowing both organizations to pursue long-term initiatives that advance the Caribbean’s transformation toward sustainable and resilient tourism.