On World Tourism Day, September 27th, Block Island, Rhode Island, takes a stand for a brighter future by embracing sustainable tourism practices. As a proud sponsor of the ‘100 Travel Innovations’ initiative, the Block Island Tourism Council is actively promoting sustainable travel across the globe. The initiative features a collection of stories highlighting programs and activities from 100 destinations worldwide, all aimed at improving lives environmentally, economically, and socially.
Block Island’s commitment to environmental conservation is evident in its numerous sustainability efforts. The island has implemented initiatives like ‘Leave no trace’ principles, a ban on single-use plastics, regular beach clean-ups, and educational programs to encourage responsible behavior among both locals and visitors. Jessica Willi, Executive Director of the Block Island Tourism Council, emphasizes the importance of these efforts: “With its abundant biodiversity, Block Island has a unique ecosystem that must be preserved. Sustainability efforts are vital to conserving the island’s beauty and environmental health for generations to come. Through educational programs and community involvement, we are dedicated to protecting the island’s natural wonders. We urge our locals and visitors to be mindful of the impact they can have to ensure that Block Island remains a destination for all to enjoy.”
The Block Island Tourism Council recognizes that travel is not just about exploring new places; it’s about connecting people and fostering new perspectives. The tourism industry has a unique responsibility to lead by example and drive innovation towards a more sustainable future. The ‘100 Travel Innovations’ initiative, launched on World Tourism Day, features a collection of the first 100 innovations that address crucial issues like biodiversity, climate resilience, cultural preservation, community prosperity, equality, modernization, responsible tourism, and job creation. This carefully curated collection, evaluated by Destination Think’s editorial team in collaboration with Todd Montgomery, professor at Oregon State University and director of the Sustainable Tourism Lab, will continue to grow, providing inspiration and guidance for those who want to make a meaningful difference in the world.
To learn more about the innovative sustainability efforts happening on Block Island, visit www.blockislandinfo.com. For information about Rhode Island’s tourism initiatives, visit www.visitrhodeisland.com.
