Iberostar's Community-Led Marine Conservation in Jamaica

Discover how a hospitality leader is redefining sustainable tourism by protecting marine ecosystems and empowering local communities.
water landscape

OVERVIEW
Iberostar Group, a Spanish family-owned hospitality company, is aligning its business model with marine conservation through the creation of the Grange Pen Fish Sanctuary in Jamaica. Recognizing the link between healthy oceans and resilient communities, the initiative integrates coral reef restoration, community empowerment, and sustainable tourism to build a thriving blue economy. Anchored in Iberostar’s Wave of Change strategy, the sanctuary sets a precedent for public-private partnerships in conservation and tourism.

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CHALLENGES
🔹Overfishing & Coral Degradation – Declining fish populations and seagrass beds threatening biodiversity and local livelihoods
🔹Community Concerns – Initial resistance from local fishers over access and participation in resource management
🔹Ecosystem Decline – Urgent need for coastal protection and reef restoration to safeguard tourism and biodiversity

KEY RESULTS
✅ 11 alternative livelihoods created for the local community through sanctuary management and restoration roles
Established 3.3 million m² of marine protected area, with promising early signs of biomass recovery
Strengthened reefs and seagrasses for storm protection and erosion control, benefitting both ecosystems and tourism

WHO SHOULD READ THIS:
📌 Climate & Environmental Professionals
📌 Sustainability Professionals
📌 Governance Professionals
📌 Supply Chain & Procurement Professionals
📌 Strategic Planning & Business Development Professionals
📌 Small & Medium-Sized Companies

By embedding marine conservation into its core strategy, Iberostar sets a model for businesses seeking to align tourism growth with ocean health and community resilience. Discover how protecting ecosystems creates lasting value for people, planet, and prosperity.

📖 READ NOW: Iberostar