The term “green” has had quite the journey over the last few decades. What began as a term that demonstrated concern for the environment has become an all-encompassing philosophy covering everything from clean energy to a holistic approach to sustainable development. Ultimately, it’s about impact — reducing impact on the environment, while expanding impact on the local community.

When we talk about green hotels, we’re talking about all of these things. While the increased conversation on sustainability is a very welcome development, there are certain hotels in the region doing a bit more to make a “green” impact, whether from journeying off the grid to being climate-smart to making a deeper difference in their local communities. 

This Earth Day, the 2023 edition of the Caribbean’s Greenest Hotels looks to celebrate those hotels that are setting the standard for what it means to be “green” in today’s world. 

“The landscape of sustainability in the Caribbean tourism industry has never been brighter, as more and more hotel properties make it a true priority,” said Alexander Britell, editor and publisher of Caribbean Journal. “This year’s Greenest Hotels list is a nod to those hotels that are going the extra mile to make a difference and show the ways that going green actually enrich the travel experience.”

Golden Rock Dive and Nature Resort Statia The Dutch Caribbean island of Statia has made no secret of its push to be at the forefront of the region’s green movement. And Statia’s premier hotel, the new Golden Rock, has sustainability as an essential focus. It begins with energy, which remains the number one fundament of the word green. Here, the hotel is completely off the grid. That means solar panels completely power the resort; the property uses reverse osmosis to create drinking water, storing nearly 240,000 liters at a time; all part of an all-encompassing program that encourages visitors to engage and connect with this nature-focused island. It’s the standard-bearer for a destination that is looking to set the next big example for the Caribbean.