Sustainable Travel to U.S.V.I’s
Sustainable Travel to the USVI
At Villa Del Mar, St. Thomas, we are dedicated to promoting sustainable travel in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI). As global citizens, we recognize the importance of responsible tourism and the benefits it brings to the local community and environment. Here are some ways in which you can practice sustainable travel during your visit to the USVI’s.
1. Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodations
Opting for eco-friendly accommodations such as Villa Del Mar, St. Thomas, is a great way to start your sustainable travel journey. Our villa is designed with sustainability in mind by utilizing energy-efficient appliances, solar power, and rainwater harvesting systems. By staying at eco-friendly establishments you support local businesses that prioritize environmental preservation.
2. Support Local Businesses
When enjoying your time on the USVI, make an effort to support the locals. Indulge in locally sourced cuisine at restaurants that prioritize sustainable fishing practices and farm-to-table concepts. A few St. Thomas restaurants that utilize locally sourced items included Oceana, Old Stone Farmhouse, The Twisted Cork, Pangea and Caribbean Fish Market. Shop at local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts made by local artisans, and don’t forget to visit some of our local art galleries, such as Mango Tango Art Gallery, 81C Gallery and Gallery St. Thomas, You’ll contribute to the local artist and economy, and bring home a one of a kind souvenir to cherish forever.
3. Conserve Water and Energy
While staying at Villa St. Thomas or any other accommodation, practice water and energy conservation. This could include taking shorter showers, turning off lights and electronics when not in use, and using air conditioning responsibly. Villa Del Mar utilizes a rainwater catchment system and we process our own water with our own three step water purification system. We installed our solar power system in August of 2022, and were able to cut the draw on the island grid by 1/2-1/3 per month. By being mindful of your resource consumption, you help reduce the strain on the local infrastructure and contribute to the overall sustainability of the USVI.
4. Respect the Natural Environment
The USVI is blessed with stunning natural beauty including pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush forests. It is paramount to respect the natural environment during your visit. Avoid littering by picking up after yourself and adhere to designated trails when exploring nature reserves and parks. Help protect the delicate ecosystems and preserve them for future generations.
The USVI is renowned for its spectacular marine life and vibrant coral reefs. When engaging in water activities such as snorkeling or diving, ensure you do so responsibly. Never step or touch the corals or sea creatures, and use reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and the delicate aquatic ecosystem. Be mindful of boating practices to avoid damaging coral reefs or seagrass beds.
In July of 2019, the USVI pass legislation banning the use of sunscreen that damages marine life. Reef-safe sunscreen is specially formulated to protect your skin from harmful UV rays while ensuring minimal impact on marine life and coral reefs. Traditional sunscreens containing chemicals such as oxybenzone, octinoxate and octocrylene have been found to bleach and disrupt the delicate ecosystem of coral reefs. In contrast, reef-safe sunscreens use naturally derived, mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide effective protection without harming the environment. Reef Safe Sunscreen can be difficult to choose for both efficacy and safety. Many sunscreens that advertise themselves as ‘reef safe’ in fact still contain ingredients that can damage the corals. As we care deeply about the environment and the beautiful coral reefs surrounding our island, we encourage all our guests to use reef-safe sunscreen during their stay. If you're looking for reef-safe sunscreen during your stay, our team would be delighted to recommend local shops and pharmacies where you can find a wide selection of environmentally friendly sun protection products.
V.I. Reef Response is a local non-profit organization dedicated to increase coral cover and diversity of coral reefs around the Virgin Islands. You can become a reef responder by following the link at REEF RESPONSE.
5. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Practicing the three R's (reduce, reuse, and recycle) is crucial for sustainable travel. Minimize your waste by carrying a reusable water bottle and shopping bag, using eco-friendly toiletries, and avoiding single-use plastics whenever possible. Villa Del Mar Provides insulated reusable water bottles and tumblers for your use while staying at Del Mar. Shampoo, conditioner and soaps are all provided in refillable containers to eliminate single use plastics in our property. Shopping bags are located in the villa for your use, and we provide a beach tote and reusable packable coolers during your stay. Sadly, St. Thomas does not have a recycling program on the island. We ask you reduce your usage whenever possible. By minimizing your environmental footprint you contribute to the long-term preservation of the USVI's natural beauty.
6. Learn and Educate
Take the opportunity to learn about the local culture, history, and environmental challenges when visiting the USVI. Engage with the community and participate in educational initiatives or guided tours that promote sustainability. By learning and educating others about the importance of sustainable travel, you play an active role in fostering a more mindful and responsible approach towards tourism in the USVI.
By embracing sustainable travel practices, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience in the USVI while positively contributing to its environmental and social well-being. At Villa Del Mar, St. Thomas, we support and encourage sustainable travel, and we invite you to join us in this journey towards a greener future.