Iberostar backs expansion of marine conservation through Grange Pen sanctuary

Iberostar Hotels & Resorts is bolstering marine conservation in Jamaica through its involvement in the Grange Pen Fish Sanctuary. The hotel group highlighted this partnership at the Sustainable Blue Economy Conference in Jamaica, emphasizing its role in restoring marine ecosystems and generating employment for local communities.

The Grange Pen Fish Sanctuary, established in 2025, spans approximately 3.3 million square meters. It is a collaborative effort involving Iberostar, the Oracabessa Marine Trust, local fishing communities, and government agencies. The sanctuary's primary goals are to help fish populations recover, strengthen biodiversity, and improve the resilience of coastal ecosystems facing the impacts of climate change. Iberostar has also set up a coral nursery within the sanctuary to support reef restoration activities.

This project directly supports Jamaica's pledge under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to safeguard 30 percent of its coastal and marine ecosystems by 2030. Victor Galván, global director of nature at Iberostar Hotels & Resorts, views conservation projects as vital investments in the long-term sustainability of tourism destinations, rather than mere regulatory duties. "By investing in nature, we are building more resilient destinations, stronger communities and a more competitive tourism industry for the future," Galván stated.

Iberostar advocates for increased collaboration among governments, private companies, conservation organizations, and local communities to scale up nature-based projects and secure financing for Jamaica's blue economy. The Grange Pen sanctuary operates on a community-based management model, actively involving local fisherfolk in its oversight. This approach has generated employment for park wardens, coral gardeners, and sanctuary management staff, providing communities with a direct stake in marine resource protection and offering alternative income streams. The sanctuary is part of Iberostar's "Wave of Change" sustainability program, integrating biodiversity protection across its operations.

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By investing in nature, we are building more resilient destinations, stronger communities and a more competitive tourism industry for the future.