Green Globe Trailblazer: Ocean Club Resorts’ Journey to Sustainability Certification

Travelers today want more than a beautiful beach—they want their stay to make a positive impact. As a true Green Globe Trailblazer, Ocean Club Resorts became the first properties in Turks & Caicos to achieve Green Globe Certification for sustainable operations. Here’s how that commitment comes to life across the resorts, what it means for the environment, and how you can participate in meaningful, easy ways during your stay on Grace Bay Beach.

What is Green Globe Certification?

Green Globe Certification is a globally recognized benchmark for sustainability in travel and hospitality. In practice, it reflects a resort’s long-term commitment to responsible operations, from resource efficiency to community and environmental stewardship. Ocean Club Resorts’ status as the first Green Globe Certified properties in Turks & Caicos underscores a leadership role in protecting the islands’ natural beauty while maintaining high service standards.

Why sustainability matters on Grace Bay

Grace Bay/Providenciales—home to Ocean Club and Ocean Club West—has been celebrated for its pristine shoreline, named the “Best Destination in the World for Beach & Sun” (TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice 2010) and earning Condé Nast Traveler’s 2001 Gold List title of “Best Beach of All Tropical Islands in the World.” Preserving this award-winning coastline and the surrounding marine ecosystem, including access to the third largest coral reef system, ensures future travelers experience the same breathtaking setting.

The journey: How Ocean Club Resorts earned Green Globe status

Ocean Club Resorts pairs everyday operational choices with guest-focused programs that reduce environmental impact and build a culture of care.

Smarter operations, smaller footprint

• Reusable shopping bags in each suite to reduce single-use plastics.
• Paper straws across dining venues to minimize plastic waste.
• LED lighting upgrades for energy-efficient illumination.
• Guest engagement that encourages reduced water and energy use during each stay.

These simple, visible touches help cut waste without compromising comfort.

Partnerships that multiply impact

• Wayaj carbon footprint calculator: A dedicated tool, integrated into the Ocean Club Resorts website, lets travelers calculate the carbon generated by their trip and offset it through verified projects. Actionable offsets include beach clean-ups, coral reef and marine life protection, education on eco-friendly practices, donations to similar initiatives, and more.
• Like-minded vendors: Purchasing decisions prioritize eco-friendly products and partnerships that align with the resorts’ sustainability goals.

Inspiring guests to be stewards of the islands

• TCI Reef Fund donation: At booking or check-in, guests can opt into a voluntary US $2 per-night donation, with 100% of proceeds supporting local reef preservation and restoration projects.
• Immersive nature experiences: From the self-guided Seafari program for junior explorers to those signature pink umbrellas framing turquoise views, the resorts weave appreciation of nature into daily life—because meaningful experiences spark long-term conservation mindsets.

Eco-initiatives you can experience now

Sustainability at Ocean Club Resorts is hands-on and guest-friendly.

• Offset your trip: Use the on-site Wayaj carbon footprint calculator to measure and offset travel emissions.
• Support the reef: Add the US $2 per-night TCI Reef Fund donation to directly benefit local coral conservation.
• Choose low-impact adventure:
  • Take a short boat ride to survey the region’s celebrated coral reef system.
  • Enjoy the resorts’ complimentary kayaks or paddleboards to spot schools of fish in crystal-clear waters.
  • Snorkel nearby at Smith’s Reef and the Bight Reef (Coral Gardens)—both renowned for encounters with Green Turtles grazing on seagrass.
  • Join guided eco-tours through nearby mangrove channels via kayak or paddleboard to observe juvenile sea turtles in their natural nursery habitats.
  • Bike leisurely around Providenciales to discover local flora and fauna at an unhurried pace.
• Dine with a local touch: At Opus Wine Bar & Grille (Ocean Club East), menus feature seasonal ingredients sourced in partnership with local vendors—an approach that supports the island community.

For more planning resources, explore on-site sections like Experiences: Watersports & Excursions, Pools & BBQ, About the Island, Giving Back, and the Online Media Gallery for inspiration.

Quick answers for eco-minded travelers

Is Ocean Club Resorts Green Globe Certified?

Yes. Ocean Club Resorts were the first properties in Turks & Caicos to achieve Green Globe Certification for sustainable operations.

How can I offset the carbon from my trip?

Use the Wayaj carbon footprint calculator available through the Ocean Club Resorts website, then select verified projects—such as beach clean-ups and coral protection—to offset your emissions.

What simple actions can I take during my stay to be greener?

Use the reusable shopping bags in your suite, opt for paper straws, and follow the resorts’ guidance to reduce water and energy use during your stay.

How can I directly support marine conservation?

Add the voluntary US $2 per-night TCI Reef Fund donation at booking or check-in; 100% of proceeds support local reef restoration and preservation.

Where can I see sea turtles near the resorts?

Head to Smith’s Reef and the Bight Reef (Coral Gardens)—both are a short trip from the resorts and are known for Green Turtle sightings.

Are there guided eco-tours for wildlife watching?

Yes. The resort can book kayaking or paddle-boarding eco-tours through nearby mangrove channels to view juvenile sea turtles in their natural nursery habitats.

Practical takeaways: Make your Ocean Club stay even greener

1. Calculate and offset: Start your trip with the Wayaj carbon calculator and choose verified offset projects.
2. Opt into reef giving: Add the $2 per-night donation to the TCI Reef Fund to protect the underwater world you’ll explore.
3. Use what’s provided: Bring the reusable shopping bags from your suite for beach snacks and island errands.
4. Choose low-impact fun: Favor complimentary kayaks and paddleboards, snorkeling, and biking for memorable, nature-forward experiences.
5. Conserve as you go: Follow in-room prompts to reduce water and energy use—small actions add up across a resort.
6. Involve the kids: Try the self-guided Seafari activities to nurture eco-curiosity in younger travelers.
7. Plan with purpose: Browse About the Island, Giving Back, and Watersports & Excursions to build an itinerary that aligns with your sustainability goals.

Dive deeper: Eco-friendly adventures from Grace Bay

If you’re drawn to the underwater world, Ocean Club Resorts can connect you with trusted local partners. Divers and once-a-year adventurers alike can explore the region’s abundant marine life on scheduled trips, including daily morning two-tank boat dives, afternoon single-tank options to Grace Bay, and full-day excursions. Not diving yet? A supervised Resort Course lets you experience the magic safely and confidently.

Pro tip: Combine a morning on the reef with an afternoon paddle through the mangroves for a full picture of Turks & Caicos’ delicate marine ecosystems.

Conclusion: Travel that gives back—today and tomorrow

Ocean Club Resorts’ Green Globe Certification reflects a long-standing commitment to responsible, guest-centered hospitality on Grace Bay Beach. From LED lighting and reusable bags to carbon offsets and reef donations, the resorts make it simple to enjoy paradise while protecting it.

Ready to plan your eco-conscious escape? Book your stay at Ocean Club or Ocean Club West, explore the Giving Back resources, and ask our team to arrange eco-tours, snorkeling, or paddling. Your next great vacation can help keep Turks & Caicos pristine for years to come.