The U.S. Virgin Islands are often described as America’s Paradise—turquoise water, coral reefs teeming with marine life, lush hillsides, and a relaxed island vibe that makes it a favorite destination. But what visitors sometimes don’t see is how limited island resources are, and how small everyday choices can have a meaningful impact.
Sustainable travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands isn’t about restriction—it’s about awareness. Understanding the environment you’re stepping into can help you make simple decisions that will protect our beautiful island home.
Protecting the Ocean and Reef
One of the most important sustainability efforts in the territory is the ban on certain chemical sunscreens. The USVI Sunscreen Law prohibits sunscreens containing ingredients known to harm coral reefs, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene. Reef-safe sunscreen is widely available at local dive shops, pharmacies, and grocery stores, and choosing it is one of the easiest ways visitors can help protect fragile marine ecosystems.
Beyond sunscreen, reef etiquette matters, too. Avoid touching or standing on coral, never touch marine life, and be mindful when snorkeling or diving. Coral reefs are living ecosystems that take decades to grow, and even small disturbances can have long-term consequences.
Would you like to learn more about corals and why they are a vital part of our ecosystem? During your travel to the USVI, include a visit to one of the three Coral Innovation Hubs in the Caribbean—right here on St. Croix! The Nature Conservancy Coral Innovation Hub offers free tours on Tuesdays at 2pm and Thursdays at 10am. Learn more about Coral Conservation in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Understanding Island Resources: Electricity and Water
Unlike many mainland destinations, the islands operate with limited infrastructure and high resource costs.
You might expect a Caribbean destination with abundant sunshine to rely heavily on solar energy. However, most electricity in the USVI is still generated by burning imported fossil fuels. This carries both environmental costs—from transportation and production—and significantly higher energy prices than most stateside visitors are accustomed to. As a result, energy conservation is a part of everyday life for residents and businesses alike. Turning off lights and fans when leaving a room, as well as using air conditioning sparingly are small actions that help reduce strain on the system.
The USVI’s water supply comes from rainfall collected in cisterns and desalinated seawater—also an energy-intensive process. For this reason, water conservation is part of everyday life here, too. Simple habits like shorter showers and mindful laundry use go a long way. Even here at Centerline, we have systems in place to reduce our water consumption while keeping our fleet nice and clean.
These aren’t inconveniences—they’re part of how island life works. In fact, switching off the television and simply enjoying the view is an excellent way to feel the island vibe and reduce energy consumption!
Reducing Waste on a Small Island
Waste management is another area where thoughtful, sustainable travel can make a meaningful difference. In the USVI, waste is primarily handled through landfills, and both St. Croix and St. Thomas are currently facing capacity challenges. This makes reducing waste not just a good habit, but an important responsibility for both residents and visitors.
The territory has taken steps to address this, including bans on plastic shopping bags and plastic straws to help protect marine life and limit landfill use. Visitors can support these efforts by bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bags, and by avoiding single-use items whenever possible.
For those who want to go a step further, there are several local recycling initiatives worth supporting. Leatherback Brewing collects aluminum cans at its tasting room. Replastic Recycle accepts clean #1, #2, and #5 plastics (with labels and caps removed) and transforms them into creative, locally made products—some of which can be found at Centerline’s St. Croix Airport and Mid-Island rental car return locations. Island Green Living offers recycling programs on St. John, while Virgin Islands Conservation Society provides helpful recycling information and resources on St. Thomas.
And of course, it goes without saying: always clean up after yourself, especially at the beach. Keeping the islands clean is a shared responsibility—and one of the simplest ways to protect our small slice of paradise.
Supporting Local Food and Artisans
One of the most rewarding ways to travel sustainably to the USVI is to engage with the local economy. Farmers markets and roadside stands across the islands offer fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan products that reflect the culture and warm Caribbean climate. Even choosing a Leatherback beer means your beverage traveled a significantly shorter distance to reach your table.
Choosing locally caught seafood is another meaningful option. Not only does it reduce the environmental footprint associated with imported food, but it also supports local fishers who rely on the ocean as a primary livelihood. Wahoo, mahi mahi, tuna, snapper, conch, lobster, and other fish are seasonally available at many restaurants and roadside stands.
If choosing vegan, vegetarian, or occasional meatless meals is part of how you support the environment, you’re in good company in the USVI. Local cuisine naturally incorporates a variety of plant-based dishes, fresh produce, and flavorful staples that make it easy to enjoy a more sustainable way of eating. Be on the lookout for a veggie roti, pate, or doubles—you won’t be disappointed.
Buying from local artisans and enjoying local cuisine ensures that tourism dollars stay within the community, strengthening the economy and preserving cultural traditions.
A Sustainable Way to Experience Paradise
Sustainable travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about understanding and respecting a delicate, yet resilient ecosystem—and recognizing the role each of us plays in protecting it.
In a place as naturally beautiful as the USVI, sustainability isn’t an extra consideration—it’s what keeps these islands the paradise we know and love. By traveling thoughtfully today, we help ensure a future with clear waters, thriving reefs, and the strong island communities that make this place so special.
Learn more about our green initiatives at Centerline Car Rentals.