This policy was developed to guide tourism development in the country. The objectives of this policy include, inter alia, to enhance, protect and preserve the natural and social environment. Under its section on Environmental Protection, the government is required to collaborate with the appropriate organisations to address improper industrial practices and ensure policing of coastal waters at reefs and beaches to prevent improper practices such as sand mining, reef walking, improper waste disposal, and the pollution of rivers and swamp habitats by unfriendly agricultural and manufacturing entities.
The policy further notes that in an effort to alleviate the stress on the environment, certain areas in the island of Tobago will be restricted and a valid permit needed to access others. The designated restricted areas include:
- Little Tobago (permit required)
- Waterfalls around the island
- Rainforests
- All dive sites surrounding Tobago