The Turks and Caicos are giving the Caribbean region its first "green island" in the near future as part of the government's sustainable tourism program, according to tourism official Michael Misick.

The 2.5 mile island of Salt Cay, once the center of the Bermudan salt industry and the mainstay of the Turks and Caicos economy, has been chosen to be transformed into the "green island," Mr Misick said.

"Any new development will be consistent with that philosophy (of sustainable development)," he told journalists.

He made his comments at a news conference held to launch a public awareness campaign for the 10th Annual Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development (STC-10) to be held here from April 28- May 1.

The conference, which will be held at Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort & Spa (by Sandals), a Green Globe Certified hotel, is designed to provide attendees with information on the development and implementation of tourism practices in a responsible manner.

The 40 islands of the Turks & Caicos, of which eight are inhabited, are renowned for their award-winning beaches, diving and array of world-class resorts. Additional activities include tennis, golf and horseback riding. The islands feature a variety of spa and body treatment services and are home to the world's only conch farm.

Report by David Wilkening