As the global focus on environmental sustainability continues to grow, the U.S. Virgin Islands has emerged as a hub for eco-friendly businesses. This shift reflects both local entrepreneurs’ commitment to preserving the islands’ natural beauty and the increasing demand from consumers for sustainable practices. From renewable energy solutions to sustainable tourism, the USVI is experiencing a green revolution that is reshaping its economy.

Sustainable Tourism: Leading the Way

Tourism is the backbone of the USVI economy, and the industry is undergoing a significant transformation. Many businesses are adopting eco-friendly practices to meet the growing demand for sustainable travel options. Hotels and resorts across the islands are implementing energy-efficient systems, reducing plastic waste, and sourcing local, organic produce for their restaurants.

For instance, some accommodations have integrated solar panels and water conservation systems, significantly reducing their environmental footprint. Additionally, eco-tours are becoming increasingly popular, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the islands’ pristine ecosystems while learning about conservation efforts. Kayak tours through mangrove forests and guided hikes through national parks are just a few examples of how tourism is being redefined in an eco-friendly context.

Renewable Energy: Powering the Future

Renewable energy is another sector where the USVI is making strides. With abundant sunshine and consistent trade winds, the islands are ideal for harnessing solar and wind energy. Several businesses and government initiatives are investing in renewable energy infrastructure to reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels.

One notable example is the push for solar energy installations across both residential and commercial properties. Solar farms are being developed to supply clean energy to the local grid, and many businesses are installing solar panels to power their operations. This shift not only reduces carbon emissions but also helps businesses save on energy costs, making them more competitive and sustainable.

Local Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Local entrepreneurs are at the forefront of the eco-friendly movement in the USVI. From organic farming to sustainable fashion, small businesses are driving innovation in various industries. These entrepreneurs are not only providing environmentally friendly products and services but also educating the community about the importance of sustainability.

For example, local farmers are embracing organic and regenerative farming practices, producing fresh, chemical-free produce for the local market. This approach not only benefits the environment by preserving soil health and reducing chemical runoff but also supports the local economy by reducing reliance on imported goods.

In the fashion industry, businesses are focusing on sustainable materials and ethical production processes. By sourcing materials locally and minimizing waste, these companies are setting new standards for the industry in the Caribbean.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the rise of eco-friendly businesses in the USVI is promising, it is not without challenges. The high initial costs of renewable energy installations and sustainable infrastructure can be a barrier for some businesses. Additionally, the small size of the local market can limit the scalability of these initiatives.

However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Partnerships between the private sector, government, and non-profits can help overcome these barriers by providing financial incentives, technical support, and public awareness campaigns. As global interest in sustainability grows, the USVI has the potential to attract eco-conscious tourists and investors, further fueling its green economy.

The Future of Eco-Friendly Businesses in the USVI

The future looks bright for eco-friendly businesses in the USVI. As more companies adopt sustainable practices, the islands are poised to become a model for green business in the Caribbean. The combination of natural resources, entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to preserving the environment creates a unique opportunity for the USVI to lead the way in sustainable development.

For businesses in the USVI, going green is not just a trend but a necessary evolution to meet the demands of a changing world. As the global emphasis on sustainability continues to grow, the USVI’s eco-friendly businesses will likely thrive, contributing to the islands’ long-term economic and environmental resilience.

In conclusion, the rise of eco-friendly businesses in the USVI is a testament to the region’s dedication to sustainability and innovation. As these businesses continue to grow and evolve, they will play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future for the islands, ensuring that the USVI remains a beautiful and thriving destination for generations to come.

The Vivot Group of Companies, a prominent full-service commercial construction firm in the U.S. Virgin Islands, has filed for bankruptcy, according to court documents obtained by the Consortium.

Jean Patrick Vivot, president of the conglomerate, is requesting joint administration for the bankruptcies filed individually by each of the ten companies in the group. These companies include Vivot Equipment Corporation, Eleven Construction, PSI Tire Supply, Axis Development, TTA Logistics, Valdez Industrial Group, Caribbean Crane & Rigging, Vivot Industries Virgin Islands, Abacus International, and Vivot Equipment. The group collectively owns approximately $64 million worth of equipment, tools, and vehicles, alongside an additional $19 million in real property. However, they owe just over $56 million in secured debt, with the primary creditor being Touchmark National Bank of Georgia, to whom Vivot reportedly owes $31 million. The group also has a reported $13.5 million in unpaid taxes.

Mr. Vivot attributed the financial distress to the 2021 bankruptcy of Limetree Bay Services, which left the Vivot Group with $14.5 million in unpaid receivables. “Limetree’s liquidating bankruptcy, and its subsequent failure to pay the Limetree Receivables in full, caused the Vivot Group to endure significant financial and operational strain,” Mr. Vivot stated in his declaration. He further explained that a consensual out-of-court debt restructuring was deemed unfeasible after discussions with secured lenders.

Compounding the financial woes, Touchmark National Bank filed a lawsuit in early April, seeking to appoint a receiver for the Vivot Group. The lawsuit alleges that Vivot failed to repay debts and improperly reallocated assets designated as loan collateral. Touchmark claims that some equipment used as collateral was leased to third parties without consent, violating loan agreements.

The lawsuit details nine loans taken by Vivot companies between 2016 and 2019, with other group companies guaranteeing the loans and pledging all assets as collateral. Touchmark’s lawsuit reveals that a November 2023 spreadsheet indicated some collateral assets had been moved from St. Croix to other locations, including Puerto Rico and the mainland U.S. This movement and unauthorized leasing of equipment allegedly jeopardize the collateral’s value and hinder the bank’s ability to locate and liquidate it. Additionally, the bank asserts that Vivot violated loan agreements by allowing tax liens on properties used as collateral.

Touchmark has filed 95 complaints against the Vivot Group and Mr. Vivot, seeking a court judgment, the appointment of a receiver, and potential liquidation of collateral if the debtors fail to repay their obligations.

The bankruptcy filing temporarily halts Touchmark’s recovery efforts. Under Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the Vivot Group aims to reorganize its business, repay creditors over time, and continue operations. As “debtors-in-possession,” the group has requested court permission to use available cash for operating expenses.

For now, the Vivot Group is not in immediate danger of ceasing operations, but industry stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation as one of St. Croix’s largest construction service providers navigates its financial challenges.

Residents of St. Croix now have a new option for final arrangements with the opening of Kingshill Funeral Home. Under the leadership of Nikki Brooks, the funeral home, located at 303 Clifton Hill in Kingshill, held an open house recently to introduce its services to the public.

Ms. Brooks, who returned to St. Croix to start this venture, shared her journey, highlighting the challenges she faced, such as a leaking roof and stained tiles. “Coming home was hard because I’m starting over at 52,” she said. Despite these hurdles, she credited determination and faith for her perseverance, stating, “I played that song, ‘The Goodness of God,’ because God didn’t put me in my space to do nothing.”

Kingshill Funeral Home offers a range of funeral packages starting at $2,300, designed to meet the diverse needs of the community. The funeral home aims to provide reliable and affordable services, accommodating individual preferences and financial considerations.

The facility operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with appointments available on Sundays and 24-hour phone availability for urgent needs.

Ms. Brooks emphasized the importance of personalization in their services. “I believe in celebrating the life of the loved one. That’s why when you walk around here, it’s a blank canvas. What do you desire for your loved one? We created it this way so that every human lived a life,” she explained. The funeral home prides itself on providing a seamless experience for families during the challenging process of arranging a funeral.

In addition to standard services, Kingshill Funeral Home offers bilingual services and materials. “Everything we have in English, we have in Spanish, even to the contract, so the community can read along [with] what everyone is saying,” Ms. Brooks said.

Ms. Brooks also highlighted the ecumenical nature of their offerings, catering to various denominations and spiritual needs. “Some people can have many denominations…some people are more spiritual,” she noted, ensuring that the funeral home can help mourners “create what they need for their loved one to celebrate them.”

Pre-planning funerals is another aspect Ms. Brooks emphasized, comparing it to planning birthdays or trips. She pointed out that pre-planning allows individuals to organize funerals to their preferences, alleviating financial strain and stress for surviving family members.

For more information or to arrange services, interested parties can contact Kingshill Funeral Home at (340) 773-3310 or via email at [email protected]. Ms. Brooks reiterated her belief that Kingshill Funeral Home will offer those struggling through one of life’s most difficult periods ease, comfort, and valuable assistance in making final arrangements for their departed loved ones.