Belize Shines at World Sustainable Travel Awards for Eco-Friendly Tourism

The World Sustainable Travel and Hospitality Awards took place in Belize on Saturday night. It celebrated top global sustainability efforts in tourism and honoured leaders dedicated to net-positive practices.

The event coincided with World Tourism Day.

21 winners across various segments of sustainable travel, from community projects to international hotel brands, were recognised.

Green Initiative, known for its restoration efforts in Costa Rica, Peru, and Brazil, was named ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Organisation,’ while Soneva won ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Energy Efficiency Initiative’ for its environmental work in the Maldives.

Mandarin Oriental secured three awards, including ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Development,’ ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Employer,’ and ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Supply Chain Programme.’ Other notable winners included Rainforest Expeditions, which earned ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Conservation & Biodiversity Programme’ for discovering 30 new species in the Peruvian Amazon, and ibis RockCorps, recognised for ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Partnership’ due to its volunteer-driven initiatives in France.

In individual awards, Agnes Pierce, Global Head of Sustainability at Amadeus, was named ‘World’s Leading Sustainability Leader,’ and Andy De Silva, CEO of Hotel Emporium, received the ‘World’s Leading Sustainability Leader of Tomorrow’ title.

Belize was honoured as the ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Destination,’ reflecting its commitment to responsible tourism. Local initiatives like Che’il Mayan Chocolate and the Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association were recognised for their contributions to cultural heritage and marine conservation.

Justin Cooke, Executive Vice-President of the awards, noted: “The winners exemplify the innovation and positive impact driving the travel industry towards a sustainable future.”

Belize’s Minister of Tourism & Diaspora Relations, Anthony Mahler, echoed this sentiment, saying the awards reflect Belize’s dedication to sustainability.

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