THE Global Sustainable Travel and Hospitality Awards recently highlighted the industry's key sustainability initiatives, showcasing the efforts of global leaders in net positive tourism.
Held on September 27 in Belize to coincide with World Tourism Day, the event brought together industry experts and pioneers committed to sustainable practices in the travel and hospitality sectors.
The ceremony revealed 21 winners, each representing various segments of sustainable tourism, from community projects to international hotel brands. Green Initiative, known for its restoration projects in Costa Rica, Peru and Brazil, has been named “First sustainable organization in the world', while the luxury resort operator Soneva received recognition for 'The world's leading sustainable energy efficiency initiative» for its innovative environmental strategies in the Maldives.
In a nod to community engagement, ibis RockCorps received the title of 'The world's first sustainable partnership» for his volunteer projects in France.
Rainforest Expeditions has distinguished itself for its conservation efforts in the Peruvian Amazon, earning the title of “First Global Sustainable Conservation and Biodiversity Program” for the discovery of 30 new species.
Mandarin Oriental made a strong performance by winning three awards: “World's First Sustainable Development”, “World's First Sustainable Employer” and “World's First Sustainable Supply Chain Program”.
Individual rewards included Agnes PierceGlobal Head of Sustainability at Amadeus, which has been named a “Global Sustainability Leader,” and Andy DeSilvaCEO of Hotel Emporium, celebrated as the “global sustainability leader of tomorrow”.
Belize himself was recognized as the “First sustainable destination in the world', a testimony to its continued efforts in responsible tourism and environmental preservation. Local initiatives like Che'il Maya Chocolate and the Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association were also honored for their contributions to cultural heritage and marine conservation.
Justin CookeExecutive Vice President of the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, said: “We are incredibly proud to celebrate and recognize the winners of the inaugural World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards. Their stories of innovation and positive impact are a strong indicator of the momentum driving the travel industry towards a more sustainable future.
Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations of Belize, Antoine Mahleradded: “We are incredibly proud of Belize’s achievements at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards. These victories reflect our country's deep commitment to sustainable development and responsible tourism.
The awards ceremony marked the launch of a new World Travel Awards trophy, uniquely created using 3D printing technology and recycled ocean plastic, powered by renewable solar energy. This initiative symbolizes the event's mission to promote sustainability through innovation.
The awards program is a collaboration with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and serves as a sister event to the World Travel Awardswho celebrates his 31st birthday today.
Winners of the first annual World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards
First sustainable organization in the world: Green Initiative
The world's first sustainable supply chain program: Mandarin Oriental
The world's leading initiative for sustainable energy efficiency: Soneva
The leading global initiative for sustainable health and well-being: Emaar's hospitality
First global partnership for a sustainable circular economy: One tree at a time X Six Senses Courchevel
World leader in sustainable innovation in water and waste: Six Senses Zighy Bay
The leading global sustainable finance initiative: Soneva & Soneva Foundation
World-leading sustainable technology: Choice Hotels and CarbinX
First sustainable partnership in the world: ibis RockCorps
The world's leading program for sustainable conservation and biodiversity: Rainforest Expeditions
First sustainable development in the world: Mandarin Oriental
First sustainable destination in the world: Belize
The leading global initiative for sustainable women's empowerment: Trekking and trips of the SASANE Brotherhood
First sustainable employer in the world: Mandarin Oriental
First global initiative for sustainable accessibility and inclusion: Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel in Athens
World leader in sustainable development: Agnes Pierce
The world leader in sustainable development of tomorrow: Andy DeSilva
The world's first sustainable education and training program: Voyage4Impact
Leading project on sustainable cultural heritage: Che'il Maya Chocolate
Cutting-edge initiative for sustainable marine conservation: Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association
Sustainable Community Engagement Program: Belize Tourism Industry Association
