By Belize Live News Staff: In a remarkable achievement for the country, Belize shone brightly at the inaugural World Sustainable Travel and Hospitality Awards held on World Tourism Day, September 27th, 2024. The event, which took place at Oakridge Venues in Spanish Lookout, brought together global leaders in sustainable travel and tourism to recognize and celebrate outstanding initiatives in the industry.
Belize’s commitment to sustainable tourism was acknowledged with the prestigious “Leading Sustainable Destination” award, highlighting the country’s innovative Blue Bond program. The Blue Bond, a pioneering financial model that combines debt restructuring with long-term marine conservation funding, has been lauded as a critical step towards building climate resilience and achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Further demonstrating its dedication to sustainable practices, Belize also swept the local categories:
- Che’il Mayan Chocolate was awarded the “Leading Sustainable Cultural Heritage Project”
- Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association won the “Leading Sustainable Marine Conservation Initiative”
- Belize Tourism Industry Association received the “Leading Sustainable Community Engagement Programme” award
These accolades underscore the collaborative efforts between Belize’s government, private sector, and local communities to ensure that tourism development is environmentally responsible and benefits both the people and the planet.
Tourism Minister Anthony Mahler expressed his pride in Belize’s achievements, stating, “These wins reflect our nation’s deep commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism. Belize is setting a global example of how tourism and conservation can work hand in hand for the benefit of our people and the planet.”
The success at the World Sustainable Travel and Hospitality Awards serves as a testament to Belize’s progress in building a sustainable tourism industry. As the country continues to welcome visitors, it remains dedicated to protecting its natural resources and cultural heritage for generations to come.
