Recognizing its trailblazing efforts in sustainable tourism, the Belize Tourism Board is proud to announce that Belize will be the official host of the First Annual World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA), scheduled to take place at the Cahal Pech Archaeological Site on September 27, 2024. This prestigious event marks a significant milestone in Belize’s commitment to promoting responsible tourism and sustainable practices within the travel and hospitality industry.
“It is our great honour to host the first Annual World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, giving this important awards ceremony the backdrop of unspoiled and proudly protected topography, and simultaneously showcasing our commitment to preserving and protecting the natural beauty and resources that make Belize so unique,” Hon. Anthony Mahler, the Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, said. “We have long recognized this responsibility and are excited to bring together like-minded organizations and individuals to celebrate this momentous event.”
The WSTHA will feature over 21 new award categories, recognizing excellence in various aspects of sustainability within the travel and hospitality sector. In partnership with the World Travel Awards, Belize is working diligently to develop a robust network of industry leaders to guide the awards program and ensure adherence to the highest standards of sustainability.
Among the award categories, three are exclusive to Belize, furthering Belize’s position as a pioneer of eco-tourism. These categories include the (1) Leading Sustainable Community Engagement Programme, which acknowledges initiatives that excel in fostering inclusive participation, empowering communities, and promoting sustainable development practices; (2) Leading Sustainable Cultural Heritage Project, which celebrates initiatives that safeguard and promote cultural heritage through sustainable conservation practices; and (3) Leading Sustainable Marine Conservation Initiative, which recognizes outstanding efforts dedicated to preserving and restoring marine ecosystems.
The call for nominations is currently open until May 24, 2024, inviting eligible stakeholders and businesses in Belize and around the world to showcase their contributions to sustainability and vie for recognition in these prestigious categories. Nominations are revealed on June 14, 2024 and voting closes on August 2, 2024. For more information about the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards and to submit nominations, please visit https://wstha.com/enter before the deadline.
