Belize sponsors Responsible Tourism Awards

Posted: Wednesday, May 4, 2016. 6:34 p.m. CST

By Aaron Humes: The Belize Tourism Board is headline sponsor of the 2016 World Responsible Tourism Awards.

The BTB highlighted the importance of a joined up approach to sustainability to ensure that the local economy is stimulated and benefits from tourism, and natural resources are protected.

Nominees for the awards are organisations which have been recognised for their leadership and for the replicability worldwide of their projects and initiatives.

Belize has won two awards previously; in 2011 community organisation ‘Peninsula Citizens for Sustainable Development’ was awarded ‘Best in a Marine Environment’ for its campaign for locally owned tourism development in the face of planned cruise tourism in the Placencia Peninsula of Belize, while in 2013, local tour operator and marine conservation organisation Reef CI were highly commended in the ‘Best for Responsible Wildlife Experiences” category, in recognition of their successful and innovative tourism project to combat the ecological destruction of Belize’s barrier reef by reducing numbers of invasive lionfish species.

The Board’s Karen Pike explains: “Responsible tourism is more than just a few gestures here and there, it’s about a way of life, and it’s something that is ingrained in Belize’s mentality; our tourism development strategy goes hand in hand with sustainability; and if we believe all destinations should consider this approach. Along with protecting the wildlife and natural resources, a key element of this strategy is ensuring that tourism truly benefits the local people and keeping Belize chain-free has greatly contributed to this, encouraging local enterprise and businesses to cater for tourists.”

CEO of Awards organisers Responsible Travel, Justin Francis says “By sponsoring the World Responsible Tourism Awards this year, the Belize Tourism Board are sending a clear signal that they are fully committed to driving the development of responsible tourism both in Belize and in the wider world. We are delighted to be working with them”.

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