Inaugural World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards Set to Showcase Global Innovations in Belize
Lux Travel DMC Secures Nominations for World’s Leading Sustainable Organization, Leading Sustainable Water & Waste Innovation, and Dr. Pham Ha Nominated as World’s Leading Sustainable Leader
Dr. Pham Ha, Founder and CEO of LuxGroup, expressed his pride regarding Lux Travel DMC’s nominations: “We are honored to be nominated in three categories this year, though we have not yet won. There is still more work to be done in our sustainability efforts. In my new role at the Vietnam Green Tourism Association, I am committed to driving greater sustainability and leading the way for sustainable travel and tourism in Vietnam and Asia. I am confident that with these ongoing efforts, we will achieve these prestigious awards next year.”
On Friday, 27 September 2024, Belize will host the first-ever World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, a landmark event recognizing global excellence in sustainability across the tourism and hospitality sectors. Launched at COP28 in Dubai as a sister program to the World Travel Awards, established in 1993, this new event celebrates innovative sustainability practices shaping the future of travel and hospitality worldwide.
The World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards will serve as a global platform to honor organizations, businesses, and individuals committed to sustainable operations. From eco-friendly resorts in pristine environments to community-driven tourism projects empowering local economies, the awards will highlight efforts in environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and social responsibility.
With participation from various regions, the event promises to showcase groundbreaking sustainability initiatives. These initiatives will inspire the global travel industry by offering insights into how sustainability can be embedded into every aspect of operations. Entries reflect practices such as carbon footprint reduction, biodiversity conservation, and responsible tourism, demonstrating a collective commitment to a greener future.
Key Themes and Categories
The awards will spotlight multiple key themes in sustainable travel and hospitality, including:
- Environmental Stewardship: Recognizing efforts to minimize environmental impacts, conserve resources, and promote biodiversity.
- Community Engagement: Highlighting initiatives that empower local communities and preserve cultural heritage.
- Innovation in Sustainability: Celebrating pioneering technologies and business models that drive sustainable tourism development.
- Education and Awareness: Acknowledging campaigns that raise awareness of sustainable practices within the industry.
The Role of Belize
As the host country, Belize offers a perfect backdrop for the event, known for its rich biodiversity and commitment to sustainable tourism. Belize’s work in marine conservation and community-based tourism showcases a model for sustainable destinations globally.
Looking Ahead
The World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards are not just about accolades; they represent a concerted effort towards a sustainable future for global tourism. By showcasing innovations and fostering collaboration, the awards aim to set new standards and inspire ongoing improvements in sustainability practices.
Integral to the awards is the WSTHA Advisory Board, composed of sustainability experts and authorities, guiding the program’s standards and criteria. The event will be a milestone in sustainable tourism, encouraging continuous improvement and inspiring future generations.
As Belize hosts this inaugural event, it highlights the transformative power of sustainable travel in building a better future for the global community, underscoring the importance of responsible tourism for generations to come.