Shortlist of Finalists for 2009 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has confirmed the 12 finalists for the 2009 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards. Under WTTC's stewardship since 2003, the awards recognise best practices in sustainable tourism in four different categories - Destination Stewardship, Conservation, Community Benefit and Global Tourism Business. A record number of entries were received this year from over 40 countries and six continents.

The 12 finalists were selected by an international team of independent judges in each of the four award categories for having successfully demonstrated sustainable tourism practices, including the protection of natural and cultural heritage, social and economic benefits to local people, and environmentally-friendly operations.

The 2009 Finalists are:

Destination Stewardship Award

- Grupo PUNTACANA, Dominica Republic
- Heritage Watch, Cambodia
- South West Tourism, UK

Conservation Award

- Ionian Eco Villagers, Greece
- Lane Cove River Tourist Park, Australia
- NatureAir, Costa Rica

Community Benefit Award

- Community Action Treks, Nepal
- Ol Donyo Wuas, Kenya
- Zakoura Foundation for Micro Credits, Morocco

Global Tourism Business Award

- GAP Adventures, Canada & Global
- Marriott International Inc, USA & Global
- Metropolitan Touring, Ecuador

Costas Christ, Chairman of Judges said, "We have reached a global tipping point in the travel industry, as more businesses and countries realise that sustainable tourism is not only about protecting the environment and safeguarding cultural diversity, but that it is also an important economic opportunity. The Tourism for Tomorrow Awards judging process goes beyond just what a company says it is doing in sustainable tourism. Our next phase of judging involves an on-site expert evaluation of each finalist to assess what they are doing in practice, leading up to the selection of one winner in each category."

"The outstanding quality of this year's entries reflects the growing interest in the Tourism for Tomorrow Awards," said WTTC President and CEO Jean-Claude Baumgarten. "They demonstrate the Travel & Tourism industry's long-term commitment to responsible tourism management, protecting the natural, social and cultural environment."

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