BELIZE CITY — Belize has been nominated as the World’s Leading Sustainable Destination 2024 for the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA).

The first annual WSTHA takes place on Sept. 27 at Cahal Pech archaeological site in Belize.

In addition to the destination’s nomination, Belize Tourism Board partners, including Belizing, Che’il Mayan Chocolate, EcoMuseum Belize, San Antonio’s Women Cooperative, Jardin Pachamama, AllinBlusive Ltd, Turneffe Atoll, Cleanwater Marine Aquarium, Belize Barrier Reef Watch, Belize Tourism Industry Association, Chan Chich Lodge, and Sea of Life have also been shortlisted for several categories.

Among Belize’s efforts in sustainability, the destination is making history by being one of the first government entities to manage funds from the Green Climate Fund, receiving over BZD$3.135M for climate resilience projects.

The destination is also proud of its Belize Blue Bonds, an initiative aimed at financing marine conservation and prioritizing sustainable development, which protects 20.3% of its ocean space and starts the Marine Spatial Planning process.

Belize also empowers organizations like the Belize Audubon Society and Sea of Life, crucial for community engagement and environmental sustainability. Meanwhile the Lionfish Derby in San Pedro Town highlights community-driven conservation efforts against invasive species.

The WSTHA will feature some 21 award categories, recognizing excellence in various aspects of sustainability within the travel and hospitality sector. Partnering with the World Travel Awards, Belize is aiming to create a network of industry leaders to guide the awards program and uphold high standards of sustainability.

For more information see https://wstha.com/.