Destination Stewardship Award

This award goes to a destination - country, region, state, or town - which comprises a network of tourism enterprises and organisations which show dedication to and success in maintaining a programme of sustainable tourism management at the destination level, incorporating social, cultural, environmental and economic aspects as well as multi-stakeholder engagement. Applicants may include governments, NGOs, businesses, or community organisations on behalf of the destination.

Finalists in this category must demonstrate sustainable tourism planning and policies that enhance the natural, historic and cultural assets unique to a destination.

This includes:

• maximum positive benefits and minimum negative impacts to the environment,
• tangible support for the protection of the destination's natural and cultural heritage,
• promotion of sense of place and authenticity,
• direct economic and social benefits to the host community,
• and educating visitors on the sustainable tourism efforts of the destination.

These goals and accomplishments are also communicated widely with media and other stakeholders, in order to promote best practice in the Travel & Tourism industry.