The World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA) has unveiled the nominees and opened voting for its inaugural programme. The shortlist features a diverse range of individuals and organizations from around the world who are making significant contributions to net positive tourism.

WSTHA received hundreds of entries, which were evaluated by Sustainable Business students from Nova Business School. The shortlist was then reviewed and approved by the WSTHA Advisory Board. Selection criteria included quantitative and qualitative data, internationally-recognized standards, scalability, partnership and collaboration, relative impact, and compelling storytelling.

Voting is open until August 2, allowing industry professionals, media, and the general public to vote for the nominees they believe are making the most impactful contributions to sustainable travel. The nominee with the most votes in each category will be declared the winner.

The 21 WSTHA categories were selected by the Advisory Board to align with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and a net positive framework encompassing People, Planet, Place, Prosperity, and Partnerships. The full list of 2024 nominees can be viewed online.

The winners will be announced at the inaugural WSTHA Gala Ceremony in Belize, the Official Host Destination, on September 27.

Justin Cooke, Executive Vice-President of WSTHA, remarked, "We have been overwhelmed by the interest in the inaugural WSTHA programme. The calibre of entrants is exceptional, with many fascinating stories of how they are driving change in sustainable tourism. This serves as a healthy indicator of the momentum towards creating a net positive travel industry. I wish all our nominees the best of luck. And remember to cast your vote for your favourites."

Belize, the Official Host Destination, places a strong emphasis on responsible tourism and has developed projects that encourage sustainable engagement with its rainforests, reefs, and unique culture.

Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism & Diaspora Relations, Belize, stated, "We are incredibly excited to host the inaugural World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards here in Belize. The innovative level of nominees demonstrates a shared vision for a more sustainable future in travel. We look forward to welcoming all nominees and congratulating the winners while showcasing Belize's own sustainable tourism initiatives."

The WSTHA programme is run in partnership with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, whose members represent over 50,000 hotels, 7 million rooms globally, 270 brands, and 40+ supply chain and strategic partners.

Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, said, "At the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, we are thrilled to witness so many deserving and inspiring entries. I encourage everyone to vote and recognize these extraordinary efforts. Some of these remarkable nominees will have the honour of being named inaugural WSTHA winners. Good luck to all."

WSTHA is the sister event of the World Travel Awards, currently celebrating its 31st anniversary.