Green tourism awards play an important role in the world of responsible travel, offering public relations opportunities and sometimes financial rewards for recipients, as well as a means of selecting responsible operators for travelers. The following well-known green tourism awards offer a wealth of environmentally and culturally responsible options for the traveler.

Tourism for Tomorrow

The Tourism for Tomorrow award is given yearly to four different travel providers and/or destinations by the World Travel & Tourism Council. According to promotional materials, the purpose of the award is to “recognize and promote the world’s leading examples of best practice in responsible tourism development across four categories: Destination Award, Conservation Award, Investor in People Award and Global Tourism Business Award.”

Responsible Tourism Awards

Responsible Tourism Awards are a joint venture between ResponsibleTravel.com, First Choice, The Times, and World Travel Market & Geographical magazine, and are supported by Conservation International. Awards are given in 13 different categories, and cover the full gamut – from best marine and mountain environments to accommodations to programs that reduce poverty and protect endangered species.

Conde Nast Traveler Green List

Responding to a survey of its readers in which over 75 percent of respondents “deemed it important for hotels near impoverished areas to help local people obtain education, clean water, food and healthcare,” Conde Nast created its annual Green List. Now in its twelfth year, the publication awards hotels, destinations and outfitters covering every continent. Candidates submit applications and a panel of judges scores candidates based on environmental initiatives, contributions to local communities and guest experience.

Skal International Ecotourism Award

Skal is the largest organization of travel and tourism professionals in the world. Applications are evaluated by a small panel of judges and criteria such as contribution to the conservation of nature and cultural heritage, community involvement, educational features, business viability and innovation are considered. Skal awards organizations, destinations and individuals in six different categories.

For a list of other travel awards, visit: www.planeta.com/ecotravel/tour/awardslinks.html.