ReefCI receive Global recognition at the WTM World Responsible Tourism Awards
November 7, 2013
Highly commended for Best for Responsible Wildlife Experiences goes to Marine conservation organization ReefCI at the 2013 10th annual World responsible tourism awards.
The awards panel of judges pre-announced:
‘We are focusing on organizations that are both committed to wildlife protection and to providing their guest with memorable experiences tourists will talk about and share with friends and family when back home.
We are looking for organizations that have found the right balance between protecting wildlife and providing great experiences to holidaymakers. Their ideas and practices should be an inspiration to companies trying to achieve the same.’
The winners and highly commended were announced at the WTM exhibition to an audience of tourism ministers, destination managers, industry professionals and media.
The judges recognized the contribution, which ReefCI makes to conservation both through the quality of the guest experience and the data, which they collect on species and number. The quality of the data on contribution to the local economy through employment and local sourcing was also noteworthy. ReefCI is working with the department of Fisheries in Belize to help protect the marine life and sustain fish stock and fishing. The data they collect assists fisheries with their allocations of open and closed season regulations, which helps conserve commercial species such as conch and lobster.
Polly Alford, Founder of ReefCI said:
‘Being in the top 3 in the world and receiving a highly commended award at this event means so much to a small organization like ReefCI. Thanks to Responsible travel for organizing the event and to the team of expert judges for recognizing our contribution.
I am very grateful to our team in Belize, who work so hard and all of our guests over the years. It’s their shared passion for the oceans that has enabled ReefCI to continue to operate for 10 years and now receive this incredible recognition!’
Placencia, Belize
