EU-SWITCH Asia wins an international award for sustainability

EU-SWITCH Asia Greening Sri Lanka Hotels Project was adjudged the winner in the category of Educational Programs & Media at the 11th Skal International “Sustainable Development in Tourism” Awards,

EU-SWITCH Asia Greening Sri Lanka Hotels Project was adjudged the winner in the category of Educational Programs & Media at the 11th Skal International “Sustainable Development in Tourism” Awards, presented during the opening ceremony of the 73rd Skzl World Congress on October 3, 2012 in Incheon, South Korea.

The award recognized the outstanding training, leadership, and commitment to sustainable tourism principles and practices delivered through project activities since its inception in April 2010.

The judging criteria were based on globally-recognized sustainable tourism standards, which reflected the core principles of sustainable tourism: environmentally-sensitive operations; support for the protection of cultural and natural heritage; and direct and tangible economic and social benefits to local people, educational features, and innovation. In addition, a successful business model and financial viability was also considered.

Skal, founded in 1934, is the largest organization of travel and tourism professionals in the world. To encourage the conservation of the environment and help to promote the development of responsible and sustainable tourism, Skal International initiated an awards program in 2002, during “The Year of Ecotourism and the Mountains” as declared by the United Nations.

A delighted Miththapala said he was proud of this achievement and praised his small but energetic team. “This is really a good team effort and a big recognition for Sri Lanka.”

PHOTO: SWITCH Asia Greening Hotels Project Director, Srilal Miththapala (center), receiving the award from the President of Skål International, Enrique Quesada (left), and Vice-President Karine Coulanges (right).

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Linda Hohnholz

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