NEW YORK, Wed. Nov. 28, 2007
Black Orchid Resort (Belize) announced today that it has joined the World Heritage Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (WHA) as a Member. The WHA is an industry-leading initiative; it was founded by Expedia, Inc. and the United Nations Foundation, to support UNESCO’s goal of promoting and protecting the 851 World Heritage sites around the world.
“Partnering with the World Heritage Alliance has opened the resource floodgates for the Black Orchid resort to not only educate visitors to Belize about sustainably protecting its environmental legacies, but has placed us in a better position to network with hotels, and conservation agencies who implement better management practices” said Armeid Thompson, Director Sustainable Management
“We’re pleased to have Black Orchid Resort joining the partnership,” said Erika Harms, executive director of the World Heritage Alliance. “Together we have the power to reach millions of people around the world and help both preserve and protect some of the world’s most beautiful and significant sites.”
By the end of 2007, there will be 52 members and partners of the World Heritage Alliance for Sustainable Tourism – up from 17 in 2006 including, Expedia Inc. and the UN Foundation. These members and partners will be working in 7 countries to aid in the conservation of at least 20 UNESCO World Heritage sites.
All WHA members were recognized this week at a series of events in New York, including a dinner and symposium discussing important issues related to World Heritage and sustainable tourism.
-press release-