Sustainable Tourism "ARISTA" prize nominations

Release Date: Wed. July 20, 2011

Contact: Robert Billington

Blackstone Valley Tourism Council

401-724-2200 / 800-454-2882

The Sustainable Tourism Planning and Development Laboratory is accepting applications for the 2011 ARISTA, granted for notable achievement in Sustainable Tourism.

This recognition comes with a $250 cash prize in each of three geographic areas: Rhode Island, New England and USA. Non-governmental organizations, individuals or businesses whose tourism development projects or programs meet the criteria for Sustainable Tourism are eligible.

According to Dr. Robert Billington, Executive Director of the Sustainable Tourism Laboratory, "The ARISTA is presented to organizations that regard as vital the protection and appropriate economic uses of the natural and human environment."

The purpose of this prize is "to encourage the use of sustainable principles in tourism development," says Billington. “It is a reminder that sustainable tourism is, first and foremost, about benefiting residents and resources within the applicant’s sphere of operation."

The Sustainable Tourism Planning and Development Laboratory, established in 2005, is certified in Tourism Governance under the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO.org) as a program of the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council (BVTC). The BVTC, established in 1985, is recognized worldwide in Destination Development by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC.org).

The mission of the Sustainable Tourism Lab is to help any community intent on doing so, to develop tourism in a sustainable way. Using the principles of Civic Tourism, Geotourism and Sustainable Tourism, the Lab works to share its knowledge and expertise with other tourism communities.

“We have some great agencies doing great work across America,” says Billington. “It's time we shed some light on their work. The ARISTA began as an acknowledgement for Sustainable Tourism in Rhode Island and has been extended to include projects from New England elsewhere in the US.

To nominate or apply for the ARISTA: visit www.sustainabletourismlab.com

Or contact Blackstone Valley Visitor Center, 175 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860

Application deadline: September 7, 2011.