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A Mexican biosphere reserve, a Kenyan ranch and a Canadian historic hotel chain have all won awards at an awards ceremony to honour tourism schemes that promote sustainability and ecotourism.

The World Travel & Tourism Council 's Tourism for Tomorrow awards held in Washington DC exist to recognise and promote best practices in tourism development all over the world.

The destination award went to Sierra Gorda in Mexico.

The Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve is the most eco-diverse reserve in the country and has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.

Visitors to the reserve can enjoy the biosphere while ensuring the conservation of biodiversity and contributing to the livelihoods of the communities who operate the project's tourism lodges.

The Kenyan Campi ya Kanzi (or 'Hidden Treasure' in Swahili) won the award for conservation, as the lodge is owned by local Maasai herdsmen, who try to allow wild animal to roam free.

Visitors stay in tents and are led on safaris by locals. Tourists are also charged conservation fees that are reinvested in community education and healthcare projects.

The Canadian hotel chain Fairmont Hotels & Resorts won the Global Tourism Business Award for its work improving standards of waste management, energy and water conservation and protecting cultural heritage, while Costa Rica's Hotel Punta Islita won the Investor in People Award for its work protecting rainforests through education and economic development programmes.



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