The finalists for the 2008 'Tourism for Tomorrow Awards' have been announced by the World Travel & Tourism Council.

The 12 finalists showcase some of the world's leading examples in sustainable tourism development; from among a pool of 150 exceptional applications, from over 40 countries.

Destination Award

Blackstone Valley, USA:
Since 1985 the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council has been a force behind the rebirth of the Blackstone River Valley, Rhode Island USA.

Rinjani Trek Ecotourism Programme, Indonesia:
The Rinjani Trek Ecotourism Programme - located in Lombok, Indonesia - began in 1999; to strengthen conservation and to ensure that communities on the boundary of the National Park benefit from tourism revenues.

Town of Bouctouche, Canada:
Bouctouche was a typical, coastal Maritime village with a diminishing rural economy; until two tourism investments began its evolution to the vibrant community it is today.

Conservation Award

Ecotourism Australia:
Ecotourism Australia was formed in 1991 - as a not-for-profit organization, based in Brisbane - and has since then significantly contributed to long-term environmental sustainability; through its ground-breaking ECO Certification Program.

Grootbos Nature Reserve, South Africa:
Grootbos Nature Reserve, with its two 5-star lodges and luxury accommodation, is spectacularly situated on the fynbos and forest clad hills; overlooking the whale-watching haven of Walker Bay.

Turtle Conservation Project, Sri Lanka:
TCP was established in 1993, as a Sri Lankan non-governmental organisation.

Investor in People Award

Fair Trade in Tourism , South Africa:
Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) is a not-for-profit initiative that promotes equitable and sustainable tourism; through awareness raising, capacity building and the facilitation of the world's first tourism 'Fair Trade' certification scheme.

RARE / La Ruta Moskitia, Honduras:
Within the largest remaining tract of rainforest in Central America lies a remote region of Honduras known as 'La Moskitia', or the Mosquito Coast. For centuries, the expansive forest, wetlands, and rich indigenous groups of La Moskitia have intrigued adventure-seekers and explorers.

Rainforest Expeditions - Posadas Amazonas, Peru:
The Ecotourism Project that led to 'Posada Amazonas', is an initiative to demonstrate that a tourism joint venture between business and a local community can not only be successful in empowering that local community and conserving natural resources but is also sound business practice.

Global Tourism Business Award

Scandic Hotels:
Scandic pionieering activity in reducing carbon emissions on all levels of business operations is paramount. A strong focus on health and accessibility to healthy, good living is the driving factor behind Scandi's efforts.

Serena Hotels and Lodges:
In line with Serena's corporate philosophy of building a basis for an all fascinating holiday experience comprising of intact nature, environment and local people, Serena has anchored environmental protection as an important element of its quality standards since 1990.

Six Senses resorts and Spas:
Resort and Spa Management and Development company established in 1995, which manages luxury resorts and spas in the Maldives, Oman, Thailand, Vietnam, Spain and Fiji.

Winners will be invited to the 8th Global Travel & Tourism Summit held in Dubai (20-22 April, 2008) to receive their awards.