For the first time, a European tourism destination that contributes to sustainable tourism development will receive the accolade 'Royal Destination Award for Sustainable Tourism 2007'.

The Royal Destination Award for Sustainable Tourism aims to recognise and reward European tourism destinations engaged in outstanding and innovative sustainable practices, stimulating the adoption and development of these practices within tourist destinations.

It is also the aim to engage the private sector in sustainable development as a means of delivering quality business. Applications are invited from local destinations which may be cities, towns, resorts or rural areas, or a grouping of these. A destination may be a designated area, such as a national park, will be unified by a clearly identifiable brand, and will involve various local stakeholders.

The deadline for applications is 15th February 2007. Three nominees will be chosen and invited to a high-profile conference: 'Sustainable Tourism - the Agenda for Destinations' and award ceremony, where the winner will be announced. It is estimated that the event will attract more than 200 international delegates, who are offered to exhibit promotional material in Fairmont St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland on 13th April 2007.

For more information:

• Royal Destination Award
• contact Marta Reeves-Marr at Fife Coast and Countryside Trust on 01592 656080 or by email at marta.reevesmarr@fife.gov.uk
• List of sustainable tourism awards