Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Since its inception at the United Nations World Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, EarthCheck has represented the best in environmental sustainability. By 1998, EarthCheck membership included more than 500 businesses and organizations in 100 countries. In 1999, EarthCheck became an independent, autonomous organization in the World Travel & Tourism Council, one of the founding partners.

The accreditation program was launched in 2002, and now, one of the most visited coastal destinations in Mexico, Riviera Nayarit will work with EarthCheck to embrace sustainable development throughout the destination.

From recycling to conserving, working to minimize the environmental and social impacts associated with tourism operations is a commitment made by all EarthCheck members. These include, freshwater & energy conservation; recycling and reuse programs; reducing or eliminating the use of hazardous substances; reduction of greenhouse gas emissions; preservation of land and fragile ecosystems; focused community development and cultural relations; and the employment of qualified local personnel.

Riviera Nayarit will benchmark its environmental and social performance against the scientific EarthCheck Community Standard. Performance indicators include biodiversity conservation, contributions towards social and community actions and supporting local businesses and suppliers.

According to Riviera Nayarit Conventions and Visitor Bureau Director, Marc Murphy, the community will be taking on a holistic approach to sustainability and destination management to conserve the region's delicate ecosystem and support responsible tourism development.

"Riviera Nayarit's breathtaking environment is a major draw. It attracts travelers who are looking for unique environmental experiences," said Murphy. "We want to create a greater awareness of the natural experiences available in Riviera Nayarit... In doing so, we also want to ensure that our tourism activities don't harm the local environment or community, which is why we joined EarthCheck's sustainable leaders program."

EarthCheck CEO, Stewart Moore, said that he is delighted that the Riviera Nayarit has joined the EarthCheck program. "In doing so, they have demonstrated their commitment to responsible tourism practices. By committing to sustainability, the Riviera Nayarit not only joins a group of communities who are leading the way in environmental management, but they will be able to better manage the resources available to their community and visitors," he stated.