Grupo PUNTACANA has won the 2009 Destination Stewardship Award ‘Tourism For Tomorrow’ Award . Now in its 5th year, the award goes to a destination which shows dedication to and success in maintaining a programme of sustainable tourism management at the destination level, incorporating social, cultural, environmental and economic aspects as well as multi-stakeholder engagement.
According to Jean-Claude Baumgarten, President and CEO of WTTC, Grupo PUNTACANA successfully demonstrates sustainable tourism practices on a daily basis. "We are delighted to present the 2009 Destination Stewardship Award to the Grupo PUNTACANA as a tourism enterprise that has over the years developed exceptional programs in sustainable development. These programs have not only helped the local community by providing jobs but also educational and health resources unmatched by other destinations. Sustainability has been in the Grupo PUNTACANA's DNA since its inception, setting the bar high for other companies conducting business in the region."
"We are honored to receive the 2009 Tourism for Tomorrow Destination Stewardship Award. Grupo PUNTACANA strives to be an example of successful regional environmental and social responsibility development for the world's tourism industry," said Frank Rainieri, Founder and CEO of Grupo PUNTACANA. He added, "Our commitment to the Punta Cana region has always been defined by a deep and humble respect for its breathtaking natural treasures and warm, friendly people."
Grupo PUNTACANA is a pioneer in sustainable tourism management with nearly three decades of innovative work in the Dominican Republic. Its vision is to create a community that respects the natural habitat of Punta Cana and supports the local people in bettering their lives. They own and operate Puntacana Resort & Club, Punta Cana International Airport, Puntacana Ecological Foundation and Puntacana Community Foundation, among other destination attractions, real estate developments, and infrastructure.
The company developed much of the infrastructure in this region, including the Punta Cana International Airport, built using local materials and reflecting local culture. It runs two local schools, a public polytechnic institute and provides free medical facilities to the people of the area. Grupo PUNTACANA employs over 1,700 people, 99% of who are local and believes that the Punta Cana community should be a sustainable place to live, to work, and to visit.
In creating the Puntacana Ecological Foundation, they expanded their vision to include protecting and restoring the natural resources in the Punta Cana region and contributing to the sustainable development of the Dominican Republic. The foundation has created a 1,500-acre private nature reserve, contributes to coral reef conservation and supports sustainable development initiatives. Grupo PUNTACANA's destination stewardship programme models long-term commitment to the area, collaboration between the public and private sector, and integrated concern for the natural habitat, for the local people, and for the visitor experience.
