The Regional Secretary for Energy, Environment and Tourism stated today that 19 new tourism accommodation establishments in the Azores were distinguished with the "Miosótis" award, "making up a total of 124 distinctions" awarded under this programme. Created in 2012, it distinguishes the accommodations "reconciling" environmental practices with the concern for "a balanced development of tourism."
 
Marta Guerreiro spoke on the first day of the Government's statutory visit to Corvo Island at the presentation of this year's first award that was delivered to the "Joe & Vera’s Vintage Place" tourist resort.
 
The Secretary for Tourism reinforced the importance of the award for raising awareness "not only among guests, but also among employees and business owners" in terms of "product selection, waste management, resource use and local consumption." This evidences a more active environmental awareness, thus contributing to "balanced development of tourism."
 
"In regard to balance, Corvo is an excellent example," the government official said, noting that "overnight stays increased 14% in 2018", being above the regional, national and international average; local accommodation provided a "very important" contribution for this growth.
 
"This year, overnight stays on Corvo grew more than 40% in January, which is also a sign that we are able to overcome the challenge of seasonality," Marta Guerreiro said, emphasising the need to "grow with quality."
 
"Myosotis maritima" is a plant species found in the archipelago of the Azores and holds a special endemic species status, having been chosen to represent the Sustainable Tourism Accommodation Award in the Azores.
 
The registration and renewal processes are free, and the award is valid for a two-year period.