The award aims to encourage tourism businesses to minimise their impact on the environment, and promote energy and water savings and support the local economy by buying local products and reducing car use, among other actions.

This is the second year that conservation charity Friends of the Lake District have sponsored the Award, which is part of the Cumbria Tourism awards.

Cote How Organic Guest House at Rydal won the Sustainable Tourism award in 2008 for their commitment to promoting the environment among their guests as well as in the day to day operation of their business.

The Sustainable Tourism Award is open to businesses that are working to maximise their positive impact on the environment, local area and community as well as explaining this commitment to visitors.

Any business directly involved with tourism can enter including accommodation providers, visitor attractions, restaurants, cafes, retail outlets and tourism information providers.

Judith Moore, Policy Officer at Friends of the Lake District said: "We believe Cumbria could be at the forefront of sustainable tourism. We have a county full of beautiful places to see and enjoy, coupled with great local food and drink and some of the best walking and cycling, rail and bus journeys anywhere in Britain.
"We are really pleased to be working with Cumbria Tourism to find the best businesses who are not only giving their customers a fantastic experience and service, but also want to ensure that the environment is safeguarded at the same time."

Ian Stephens, Chief Executive at Cumbria Tourism said: "The Lake District and Cumbria is renowned throughout the world for its inspiring scenery and it is vital that we look after our unique landscape for current and future generations of visitors. There are many tourism businesses countywide that have sustainability at the core of their day to day operations and this award offers a fantastic opportunity for their efforts to be highlighted."

To enter for the award, businesses simply fill in an application form, available at www.cumbriatourism.org/awards or contact Pauline Crossley at Cumbria Tourism on 01539 825042.