Please can someone comment on Earth Watch certification

I am curious as to how Zihuatanejo and Ixtapa were certified by Earth Watch as per this months Imagine newsletter.
I may be wrong and things may have changed....... Are there many more garbage bins on the beaches, or a recycle program in place, improved or new sewage or water treatment.? Was there even a education program on the negative effects of litter on the ocean and the living creatures in and around the water. Is garbage still burned near Ixtapa which as times can cause
respiratory issues for some? It would be a wonderfully positive difference for all residents if in fact some of these issues
have been acted on. I hope.....

Thank You
Irene