Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Golfing

Marriott Bonvoy to host 1st Southern Thailand Charity Golf Day in Phuket

Kanchan Nath Aug 17, 2022

Golfers from across Thailand will gather in Phuket on Friday, 21 October 2022, as Marriott Bonvoy to host the inaugural Southern Thailand Charity Golf Day at Blue Canyon Country Club

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Uttar Pradesh to set up Ecotourism Board

Kanchan Nath Aug 17, 2022

To utilize the tourism potential of the state, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet gave its approval for setting up an eco-tourism development board.

Hotels

What is the way forward for independent hotels in GCC to achieve Net Zero emissions?

Kanchan Nath Aug 16, 2022

Nadia Ibrahim, Associate Director of Consultancy & Sustainability at Farnek, has revealed how all hotels throughout the region can create a bespoke roadmap to achieve Net Zero emissions…

Global

Going green! Lufthansa unveils ‘green fare’ for CO2-neutral flying

Megha Paul Aug 10, 2022

The Lufthansa Group is the first international aviation group to offer its customers a separate ‘green fare’ for CO2-neutral flying with SAF

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Sustainability in the mountains

Kristin Mariano Aug 10, 2022

Recent research unveiled by Booking.com in its Sustainable Travel Report 2022 found that 81% of travellers confirm that sustainable travel is important to them, with 50% saying that…

Air

Loganair launches new tourism pledge to ‘love islands’

Megha Paul Aug 5, 2022

Loganair, has introduced a new initiative that asks tourists to respect and protect the country’s unique island destinations by creating a new ‘island visitor pledge’

Tourism

CWT bats for protection of children in tourism

Megha Paul Aug 4, 2022

CWT has committed to uphold the six criteria of The Code, including establishing policies and procedures, training employees, implementing contractual clauses, providing information to…

Tourism

PATA launches food and plastic waste reduction measures for tourism businesses

Megha Paul Aug 3, 2022

PATA is collaborating with members of the Thai-EU tourism supply chain to develop a series of capacity-building initiatives that promote best practices for sustainable tourism growth

Tourism

Malta safest destination for LGBTQ+ holiday-makers

Megha Paul Aug 2, 2022

The Mediterranean island country has an LGBTQ+ travel safety index of 369, which after Canada is the second best figure for this metric out of every country

Global

Boeing and Cambridge University launch project to speed up decarbonisation of aviation sector

Megha Paul Aug 1, 2022

Boeing will engage in modeling pathways to a more sustainable aviation future with the University of Cambridge. The team will undertake detailed scenario-based analysis using the interactive…

Hospitality

IHG announces new partnerships to combat human trafficking

Megha Paul Jul 29, 2022

Senior advisors from both organisations will also join IHG’s anti-human trafficking steering committee and provide subject matter expertise for the company’s initiatives to deter criminal…

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Inspiring 100 million travellers! Trip.com rolls out green tourism goals

Megha Paul Jul 28, 2022

This will cover three key areas, including working with partners to launch over 10,000 low-carbon travel products; promoting sustainable travel concepts and engaging 100 million travellers…

Associations

GBTA rolls out new arm to boost people and planet initiatives

Megha Paul Jul 28, 2022

The GBTA Foundation will focus on the strategy and execution of GBTA’s global sustainability programs, supporting initiatives related to climate action, as well as diversity, equity and…

Air

Sustainable food in air! Emirates flight catering launches world’s largest vertical farm in Dubai

Megha Paul Jul 26, 2022

The farm’s closed-loop system is designed to circulate water through the plants to maximise water usage and efficiency

Tourism

Sharjah rolls out new adventure tourism project in Khorfakkan

Megha Paul Jul 20, 2022

Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced the launch of its new adventure project coming up in the Eastern area of Khorfakkan

Associations

Free online training for ABTA members to increase their knowledge on sustainability

Megha Paul Jul 18, 2022

The training covers the fundamentals of sustainability in travel, looking particularly at four areas such as managing environmental issues, destination management and local impacts,…

Tourism

PATA and GBTA gear up to host APAC Travel Summit in Bangkok

Megha Paul Jul 14, 2022

The joint event will address sustainability and best practices in tourism, MICE, and corporate travel

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Brits are ‘top deck’ when it comes to responsible travel

Kristin Mariano Jul 14, 2022

Eco-friendly domestic tourists in the UK are more switched on to the issue of sustainability than their European counterparts – and more likely to bear these concerns in mind when…

Tourism

$400-million sustainability-linked credit facility on the anvil for SITA

Megha Paul Jul 8, 2022

The backup facility will support the company’s general business needs, such as developing new solutions and strategies to alleviate the air transport industry’s challenges of today and in…

Tourism

MakeMyTrip enters Global Sustainable Tourism Council

Megha Paul Jun 29, 2022

The online travel agency joins a select band of travel companies across the world that are taking the lead in driving sustainable tourism practices

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Affluent travellers willing to pay more for sustainable experiences

Kristin Mariano Jun 29, 2022

Results from a recent survey conducted by global travel network Virtuoso highlight how some of the world’s most discerning travellers view sustainable tourism. The results found that…

Air

Aer Lingus partnership with top local graffiti artist Qubek flies off the wall in Manchester

Megha Paul Jun 21, 2022

Aer Lingus has teamed up with top local graffiti artist Qubek to create a massive new eye-catching street art mural showcasing the airline’s transatlantic Manchester routes

Hospitality

Sentosa harnesses solar energy with installation of solar panels at 18 sites

Megha Paul Jun 21, 2022

Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) and Resorts World Sentosa (RWS) are embarking on a large-scale deployment of photovoltaic cells to harness solar energy across Sentosa island’s premises…

Global

Enhancing Resilience! WTTC rolls out report on destination resurgence

Megha Paul Jun 20, 2022

The report, ‘Enhancing Resilience to Create Sustainability in Destinations’, created with ICF, WTTC’s industry partner and a renowned global consultancy and digital services provider,…

Air

IATA bats for sustainability, launches IATA CO2 Connect

Megha Paul Jun 20, 2022

IATA CO2 Connect responds to the growing demand for CO2 data transparency linked to airline specific and actual fuel burn information and load factors

Hospitality

Fairmont Maldives’ new GM looks forward to taking Sustainability Lab to new levels

Megha Paul Jun 20, 2022

Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi, a luxury resort set in the North Shaviyani Atoll, has announced the appointment of Marshall Orton as general manager

Air

Mumbai airport unveils vertical axis wind turbine and solar PV system

Megha Paul Jun 15, 2022

Mumbai airport has introduced this pilot programme to ensure 24/7 energy generation, harnessing maximum energy through wind power systems, while enabling highly efficient and low carbon…

Air

AirAsia India deploys revolutionary TaxiBot operations in Bengaluru

Megha Paul Jun 14, 2022

AirAsia India flagged off the commencement of TaxiBot operations at Bengaluru International Airport

Air

Air New Zealand appoints chief sustainability officer

Megha Paul Jun 14, 2022

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran says sustainability is the biggest issue facing the airline’s future and requires increased focus

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Fifty shades of green: Discover special Kiwi tourism businesses with conservation at the core

Kristin Mariano Jun 14, 2022

Sustainability and conservation have become increasingly important among travellers these days, with the growth in awareness of the environmental impact of travel. New Zealand invites…

Cruise

Norwegian has new animal welfare goals

Megha Paul Jun 10, 2022

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is expanding its commitment to responsible sourcing practices, including the legal, ethical and humane treatment of animals within its supply chain

Air

Going Green! IndiGo implements new measures to conserve water and cut carbon emissions

Megha Paul Jun 8, 2022

IndiGo is implementing innovative measures to reduce water and fuel consumption on flights

Top destinations for more sustainable travel in 2022

Megha Paul Jun 3, 2022

From trend-setting cities to stunning natural parks and destinations making a concerted effort to manage their travel volumes more consciously, there is plenty of inspiration for the 94% of…

QueerVadis! The world’s first international LGBTQ+ certification programme for travel is here

Megha Paul Jun 2, 2022

The historic QueerVadis Certification Program will award accreditations to entities that meet rigorous regulatory standards and protocols to ensure LGBTQ+ clients experience a respectful and…

Air

Qatar Airways unveils 2021 Sustainability Report

Megha Paul May 25, 2022

Qatar Airways Group has published its Sustainability Report for FY2019-21, a special 2-year edition themed “Response, Relief, Recovery, Resilience"

Tourism

UNWTO unveils digital futures programme for SMEs

Megha Paul May 18, 2022

Developed in collaboration with some of the world’s leading technology, finance and business companies, the initiative is focused on SMEs, which make up 80% of all tourism businesses

Hospitality

On the green track! Regenerative development crucial to the sustainability roadmap of the future

Megha Paul May 16, 2022

Chief Regenerative Officer of Selo Group, Piet Van Zyl talks about the indispensable role of regenerative practices on the hospitality sector and how sustainability checks the negative…

Tourism

Sustainability Is Responsibility! USTOA hosts first summit

Megha Paul May 12, 2022

The summit will be held in collaboration with Visit Norway at Thon Hotel Nordlys in the Arctic city of Bodø—one of the country’s regions most vulnerable to climate change

Ras Al Khaimah unveils Balanced Tourism

Megha Paul May 11, 2022

Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) has announced its bold new approach to sustainability – Balanced Tourism, a key milestone in its strategy to drive overall sector growth

Air

Air New Zealand highlights Māori culture in safety video

Megha Paul May 6, 2022

Tiaki and the Guardians will be rolled out across Air New Zealand's international and domestic fleet from 9 May 2022

Airlines and Aviation

Sustainability-themed Turkish Airlines aircraft is in the skies

Kristin Mariano May 6, 2022

Flying to more countries than any other airline, Turkish Airlines introduced a special design element adorned with leaves on its Airbus 321 type TC-JSU tail numbered aircraft, which was used…

Tourism

Safeguarding tourism in Africa and the Caribbean

Megha Paul May 4, 2022

The centre will share academic and practical projects development and implementation, as well as data sharing and analytics, focussing on safeguarding tourism in Africa and the Caribbean

Air

Lufthansa’s green mission gets a boost with ‘carbon neutral’ options

Megha Paul Apr 29, 2022

German airline Lufthansa is offering customers the chance to minimise carbon emissions from their flights through the booking process

Tourism

Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in tourism gets over 500 signatories

Megha Paul Apr 26, 2022

The number of signatories to the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism has passed the 500-mark, just four months after the landmark initiative was launched at the UN Climate…

Cruise

Princess Cruises debuts new environmental series

Megha Paul Apr 26, 2022

Princess Cruises has announced the debut of a new digital series titled Ocean Treks Conservation Connections, featuring short stories of environmental management, wildlife conservation, and…

Amex GBT unveils suite of sustainable meeting and event solutions

Megha Paul Apr 25, 2022

New solutions for meetings and events will help organizations measure and reduce carbon emissions and achieve sustainability goals

Features

Tourism sector to create 126 million new jobs within next decade, says WTTC

Megha Paul Apr 22, 2022

The World Travel & Tourism Council’s latest Economic Impact Report (EIR) reveals the tourism sector is expected to create nearly 126 million new jobs within the next decade

Hospitality

How Hotelbeds is helping Ukrainian refugees in Poland find work and accommodation

Megha Paul Apr 22, 2022

B2B travel tech company Hotelbeds and Polish NGO the MaYa Foundation have announced a new partnership dedicated to helping Ukrainian refugees find work and temporary accommodation in the…

WTTC launches ‘Hotel Sustainability Basics’ initiative at its Global Summit in Manila

Kristin Mariano Apr 22, 2022

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched its ‘Hotel Sustainability Basics’, a globally recognised and coordinated set of criteria that all hotels should implement as a…

Climate, Community and Choice! Trends shaping sustainable travel in 2022: Booking.com

Megha Paul Apr 18, 2022

Booking.com released new research, with insights gathered from more than 30,000 travellers across 32 countries and territories including Singapore, highlighting that the impact of their…

Tourism

Singapore takes another step towards green travel

Megha Paul Apr 18, 2022

Singapore has now joined the Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index) with the support of the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), to consolidate the country’s current sustainability…

Ol’au Palau: Islands of Palau will reward tourists for travelling sustainably

Kristin Mariano Apr 18, 2022

Ol’au Palau: a new model of responsible tourism that aims to change the way people interact with the country’s pristine environment and local culture.

UNWTO meeting focuses on tourism in rural areas

Megha Paul Apr 11, 2022

High-level speakers from across UNWTO and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recently held a virtual talk on how best to harness the potential that tourism has for…

Air

Sustainability50 is here! Etihad Airways adds first Airbus A350 to fleet

Megha Paul Apr 5, 2022

Etihad Airways has unveiled its new Airbus A350-1000, registration A6-XWB, on a special inaugural commercial flight from Abu Dhabi to Paris

UNWTO launches 2nd edition of Best Tourism Villages

Megha Paul Apr 1, 2022

UNWTO has announced the return of Best Tourism Villages for 2022, which promotes the role of tourism in safeguarding rural villages

Air

Eurowings and Cologne Airport join hands to plant 6000 trees in Königsforst

Megha Paul Apr 1, 2022

The initiative is the first of its kind in which a German airline and a domestic airport are working hand in hand

WTTC reveals speaker list for 21st global summit in the Philippines

Megha Paul Mar 31, 2022

WTTC unveils its speakers for its upcoming Global Summit in Manila, which includes Indonesian/Dutch activist Melati Wijsen and South Korean politician Ban Ki-Moon who served as the eighth…

CWT unveils real-time carbon footprint indicators to help travellers make more sustainable choices

Megha Paul Mar 29, 2022

The new enhancement will provide travelers with insights into the potential environmental impact of a trip, enabling them to make more sustainable choices at the point of booking

Tourism

WTTC calls on EU to ease travel rules

Megha Paul Mar 23, 2022

WTTC has called the European Union Tourism Ministers to remove the remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions and to keep the economy open

Tourism

Middle East UNWTO office sets new travel goals

Megha Paul Mar 21, 2022

UNWTO and Saudi Arabia have agreed on steps they will jointly take to turn tourism into a driver of growth, opportunity and development across the Middle East.

Air

How many trees would you need to plant to offset your holiday flight?

Megha Paul Mar 14, 2022

Tourism is responsible for 8% of the world’s carbon footprint, with transport making up nearly half of that figure

Tourism

PATA announces new dates for Ras Al Khaimah summit

Megha Paul Mar 8, 2022

PATA Annual Summit, which was scheduled to take place live and in-person in March, will now be held from October 25-27 in Ras Al Khaimah

Etihad Mangrove Forest unveiled to reduce carbon footprint in Abu Dhabi

Megha Paul Feb 28, 2022

Etihad Airways has launched the Etihad Mangrove Forest to provide guests, corporate accounts and partners the option to adopt mangroves in Abu Dhabi to reduce their carbon footprint

Tourism

ABTA launches new sustainability advice to members

Megha Paul Feb 24, 2022

ABTA has launched new guidance to help travel agents incorporate sustainability into their business practices

Tourism

Global Tourism Resilience & Crisis Management Centre inaugurated in Jordan

Megha Paul Feb 21, 2022

Global Tourism Resilience & Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC) referred to as the Taleb Rifai Centre has been launched in Jordan

Tourism

Jammu & Kashmir and OYO promote entrepreneurship with homestays

Megha Paul Feb 15, 2022

To encourage entrepreneurship among the youth of the state, OYO has partnered with the government of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) to launch a state-wide initiative – ‘Crown of Incredible…

Green avenues: In a first, 20 destinations in Tamil Nadu get sustainability ranking

Megha Paul Feb 3, 2022

Twenty destinations in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu have become pioneers having received their Sustainability Development Goals (SDG) index score and ranking at micro level

Tourism

How Visit Inverness Loch Ness has become first carbon neutral business improvement district in UK

Megha Paul Jan 24, 2022

Tourism Improvement District Visit Inverness Loch Ness (VILN) has become the first carbon neutral Business Improvement District (BID) in the UK

UNWTO unveils tourism investment guide

Megha Paul Jan 24, 2022

UNWTO has launched the first in a series of tourism investment guidelines focused on a specific country, representing a comprehensive tool for parties interested in foreign direct investment…

Global

Refreshed and green! Contiki’s new brand ready for world craving social travel experiences

Megha Paul Jan 24, 2022

To reflect a brighter future for travel - as well as this bottled-up desire for authentic human connections - Contiki, the world leaders in youth social travel, has launched a bold evolution…

New Airbnb offering: Live for a year in a restored ‘1 Euro’ Sicilian home

Megha Paul Jan 20, 2022

Airbnb is on the search for the ideal candidate to live rent-free for a year and host a decayed-turned-designer Italian heritage home

UNWTO chooses to headquarter its America’s office in Brazil

Megha Paul Jan 12, 2022

UNWTO has elected to locate the headquarters of its Americas office in Brazil and the decision was made at the UNWTO’s 24th General Assembly held last month

OTAs & Tour Operators

Byway launches first ever flight-free vegan holiday planner

Kristin Mariano Jan 6, 2022

Flight-free travel company Byway will launch a first of its kind dynamic vegan holiday planner

SeaYouTomorrow! How this hotel is helping fight climate crisis in Thailand

Megha Paul Jan 4, 2022

S Hotels and Resorts has joined forces with the Environmental Education Centre (EEC) Thailand to host an important event called SeaYouTomorrow aimed at raising awareness about the major…

Emirates SkyCargo transports 600 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines

Megha Paul Dec 30, 2021

Emirates SkyCargo has announced that it has crossed a major milestone in the global distribution of COVID-19 vaccines with 600 million doses flown on its flights

AirAsia initiates fund raising campaign in support of post-flood rebuilding

Megha Paul Dec 29, 2021

AirAsia Foundation is initiating its Malaysia Flood Relief donation drive in response to urgent calls for aid to support the rebuilding needs of communities impacted by the recent floods…

Tackling plastics pollution, the UNWTO way

Megha Paul Dec 21, 2021

The Global Tourism Plastics Initiative has welcomed a further 21 signatories, bringing the total of organisations that have committed to implement circular economy of plastics in the tourism…

Go Give One! Virgin Atlantic, Collinson and PATA join hands to tackle COVID-19 vaccine inequity

Megha Paul Dec 17, 2021

Virgin Atlantic has joined travel services specialist Collinson and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) as part of the Global Travel Sector Vaccine Coalition

WTTC chooses Manila for 2022 global summit

Megha Paul Dec 14, 2021

WTTC has confirmed next global summit will take place in Manila on March 14-16 in partnership with the Philippine department of tourism

Blanket border closures must end, says UNWTO

Megha Paul Dec 8, 2021

United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has called out against the introduction of blanket restrictions on travel, as witnessed in recent days

Qatar Airways welcomes new-gen first Boeing 777-9 aircraft to Doha

Megha Paul Nov 24, 2021

Qatar Airways showcased its role as a global launch customer for the latest generation Boeing 777-9 aircraft after welcoming the ultra-modern, fuel efficient jet to Doha International…

Sustainability goals! This airline is making uniform using fabric made from 100% recycled plastic bottles

Megha Paul Nov 23, 2021

easyJet's introduction of the new crew uniform is part of easyJet’s commitment to mitigate waste, increase re-use of materials and search for innovative change beyond carbon reduction…

PATA to hold Virtual PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2021 from 24 November

Megha Paul Nov 22, 2021

Virtual PATA Destination Marketing Forum 2021 will gather the top minds in destination marketing and management for inspiring and insightful discussions on some of the major issues in…

Kerala launches responsible tourism tag for hotels

Megha Paul Nov 18, 2021

Kerala has introduced a ‘responsible tourism’ (RT) classification for hotels and resorts, giving a thrust to environmental protection and ecological restoration through tourism

Booking.com launches Travel Sustainable Badge

Kristin Mariano Nov 17, 2021

Booking.com has launched the Travel Sustainable badge, a credible, globally relevant sustainability measure that will provide highly coveted information to travellers all over the world…

Booking.com unveils first-of-its-kind travel sustainable badge

Megha Paul Nov 16, 2021

Booking.com, has announced the inaugural launch of its Travel Sustainable badge, a credible, globally relevant sustainability measure that will provide highly coveted information to…

Three-quarters of Brits don’t consider carbon footprint when booking holiday

Megha Paul Nov 16, 2021

Hotel booking platform, hoo, has revealed that three-quarters of us fail to consider our carbon footprint when it comes to booking holidays

Going green! ABTA and Deloitte unveil climate change project

Megha Paul Nov 12, 2021

Over the next year ABTA and Deloitte will be collaborating on a range of activities that will help ABTA Members understand climate change, what decarbonisation looks like across the industry

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

The Expedia Group and UNESCO Sustainable Travel Pledge reaches 4,200 hotels

Kristin Mariano Nov 12, 2021

With the world gathering at COP26 in Glasgow, travel businesses are taking further responsibility towards sustainable travel.

Future of Tourism World Summit debuts in Barcelona

Megha Paul Nov 3, 2021

UNWTO joined the Advanced Leadership Foundation and the Incyde Foundation of the Chambers of Commerce of Spain for the opening day of the Future of Tourism World Summit

Airlines and Aviation

Cathay Pacific becomes a founding member of the Aviation Climate Taskforce

Kristin Mariano Nov 3, 2021

Cathay Pacific together with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and other airline leaders announced today the formation of the Aviation Climate Taskforce (ACT), a new non-profit organisation…

WTTC chooses Saudi Arabia for 22nd Global Summit

Megha Paul Nov 2, 2021

World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which represents the global travel and tourism sector, has announced its 22nd Global Summit will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, at the end of…

Andalucía launches new plan to reform region’s tourism

Megha Paul Nov 2, 2021

Ministry of Tourism for Andalucía has introduced the new General Plan for the Sustainable Tourism of Andalucía META 2027 (META 2027 Plan), designed to reform the region’s tourism strategy…

Saudi Arabia unveils Sustainable Tourism Global Centre

Megha Paul Oct 29, 2021

Saudi Arabian government has launched the Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC), a multi-country, multi-stakeholder coalition that will accelerate the tourism sector’s transition to net…

València crowned European Capital of Smart Tourism 2022

Megha Paul Oct 29, 2021

València has been named European Capital of Smart Tourism 2022 as the city's candidacy has been chosen by a jury of the European Commission

CAPA unveils historic, first-of-its-kind airline sustainability benchmarking report

Megha Paul Oct 27, 2021

CAPA together with carbon reduction strategists is pioneering the effective evaluation of airline carbon emissions in a new report released today

Following ethical tourism brands will become major trend: Arabian Travel Market

Megha Paul Oct 27, 2021

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has revealed that 2022 could witness a resurgence in brand conscious travellers, following commentary it received from delegates attending its 2021 in-person and…

Radisson makes all meetings and events carbon negative

Megha Paul Oct 21, 2021

Radisson Hotel Group has announced that it is the world’s first hotel group to make all meetings and events across 400+ hotels in its EMEA portfolio carbon negative

Cruise

Aurora Expeditions certified 100% Carbon Neutral in an ongoing active sustainability plan

Kristin Mariano Oct 21, 2021

Aurora Expeditions is certified 100% Carbon Neutral as part of its long-term and far-reaching sustainability strategy.

Because sometimes being there means everything! First major Eurowings campaign since start of pandemic

Megha Paul Oct 15, 2021

The new Eurowings campaign "Just be there" stages these special experiences emotionally and authentically in various online video formats

This hotel on a green mission in Lake District has unveiled carbon neutral stay ahead of COP26

Megha Paul Oct 14, 2021

Victorian House Hotel in Grasmere in the Lake District is on a mission to make Cumbria greener by 2037 and ahead of the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow

Etihad raises USD1.2 billion in first sustainability-linked ESG loan in global aviation

Megha Paul Oct 14, 2021

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has raised USD 1.2 billion in the first sustainability-linked loan (SLL) tied to environmental, social and governance (ESG) targets in global…

4 eco-tourism initiatives in Kyushu, Japan

Kristin Mariano Oct 13, 2021

Remember the viral town of Kamikatsu in Japan, the world’s first zero-waste town? Japan is the innovator in modernisation and technology, but it is also a world leader in sustainable…

Pacific and Mekong ink tourism deal to foster sustainable travel

Megha Paul Oct 12, 2021

Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO) and Destination Mekong have inked a pact to foster a collaborative partnership that will benefit both organisations and their stakeholders

Neom and UNWTO join hands to boost Saudi tourism

Megha Paul Oct 11, 2021

UNWTO and Neom have partnered for new initiative focused on the future of tourism in Saudi Arabia with the Tourism Experiences of the Future challenge

Airlines and Aviation

Cathay Pacific aims for net-zero emissions by 2050

Kristin Mariano Oct 4, 2021

Cathay Pacific is reaffirming its commitment to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 by pledging to use Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for 10% of its total fuel consumption by 2030.

How Phuket hoteliers joined hands to remove 3 tonnes of rubbish from the island’s beaches

Megha Paul Sep 30, 2021

Over 500 volunteers from hotels, resorts and communities across Phuket came together this month to remove a staggering 3 tonnes of rubbish from island’s coastline

WTTC unveils net zero roadmap for tourism at virtual ‘Climate Week’ event

Megha Paul Sep 24, 2021

WTTC has announced the launch of a Net Zero Roadmap for the tourism sector to support the industry in combatting climate change during its virtual climate week event

How UNWTO prepared Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action ahead of COP26

Megha Paul Sep 23, 2021

In preparation for COP26, two information sessions were held on the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Sentosa’s ambitious sustainability roadmap supports Singapore Green Plan 2030

Kristin Mariano Sep 21, 2021

Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) is committing to major goals in the next phase of the Sustainable Sentosa strategic roadmap.

Kerala launches Caravan Tourism policy

Megha Paul Sep 17, 2021

Kerala government has announced a caravan tourism policy, promising safe, customised, and close-to-nature travel experience for visitors in tune with the preferences of tourists in the…

Saudi plans first sustainable tourism project in Al Baha

Megha Paul Sep 15, 2021

Tourism Development Fund (TDF) and Seera Group signed a financing agreement to establish and operate the Raghadan Tourist Resort, the first sustainable tourism project in the Al Baha region

Centara EarthCare sustainability standard recognised by Global Sustainable Tourism Council

Kristin Mariano Sep 15, 2021

Centara Hotels & Resorts has received “GSTC-Recognised Standard” status from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, a milestone achievement in the group’s commitment to long-term…

LATAM transports over 100 million Covid-19 vaccines free of charge

Megha Paul Sep 13, 2021

LATAM Group has exceeded 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines transported free of charge within Brazil, Chile, Ecuador and Peru

Portugal sets stage for 5th UNWTO global conference on wine tourism

Megha Paul Sep 9, 2021

UNWTO, Visit Portugal and the city of Reguengos de Monsaraz in the Alentejo region is holding the 5th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism, in collaboration with the Government of…

Portugal to host maiden edition of sustainable travel conference this September

Megha Paul Sep 7, 2021

Organisers of the ‘A World for Travel – Évora Forum’, the new annual sustainable travel industry event, have confirmed dates for 16-17 September of this year

Recommendations to help accelerate travel recovery in Asia Pacific

Megha Paul Sep 2, 2021

ATTIA is launching a Recommendation Paper around “The Building Blocks of Digital Health Passes” as a part of its 2021 Travel Recovery Thought Leadership Series

València becomes first city in world to measure water footprint of tourist activity

Megha Paul Aug 26, 2021

València has reached a new milestone in its commitment to the development of sustainable tourism by becoming the first city in the world to measure the water footprint of tourist activity

Time for ScotSpirit Holiday! VisitScotland unveils new campaign to boost travel recovery

Megha Paul Aug 17, 2021

VisitScotland is encouraging businesses to sign up to a new voucher scheme to help low income families, unpaid careers and disadvantaged young people who have been adversely affected by the…

First carbon neutral hotel stays launched in Mauritius

Megha Paul Aug 16, 2021

Veranda Leisure and Hospitality (VLH), operators of Heritage Resorts and Veranda Resorts, are offering the first carbon neutral hotel stays in Mauritius from October 2021

Europe becomes Strategic Partner of ITB China 2021

Megha Paul Aug 6, 2021

Many Chinese are looking forward to travelling abroad according to recent data collected by the European Travel Commission (ETC), who is strengthening ties with ITB China as a Strategic…

Give the World a Shot! Expedia announces global vaccine partnership with UNICEF

Megha Paul Aug 6, 2021

Starting today, each purchase made via Expedia Group’s mobile apps will result in a donation to help UNICEF’s global COVID-19 response

IndiGo becomes first domestic carrier to launch IATA Travel Pass on 20 August

Megha Paul Aug 4, 2021

Budget carrier IndiGo has announced it has partnered with IATA to become the first airline in the country to launch a pilot for the latter’s digital passport initiative called Travel Pass

Boeing releases maiden Sustainability Report

Megha Paul Aug 3, 2021

Boeing released its first Sustainability Report to share its vision for the future of sustainable aerospace, establish broad sustainability goals and highlight environmental, social and…

Fortune Hotels unveils ‘Gratitude package’ for Covid Warriors

Megha Paul Jul 26, 2021

Fortune Hotels, a member of ITC’s hotel group, has announced attractive packages to address the needs of the urban traveller

COVID, sustainability take centre stage in Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony

Kristin Mariano Jul 26, 2021

The current Olympic Games is extra special as it highlighted the ongoing COVID pandemic and sustainability.

Travelling responsibly in Japan

Kristin Mariano Jul 22, 2021

In Japan, where cleanliness is taken seriously, there are ways to travel responsibly.

Guidelines for tourism businesses to advance prevention of illegal wildlife trade

Megha Paul Jul 21, 2021

World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has released major new guidelines outlining how the global travel and tourism sector can work together to tackle illegal wildlife trade (IWT)

Germany’s ‘Feel Good’ campaign boosts sustainable travel

Megha Paul Jul 20, 2021

The GNTB is promoting Destination Germany’s wide range of sustainable tourism offerings

Tourism stakeholders takes action on plastic waste and pollution

Megha Paul Jul 13, 2021

Aimed at reducing waste and pollution across the sector, the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative (GTPI) is welcoming 32 new signatories

10 greenest cities for eco-friendly fitness

Kristin Mariano Jul 8, 2021

A new study by Reebok has revealed the best cities to visit and live in to partake in eco-friendly exercise.

Biggest tourism campaign unveiled to bring the world ‘Back to Bali’

Megha Paul Jul 2, 2021

BALI’S major tourism stakeholders have pulled together to create the biggest tourism campaign in the history of the island - ‘Back to Bali’.

UNWTO sets stage for 1st Global Youth Tourism Summit in Italy

Megha Paul Jun 25, 2021

1st Global Youth Tourism Summit from 23-25 August 2021 in Sorrento in Italy will be the first of this kind at the global level aiming to promote youth engagement in the tourism sector and…

Selo Group Empowers Local Communities with New Ecommerce Platform

Chris Head Jun 22, 2021

Acclaimed development company’s new Selo Footprints website highlights small Indonesian businesses as part of its community-focused approach

Bon vivant rejoice! 6th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism unveils new dates

Megha Paul Jun 14, 2021

Held under the theme ‘Gastronomy Tourism: Promoting Rural Tourism and Regional Development’, the Forum will take place 31 October – 2 November 2021 in Bruges, Belgium

This hotel is giving back to hospitality industry with ‘Scotcation’ twist

Megha Paul Jun 9, 2021

A charitable hotel is inviting individuals across the UK to ‘Scotcation’ in Edinburgh with a new package which will see 10% of income going directly towards its staff and another 10% to…

Reunite: New WTTC campaign shows importance of international travel to people

Megha Paul Jun 8, 2021

A new campaign has been launched by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) calling on governments around the world to restart international travel and enable the world to ‘Reunite’…

Here’s how Etihad and UN will work to strengthen volunteering globally

Megha Paul Jun 4, 2021

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has become the first airline to sign an agreement with the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme aiming to strengthen volunteering…

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Sustainable mobility can unlock USD400B in gulf region

Kristin Mariano Jun 3, 2021

Governments in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) could unlock USD400 billion of socio-economic value through the adoption and deployment of sustainable mobility strategies and technologies.

How Chiva-Som is spearheading ‘Hua Hin Recharge’ campaign

Megha Paul May 31, 2021

Chiva-Som, has announced a milestone step in the reopening of Hua Hin to international tourists called ‘Hua Hin Recharge’ following an extensive period of quarantine restrictions

The most sustainable cities in the world

Kristin Mariano May 31, 2021

A new study by Uswitch reveals which cities around the world are the most sustainable.

Dubai Sustainable Tourism launches green initiative

Megha Paul May 21, 2021

Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST), part of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) to further Dubai’s position as one of the world’s leading sustainable tourism…

Agri-tourism, the way forward for Maharashtra

Megha Paul May 20, 2021

The recently concluded two-day conference on agri-tourism paved the way forward for the growth of this segment in Maharashtra

Tourism Boards

Sustainable South Australia: Inspiring experiences for conscious clients

Kristin Mariano May 7, 2021

Eco-friendly travel is on the rise, this is a chance for you to capture conscious travellers and potential clients looking for sustainable holidays in South Australia.

G20 ministers welcome UNWTO guidelines for green transformation of tourism

Megha Paul May 6, 2021

UNWTO has served as tourism’s global voice as the Tourism Ministers of the G20 nations met to devise a way forward for an inclusive, resilient, and sustainable recovery for the sector

Duty of care at forefront of new travel risk management platform

Kristin Mariano May 6, 2021

With duty of care firmly front of mind for business travel managers planning post-pandemic travel, a new platform gives them the latest information and tools they need to respond to the…

Shelter for all! GiveIndia and Oyo launch fundraiser for underprivileged during COVID-19 recovery

Megha Paul May 5, 2021

GiveIndia and OYO Care have launched a fundraising campaign #ShelterForAll with an aim to raise INR 10 crore to offer rooms as isolation and quarantine shelters for COVID-19 positive…

The good samaritan! Qatar Airways ships essential medical supplies to India free of cost

Megha Paul May 3, 2021

Qatar Airways is supporting international efforts to tackle the second COVID-19 surge in India by shipping medical aid and equipment to the country free of charge from global suppliers

WTTC applauds private sector’s united approach to building travel recovery

Megha Paul Apr 27, 2021

World Travel & Tourism Council’s Global Summit has opened up as the first post-pandemic physical event in Mexico this week

Tasmania to become a carbon neutral destination by 2025

Kristin Mariano Apr 27, 2021

Tasmania’s tourism industry has set the ambitious goal of becoming a carbon-neutral destination in just four years.

Supporting sustainable travel: From Greenland, with love

Megha Paul Apr 26, 2021

Hjörtur Smárason, the new managing director at Visit Greenland talks about how the country aims to become one of the world’s leading destinations in sustainable tourism

Earth Day special: How Qatar is protecting vulnerable species, habitats and natural wonders

Megha Paul Apr 22, 2021

To mark Earth Day today on 22 April, Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) is celebrating the conservation of a favourite local aquatic mammal, the dugong, which is the subject of an…

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

Alphonse, Seychelles: A small island that is big on sustainability and ecotourism

Kristin Mariano Apr 22, 2021

Alphonse Island, a part of the Blue Safari Seychelles, is leading the way for sustainable travel in the Outer Islands of the Seychelles.

UNWTO logs in to Facebook to restart travel

Megha Paul Apr 20, 2021

UNWTO and Facebook have partnered to help global destinations make use of the power of digital marketing as they look to welcome tourists back safely

Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah supports ‘pink lake’ clean-up

Megha Paul Apr 6, 2021

Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah has ramped up its sustainability efforts by cleaning up the ‘Pink Lake’ in Ras Al Khaimah

Thai Vietjet unveils ‘Fly Green Fund’ to support environment

Megha Paul Apr 2, 2021

Thai Vietjet, in cooperation with Seub Nakhasathien Foundation, officially announced the partnership, launching ‘Fly Green Fund’, inviting the airline’s passengers and the public to donate…

Global community should support small island developing states, says UNWTO

Megha Paul Mar 31, 2021

UNWTO) is calling for the international community to show solidarity with ‘small island developing states’ (SIDS) by ensuring they have access to Covid-19 vaccinations

It’s a perfect match as Switzerland Tourism ropes in Roger Federer

Megha Paul Mar 30, 2021

Roger Federer has now become an official brand ambassador for the Swiss national tourism board

Sweden ranks No. 1 for global sustainable tourism

Megha Paul Mar 22, 2021

Sweden has been ranked at the top of Euromonitor International’s Sustainable Travel Index, which has classified  99 countries worldwide through the lens of sustainable tourism

Delhi launches heritage promotion scheme in budget

Megha Paul Mar 11, 2021

The Delhi government has introduced a heritage promotion scheme in its annual budget seeking to brand the national capital as a tourist destination

UNWTO unveils guide to help women in tourism

Megha Paul Mar 9, 2021

UNWTO is marking International Women’s Day 2021 with the release of its Inclusive Recovery Guide for women in tourism, compiled in collaboration with UN Women

UNWTO launches travel restrictions report

Megha Paul Mar 8, 2021

UNWTO Travel Restrictions Report provides a comprehensive overview of the regulations in place in 217 destinations worldwide

Why International Women’s Day is particularly important this year

Alastair Newport Mar 5, 2021

If there’s one upside to experiencing a major challenge or transformative event, it’s that these moments can highlight issues that were sitting on the backburner and provide an opportunity…

Global

Morocco sets stage for first UNWTO general assembly after pandemic

Megha Paul Mar 4, 2021

The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and Moroccan officials recently met to advance the organization of the 24th UNWTO General Assembly in October 2021, the first global high-level UN…

Charity / Sustainability / CSR

RedDoorz offers free temporary accommodations

Kristin Mariano Mar 2, 2021

RedDoorz has announced the launch of a new CSR campaign in collaboration with Singapore-based charity organisation Daughters Of Tomorrow (DOT).

Sawasdee Ka piggies! Travellers can now explore Thailand’s ‘Bay of Pigs’

Megha Paul Feb 18, 2021

Banyan Tree Samui is offering a half-day tour in a state-of-the-art speedboat which can carry up to 12 passengers to the uninhabited Koh Matsum to watch affectionate pigs

Intrepid campaign raises USD 15,458 for families in Peru

Megha Paul Feb 10, 2021

Intrepid Travel’s non-profit The Intrepid Foundation, in partnership with the NGO MEDLIFE, has delivered meals to over 350 families in Peru’s Sacred Valley

Kerala must ramp up commitment to responsible tourism

Megha Paul Feb 5, 2021

Kerala should ramp up its commitment to responsible tourism (RT) and move towards declaring the whole state as an RT destination in the light of changing consumer preferences towards zero…

Hospitality

Going local! Discova unveils new project to support farmers in Bali

Megha Paul Feb 5, 2021

With a long-standing commitment to generate alternative income for the communities they work with, Discova has unveiled a new project to support the local communities of the region in Bali

For planet and its people! Park Hotels launches ‘Room For Trees’

Megha Paul Feb 3, 2021

Park Hotel Group, a hospitality company in Asia Pacific, has announced the launch of Room For Trees programme in partnership with Eden Reforestation Projects (Eden)

2020 worst year for tourism, says UNWTO

Megha Paul Jan 29, 2021

Global tourism suffered its worst year on record in 2020, with international arrivals dropping by 74 per cent when compared to 2019 according to the latest data from the UNWTO

Saudi Tourism Authority unveils winter travel offering

Megha Paul Jan 28, 2021

Saudi Tourism Authority has launched new tourism packages as part of the Saudi Arabian Winter Season

UAE announces Tourism Council formation

Megha Paul Jan 25, 2021

UAE Cabinet, chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has approved the formation of the Emirates Tourism Council

IATA calls for EU-wide Covid-19 vaccination certificate

Megha Paul Jan 21, 2021

IATA has urged all branches of the European Union to support an initiative from Greek prime minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, to agree a common digital European Covid-19 vaccination certificate

Over 100 million global tourism jobs could be recovered in 2021: WTTC

Megha Paul Jan 20, 2021

WTTC says more than 100 million jobs could return to the global travel and tourism sector during 2021 as the world recovers from the crippling COVID-19 pandemic

UNWTO to host key week for global tourism

Megha Paul Jan 18, 2021

Today in Madrid, the UNWTO Global Tourism Crisis Committee will hold its first meeting of the year to advance concrete plans to ensure the restart of tourism will take place

Keep calm and log on! PATA to host Virtual PATA Annual Summit 2021

Megha Paul Jan 13, 2021

PATA's three-day virtual event, in collaboration with Ras Al Khaimah, will bring together international thought leaders, industry shapers and senior decision-makers in the travel industry

Madhya Pradesh inks pact with Kerala to adopt its ‘responsible tourism’ model

Megha Paul Jan 11, 2021

Madhya Pradesh government has expressed interest to implement the model, aimed at development of village and local communities, eradicating poverty and giving emphasis to women empowerment

Tourism

Travellers lend support to protect Seychelles’ environment

Megha Paul Jan 7, 2021

Travizory presented The Republic of the Seychelles with SCR 1,229,540 million (USD 58071.96) for the Environment Trust Fund

Hospitality

Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort wins plaudits for marine conservation

Alastair Newport Jan 2, 2021

Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort has announced that it has been recognised once again for its environmental efforts.

Global

Barefoot luxury experience, plant-based menus and tracking manta rays! This luxury resort is perfect for your getaway

Megha Paul Dec 29, 2020

David Stepetic, general manager of Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, candidly talks about how the hotel is conforming to high-end safety measures mandated by law and international guidelines in the…

To UK with love! Giant Christmas message from Aussies to Brits etched into beach

Megha Paul Dec 23, 2020

An Australian beach has taken the form of an enormous Christmas card, with a heartfelt message from Australia to the UK created in the sand

Marriott unveils Your Smile Travels A Thousand Miles campaign to send messages of warmth

Megha Paul Dec 22, 2020

Marriott Asia Pacific launched “Your Smile Travels A Thousand Miles” campaign, to celebrate the company’s associates and guests’ resilience throughout the year and promote the smiles behind…

UNWTO launches global ‘restart tourism’ campaign

Megha Paul Dec 15, 2020

Centred around a 45-second film, the 'restart tourism' campaign affirms UNWTO as the unifying voice behind the global restart of tourism

Record-breaking fourth edition of Dubai Fitness Challenge 2020 draws to a close

Megha Paul Dec 4, 2020

Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) officially concluded its most ambitious and inspiring edition to date with more than 1,500,000 participants rising to the 30x30 Challenge

‘How to go in 2021’: The ultimate travel list that you need

Megha Paul Nov 28, 2020

Intrepid Travel has released its first ‘How To Go in 2021’ list, highlighting key trends that will shape travel in the next year

Going green: Italy unveils EU-backed project to encourage sustainable tourism

Megha Paul Nov 26, 2020

EU Eco-Tandem Programme also aims to promote sustainable tourism by helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) become more innovative

TAT supports elephants and environment organisations with ‘Thailand Reduce Waste’ campaign

Megha Paul Nov 20, 2020

The Tourism Authority of Thailand has announced that it is donating through the ‘Thailand Reduce Waste’ campaign to Friends of the Asian Elephant and the Seub Nakhasathien Foundation

UNWTO visits Brazil to support sustainable recovery

Megha Paul Nov 20, 2020

UNWTO has reaffirmed commitment to working closely with the government of Brazil to help the country’s tourism sector recover and become a key driver of sustainable development

Lockdowns raise awareness: 77% of UK residents to consider environment in future holiday plans

Megha Paul Nov 19, 2020

Nearly half (49%) of UK residents said that the impact of COVID-19 has raised awareness about the impact holidays and travel have on the environment, recent research by iCarhireinsurance.com…

WTTC to hold Global Summit in March in Cancun to help restore travel around the world

Megha Paul Nov 18, 2020

The first major conference in the ‘new normal’ of the COVID-19 world will take place in Cancun, Mexico on 23-25 March 2021, hosted by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

MTDC partners with Airbnb to promote offbeat destinations in Maharashtra

Megha Paul Nov 16, 2020

By promoting homestay tourism, this partnership will encourage travel to lesser-known destinations and will enable inclusive community-led tourism in the state, that will further enhance…

Cakes for elephants help sustain local farmers and struggling families in Thailand

Alastair Newport Nov 12, 2020

Elephants in Northern Thailand are enjoying a new trend in treats – custom-made celebration cakes adorned with messages that acknowledge special milestones such as birthdays and…

Mandarin Oriental on track to remove single-use plastic

Megha Paul Nov 12, 2020

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, which pledged to eliminate all single-use plastic in October 2019 across its portfolio of 33 luxury hotels, by the end of March 2021, has reported on the…

Ontario allocates USD 180.5 million for training and jobs in tourism

Megha Paul Nov 11, 2020

Canada’s Ontario government is providing USD 180.5 million to connect workers in the tourism and hospitality sector and others most affected by the pandemic to training and jobs

Reopening updates

Costa Rica unveils ‘Pura Vida Pledge’ for visitors to make sustainable difference post Covid-19

Megha Paul Nov 11, 2020

Costa Rican Tourism Board has launched Pura Vida Pledge – a promise to educate visitors about real meaning of responsible tourism to make a true difference to the local communities in the…

Nature & Me: Montenegro launches new tourism campaign

Megha Paul Nov 10, 2020

The campaign video, which features travel experiences from across Montenegro, highlights the untouched natural beauty of the country and reminds us that that nature is our friend

Kerala Tourism unveils Miyawaki forest project in 22 spots

Megha Paul Nov 10, 2020

In a major green initiative, Kerala Tourism has launched a project to create Miyawaki model micro forests at 22 tourism spots in 12 districts across the state

Tourism

How India welcomed its first solar energy-driven miniature railway at Veli Tourist Village in Kerala

Megha Paul Nov 5, 2020

India’s first solar energy-driven miniature railway at Veli Tourist Village has been unveiled by CM as part of a new project to boost tourism

Travel Tech

UNWTO supports digital innovation for Africa’s tourism attractions

Megha Paul Nov 4, 2020

Emphasis on digital innovation to position Africa's tourism attractions will be a key component of The Ubuntu: Africa Invites You To Live campaign, developed by ATREVIA that has won UNWTO…