6 Trailblazing Travel Firms Transforming Tourism Through Sustainability and Inclusivity
In today’s world, travelers are increasingly aware of the need for responsible tourism—an approach that combines environmental consciousness, cultural respect, and community support. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Responsible Tourism Awards, the International Centre for Responsible Tourism Global highlights the remarkable contributions of six travel firms that embody sustainable tourism. From eco-lodges that uplift local communities to hotels that prioritize inclusive experiences, these companies are paving the way for a tourism industry that truly benefits people and the planet.
1. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
Winner in the category of community empowerment, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is a luxury eco-lodge set on 3,500 hectares of protected wilderness in South Africa.
As part of their mission to support the surrounding communities, Grootbos funds the Grootbos Foundation, which provides free training in hospitality, conservation, and entrepreneurship to local residents. Guests at Grootbos can enjoy guided nature walks, marine safaris, and explore the region's famed fynbos landscapes, all while knowing their stay directly benefits conservation efforts and local employment.
The Responsible Tourism judges praised Grootbos for continuously innovating to blend luxury tourism with sustainable practices, making it a model of responsible tourism in action.
Grootbos Foundation supports community conservation, offering skills training in hospitality and environmental management for South Africa’s future generations.
2. Rajasthan Studio, India
Rajasthan Studio won recognition for its dedication to cultural tourism and art preservation. This company provides travelers with a chance to engage in hands-on experiences with local artisans, learning crafts like Jaipur’s blue pottery, Udaipur’s sea foam carving, and Jodhpur’s leatherwork. By facilitating intimate, authentic cultural exchanges, Rajasthan Studio ensures artisans receive fair compensation while educating travelers on the significance of traditional arts. Founder Kartik Gaggar’s approach has created a sustainable model for community-centric travel experiences that respect and preserve Rajasthan’s heritage.
Rajasthan Studio transforms traditional tourism by offering immersive, craft-focused experiences that celebrate India’s rich artisanal legacy.
3. Sivatel Bangkok Hotel, Thailand
Sivatel Bangkok was recognized for its commitment to sustainable sourcing and creating value for its local community. The hotel has formed a "Farmer Friends Network" of over 50 local suppliers, ensuring that 70% of its ingredients are organically sourced. One unique initiative, the "From Kitchen to Chicken" program, diverts hotel food scraps to feed larvae used as protein for chickens at a local organic farm. Sivatel Bangkok also supports local artisans through partnerships with sustainable fashion brands. Judges praised Sivatel for this structured, community-driven program, which showcases how tourism can strengthen local economies.
Sivatel Bangkok’s programs demonstrate how sustainability can support community development while enriching the tourism experience.
4. TUI UK&I, United Kingdom
TUI UK&I took home the award for its inclusive approach, emphasizing accessible tourism for all. TUI has implemented accessibility training for its staff and partnered with organizations like AccessAble to provide detailed guides for travelers with disabilities. Sign Live services are available to provide interpreting services for British Sign Language users. With these initiatives, TUI is leading the way in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that ensures everyone, regardless of ability, can experience the joy of travel.
TUI’s accessibility initiatives offer a model for the tourism industry, making travel inclusive and accessible for all abilities.
5. Jetwing Hotels, Sri Lanka
Jetwing Hotels, a boutique hotel group in Sri Lanka, won for its ambitious climate action. By using renewable energy sources such as biomass and solar power, Jetwing has reduced its environmental impact while maintaining high-quality guest experiences. Air conditioning in tropical climates can drive up energy consumption, but Jetwing uses solar thermal energy to power its cooling systems, and the group sources 40% of its supplies locally, lowering transportation emissions. This commitment to green energy and sustainability showcases how smaller hotel groups can make a difference in climate-conscious tourism.
Jetwing Hotels’ renewable energy practices set an inspiring example of sustainable operations in the tourism industry.
6. CREES, Peru
The Peruvian-based CREES won the Nature Positive award for its dedication to biodiversity preservation in the Manu Biosphere Reserve. By providing volunteer programs, CREES invites travelers to participate in conservation efforts like reforestation and biodiversity monitoring. Guests witness conservation projects first-hand, learning from naturalist guides and engaging in hands-on activities to restore native forests. This immersive experience in the Amazon rainforest not only educates travelers but also generates crucial funding for CREES’s long-term conservation initiatives.
CREES shows how nature-positive tourism can contribute to biodiversity and local community welfare.
Supporting Responsible Travel for a Better Future
These six travel firms demonstrate that tourism can be a powerful force for good—promoting cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and economic opportunity. By choosing responsible travel companies like Grootbos, Rajasthan Studio, and Sivatel Bangkok, travelers have the chance to make a positive impact. As the travel industry recovers to pre-pandemic levels, the demand for sustainable and inclusive experiences continues to grow. With the right practices in place, travel can indeed transform the world for the better.