Meet Thomas Müller, founder of rainmaker.travel, a social enterprise dedicated to empowering local tourism businesses through digital innovation. Recognising the challenges of small, independent hospitality providers, Thomas is on a mission to democratise digital access and foster economic sustainability. In this interview, Thomas reveals how rainmaker.travel helps businesses reclaim their digital presence, increase direct bookings, […]

Meet Elton Caushi – as founder of Albanian Trip, he shares his inspiring journey of creating a travel company rooted in sustainability and community engagement. Inspired by Albania’s landscapes and culture, Elton also champions responsible tourism that benefits both locals and visitors. He highlights how Albanian Trip turns challenges into opportunities and utilises community involvement […]

Saskia Griep of Better Places shares her vision for responsible tourism, and how to create meaningful travel experiences that benefit people and the planet.

Geoff Manchester of Intrepid Travel on how sustainable tours and community initiatives create meaningful connections, while addressing climate and overtourism.

Explore Antara Phookan's journey in sustainable tourism and conservation in Assam and Bengal. Discover her challenges, rewards, and impactful initiatives.

Meet Mauricio Miramontes - promoting sustainable adventure tourism and community well-being through projects like La Mano del Mono and Reserva Natura.

Explore how Pablo Ramón revolutionizes accessible travel through NATIVE Hotels, enhancing tourism for all, including those with disabilities.

Meet Fredrik Lindén and Marie Linde, who in this interview share their thoughts on Destination West Sweden's journey towards sustainable tourism development.

In the world of Swiss hospitality, Ibex Fairstay stands as a beacon of sustainability. Spearheading this initiative is Anita Gschwind, a veteran in the hospitality sector, with a deep-rooted passion for sustainable development nurtured from a background in agriculture and a career spanning various roles in the industry. We caught up with Anita to explore […]

Natalia Bayona on UNWTO's role in sustainable tourism, innovation, and education. Features SME and startup competitions, the metaverse and more.

Meet Megan Epler Wood, a leading sustainable tourism educator, author and advisor who continues to shape the future of sustainable destination development, reducing the Invisible Burden of travel and tourism.

Meet Nina Boys, a young sustainable tourism entrepreneur, and learn how she is redefining the future of tourism through Beyond Green Travel.

Ian McNeel shares his insights on revitalizing Barbados through sustainable solutions and community empowerment. Discover how Ian and his team are making a positive impact on the island, regenerating Barbados for a brighter future.

Sustainable tourism visionary, Jens Thraenhart discusses destination sustainability in Barbados and the Bajan Treasures Collection of responsible travel businesses.

Mahmood Patel of Coco Hill Forest, Barbados shares how he links sustainable tourism with agriculture, energy, and creativity, to support the local economy.

Learn how photographer and videographer Ronnie Carrington promotes sustainable tourism and responsible travel in Barbados.

Interview with Robin Boustead, founder of the Great Himalaya Trail, discussing responsible tourism in the Himalayan region.

In this interview with Che Greenidge, CEO of the Barbados Environmental Conservation Trust, learn about the organization's sustainability initiatives and the challenges facing Barbados in terms of sustainability.

Discover the journey of trailblazing Chinese entrepreneur Koko Tang and her impact on sustainable tourism. Learn about her Vinetree resort's commitment to authenticity and sustainability.

Meet Florian Kaefer: discover his motivations, experiences and priorities in our in-depth interview, check out his sustainability leadership publications and consulting, or book him as a speaker for your event.

Melissa Foley on the benefits of certification programs and the need for greater collaboration within tourism to develop sustainable tourism practices.

Prof. Urs Wagenseil of Lucerne University in Switzerland shares his thoughts on sustainable destination management: how to do it and which pitfalls to avoid.

Interview with Laura Turner Seydel, on the climate emergency and how we can build a more sustainable future - as individuals and with corporations understanding the UNSDGs as THE business plan for the 21st century.

Darrell Wade of Intrepid on how the travel company champions carbon management and sustainable tourism development around the world.

Les Carlisle of andBeyond in this interview shares his learnings from 30 years of wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism development in Africa.

Scalottas terroir by Schweizerhof Lenzerheide in Switzerland: a great example of sustainable hospitality and regional cuisine, possible through close collaboration between the restaurant and its suppliers, with a focus on celebrating biodiversity and sustainability.

Eduardo Santander, Executive Director of ETC, the European Travel Commission, on Destination Europe, sustainable tourism and travel after the pandemic.

Danielle D'Silva shares how Booking.com is working towards sustainability and how the OTA encourages responsible travel.

Peter De Wilde of VISITFLANDERS on destination sustainability strategies, purposeful marketing and the way ahead for sustainable tourism in Europe.

Jorge Moller Rivas on the current state of tourism sustainability in Chile and why community engagement is key to promoting responsible tourism.

Kai Collins on sustainable tourism and the need for a community-driven conservation approach to protecting the ecosystem of the Okavango Delta in Botswana.

Greg Bakunzi on the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic and the importance of involving rural communities into the tourism value chain as a way to support conservation and sustainable tourism.

Praveen Moman on great ape conservation in Central Africa and the importance of responsible tourism for local communities.

Shivya Nath on the future of travel in the post-pandemic world and how she is supporting rural storytellers in India to find their voice in the digital space.

Joanna Van Gruisen on why she founded the Sarai at Toria eco-lodge near Panna Tiger Reserve in India, and how she combines wildlife conservation and community development with responsible travel and regenerative tourism.

Best-selling author and journalist, Elizabeth Becker on overtourism, the role of the media and what it would take to make tourism sustainable.

Jos Vranken on Holland's sustainable destination strategy, how COVID19 has impacted tourism in the Netherlands and how DMOs are realigning their strategies and priorities.

Frankie Hobro in this interview illustrates how she handled the drop in revenue at Anglesea Sea Zoo due to the Covid-19 lockdown.

Rob Holmes in this interview shares how his company GLP Films uses storytelling and videos to inspire and encourage sustainability in the travel industry.

Marcus Curcija on how to address the UN sustainable development goals and achieve better outcomes for communities through data visualisation and impact assessment.

Shoba Mohan of RARE India shares how she champions conscious luxury travel and sustainable hospitality on the subcontinent.

Jalsa Urubshurow of Nomadic Expeditions on how he supports communities in remote parts of Mongolia through tourism, helping them to embrace their traditions and wildlife.

Meet Sonja Gottlebe of Boogie Pilgrim, championing sustainable tourism in Madagascar. Discover how she is supporting the sustainable development of communities on the island through her ecotourism business.

Ally Dragozet of Sea Going Green discusses the devastating effects of plastic pollution and climate change on our oceans, and how the tourism industry can help to reverse the damage through responsible travel practices.

John Strelecky, author of The Why Café and The Big Five for Life, on why it is so important to find your purpose of existing, and how it can lead to success.

Judith Walls, Professor and Chair (Sustainability Management) at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland, in this interview shares her thoughts on sustainability leadership, business challenges and the tourism dilemma. This is the first of a series of interviews with inspirational leaders from academia, business or the arts whose work might not directly be focused […]

Alex Pastollnigg on how she is promoting sustainable tourism and responsible travel as impact entrepreneur and through her company, Fair Voyage.

Christian Baumgartner shares how he got involved with sustainable tourism research and consulting, which challenges the European Alps are currently facing and which businesses and destinations in the region are championing sustainability.

Linda Veråsdal on ethical travel, being a responsible tourism business in times of crisis, and the potential of The Gambia as a destination for transformative, adventure travel.

Elisa Spampinato on community-based tourism in Brazil and how travel businesses, communities and destinations are coping with the coronavirus pandemic.

Shannon Stowell on why adventure tourism is an opportunity for achieving sustainable destinations and what lies ahead for the adventure travel industry, post the coronavirus pandemic.

Carla Danelutti illustrates how the IUCN promotes ecotourism and conservation for sustainable regional development in the Mediterranean.

Willem Niemeijer on the current challenges in elephant conservation in Asia, solutions to counter overtourism, and strategy advice for newbies in the sustainable tourism business.

Ishita Khanna illustrates the initiatives undertaken by Ecosphere to uplift the lives of communities in the remote Himalayan alpine valley of Spiti through homestays and community-based tourism.

Lucy McCombes on sustainable travel research, the MSc in Responsible Tourism Management at Leeds Beckett University in the UK, and developing community-based tourism in The Gambia.

Jake Haupert introduces us to the idea of transformational travel and shares why and how it will revolutionize tourism as we know it.

Costas Christ reflects on the very beginnings of the ecotourism movement, how it became all about sustainable tourism, and what the future of responsible travel might look like.

Audrey Scott of Uncornered Market shares her thoughts on sustainable tourism development strategies and the role of social media influencers in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic.

Goverdhan Rathore shares how, together with his father and friends he has been protecting the tiger population in Ranthambore National Park, and why India urgently needs a sustainability strategy for its tourism development.

Manav Khanduja explains how locals are key to conserving forests and wildlife, and what Pugdundee Safaris is doing to cope with the current lockdown provoked by the coronavirus.

Anne de Jong shares how tour operators are embracing sustainability and how she helps contribute towards a more responsible travel industry.

Professor David Simmons of Lincoln University in New Zealand on how destinations like Aotearoa will recover from the coronavirus pandemic, and which sustainable tourism topics we should prioritize now.

Lisa Choegyal discusses how the coronavirus pandemic is challenging tourism in Nepal but also presenting a unique opportunity to promote sustainability and responsible travel.

Amran Hamzah discusses the current state of community-based tourism in Malaysia, and how the travel industry should use COVID-19 for building resilience.

Manal Kelig on Muslim-friendly travel as opportunity, sustainable tourism challenges in the MENA region and how tourism businesses and entrepreneurs can make the most of the current coronavirus situation.

Brett Tollman of The Travel Corporation (TTC) discusses the importance of sustainability in tourism, and how his company helps to advance it, via the TreadRight Foundation.

Roi Ariel of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council explains why sustainable travel should be a top priority, especially in cities, and shares examples of destinations in Asia doing wonders with their sustainability practices.

Marcus Cotton shares valuable insights on how to run an ecolodge in the Himalayas, why staff and local community are among the most important, and how not to waste the opportunities which come with every crisis.

Anna Spenceley in this interview shares insights from her work as sustainable tourism consultant and her experiences of helping organisations, destinations and tourism businesses around the world to become more sustainable.

Jeremy Sampson of the Travel Foundation illustrates how we can reduce the invisible burden of traditional forms of tourism, and how locals and the environment can benefit from sustainable tourism.

Interview with Julian Matthews on tiger conservation in India and how nature tourism is helping the country's villages and rural communities achieve sustainable livelihoods.

Jens Thraenhart of the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office in this interview shares his destination marketing experience and his thoughts on responsible tourism development in the Mekong region in Asia.

How Muna Haddad works towards helping local communities benefit from the visitor economy of a booming Jordan tourism, by setting up rural businesses.

Jeremy Smith discusses how small but significant changes in the way we travel can bring positive influence and a transformative change at a time when the climate emergency is getting more serious.

Lanzarote has been on my wishlist of places to visit for quite some time. Not just because of its very unique volcanic landscape, laid-back culture and brilliant wines. Also because Lanzarote has made itself a name as a destination which cares about sustainability and has – to a large degree – managed to sustain its […]

Antje Monshausen in this interview discusses the need for strategic dialogue between all the stakeholders for a more sustainable tourism development.

In this interview with Manisha Pande, learn how rural tourism can bring about a positive change in the lives of local communities and get valuable insights on how to run a village tourism enterprise.

Kirsi Hyvaerinen reflects on her many years of experience working at the coalface of sustainable tourism, illustrates how sustainability has moved from niche subject to mainstream concern and emphasizes the importance of accountability and transparency.

Nicolas Dubrocard in this interview takes us behind the scenes of elephant camps and wildlife tourism in South East Asia. Learn why elephant camps are not per se bad, and how to choose the right one for enriching encounters.

Christof Burgbacher in this interview discusses the importance of social sustainability and shares his experience of working with a leading sustainable hotel company in Costa Rica. Also: the current state of tourism sustainability in Morocco - the challenges and opportunities.

Interview with Hans Pfister on how Cayuga Collection hotels embrace sustainability and empower staff and local communities in Costa Rica, Central America and beyond.

Kaspar Howald, Director of Valposchiavo Turismo, in this interview shares the story of "100% Valposchiavo" - how it started and what's next for this popular alpine destination in the very south east of Switzerland.

The Romantik Hotel Muottas Muragl near St Moritz in the Engadin, Switzerland, is well known as a pioneer in sustainability in the alpine region. Anne-Pierre Ackermann tells us how they do it, where the challenges are and why tourism businesses must now take sustainability seriously.

Potjana Suansri on how to succeed with community-based tourism, offering insights and learnings from her work in Thailand, Myanmar and The Gambia.

Meet Professor Dr. Willy Legrand: discover his motivations, experiences and priorities in our in-depth interview, check out his sustainable hospitality research and publications, or book him as a speaker for your event.

Simon Louvard in this interview introduces us to his start-up Lodg'ing, shares his experiences as entrepreneur and his thoughts on ecotourism in France.

Dieter Mueller, managing director of Parc Ela in Eastern Switzerland, on how the destination promotes sustainable tourism, connects with stakeholders and prepares for the growing interest in sustainability among travelers.

Vicky Smith: responsible tourism networker and entrepreneur by heart. In this interview, learn about her new initiative Earth Changers, what she thinks about the current state of tourism sustainability and how to use social media and influencers for better tourism business and destination marketing.

Domenico Saladino, hotel sustainability advisor and certification specialist, in this interview shares tips on how to run a hotel sustainably, explains how sustainability certifications work and shares his views on the broader trends likely to impact the hotel business in Switzerland.

Dereck Joubert, award-winning filmmaker, founder and CEO of Great Plains Conservation, shares his experience of running a responsible tour business based on wildlife conservation in Africa.

Evarist March Sarlat of NaturalWalks in Catalonia, Spain, on what makes a great tour guide, why tour guides are so important for promoting a more sustainable tourism and how he is working with world's best chefs to raise awareness about the edible treasures hidden around us, in nature.

Ellie Cleary of Soul Travel Blog & Consulting in this interview discusses latest trends in responsible travelling and gives tips and inspiration how to travel more consciously and responsibly. 

Schweizerhof Lenzerheide in Graubünden, Switzerland, is well known within Swiss hospitality circles. Not just because it is among the most highly rated by guests, but also because it has over the years managed to implement and integrate sustainability into all aspects of its operations and guest experience. Hotel manager Claudia Züllig in this interview tells us how they do it.

Mariglo (Marigs) Laririt, head of sustainability at El Nido Resorts in the Philippines, in this interview illustrates how the award-winning resort approaches sustainability - the challenges (such as climate change, supply chain, government), trends and opportunities of running a sustainable business.

How to run a sustainable restaurant? Vassily Katsoupas of the acclaimed restaurant Kanela & Garyfallo in Greece in this interview shares his experience and tells us how we can eat better and enjoy more responsibly.

Silvia Barbone of JLag in this interview discusses the sometimes difficult but important task of securing adequate funding for sustainable tourism projects, with a focus on Europe and European Union policies and regulations.

Interview with Craig Wickham of Exceptional Kangaroo Island tours on wildlife conservation, small business sustainability challenges and ecotourism in Australia.

Theodota Nantsou, head of policy at WWF Greece, in this interview discusses the sustainability challenges Greece needs to confront as destination. She also outlines some of the opportunities which should be seized, such as bringing new life to abandoned rural villages, through tourism.

Professor Vik Nair in this interview takes us around The Bahamas, discusses the destination's tourism sustainability issues, the potential of community-based tourism and shares his thoughts on research topics in need of investigation.

Aivar Ruukel in this interview discusses how ecotourism has developed in Estonia, the role of ICT for the work of small tour operators, and what it takes to become a great tour guide.

Mike McHugo tells the story of the Kasbah du Toubkal ecolodge and community tourism initiative in the Atlas mountains, Morocco. He tells us how, together with his brother and Hajj Maurice, he started the project, which challenges they've had to address and how they have been able to help the local berber community along the way.

Professor Tanja Mihalič of the Institute for Tourism at the University of Ljubljana in this interview shares her experience researching and promoting sustainable tourism in Slovenia. She also points out research priorities and how Slovenia has developed as a "green" destination.

Soča Valley in Slovenia is a destination well known among adventure travelers. Janko Humar in this interview shares the destination's story, its challenges and opportunities. The interview is part of a special series with Slovenian sustainable tourism pioneers and changemakers.

Slovenia's first organic farm certified as a responsible accommodation provider: Urška is a special place and project. In this interview, Urška Topolšek Planinšek takes us on a tour around the farm and family business.

Tour guides are often overlooked in the discussion about how we can promote and ensure a more sustainable tourism industry and responsible tourism practices. Maja Čampelj of G-Guides in Slovenia is on a mission to change this.

Podčetrtek in Slovenia: a destination leading in sustainability. Boštjan Misja in this interview shares the story and illustrates how they do it - the challenges and achievements.

José Koechlin von Stein in this interview takes us on a journey through history, explaining how Inkaterra hotels in Peru have been working over many years to combine responsible entrepreneurship with biodiversity conservation and community well-being.

Felipe Vera Soto in this interview introduces us to sustainable tourism initiatives in Chile and explains how the award-winning community of Natales in Southern Chile approaches destination sustainability.

Benjamin Lephilibert wasn't always into sustainability, but things changed when he took on a position at a hotel in Bangkok. Since then he's been on a mission to help hotels become more sustainable, an despecially to reduce their food waste. More in this interview.

Marina Novelli, Professor of Tourism and International Development at the University of Brighton in the UK, in this interview shares her thoughts on the current state of (sustainable) tourism development in Africa, the issue of overtourism and other topics in need of investigation.

Joao Ministro in this interview shares his experience of working in rural development and responsible tourism in the Algarve region of Portugal.

Dr Peter Brandauer in this interview illustrates how the small alpine community of Werfenweng in Austria uses soft mobility accross the tourism destination.

Reto Fry in this interview introduces us to the "Greenstyle" sustainability strategy of Weisse Arena Group in Laax, Switzerland.

Urs Wohler, former director of destination Scuol Sammaun Val Müstair in Switzerland, on why political leadership is key for destination sustainability.

Theo Schnider of UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch near Lucerne, Switzerland, shares his experience of developing, managing and promoting a sustainable destination.

Benoit Greindl, co-founder of the mountain retreat Montagne Alternative in Switzerland, on transformational experiences, resilience and sustainability in tourism.

Interview with Olivier Cheseaux of Anakolodge in Switzerland, on how innovative architecture and smart ways of using sharing platforms like Airbnb can contribute to sustainable destinations.

Lukas Stadtherr of SwitzerlandMobility (SchweizMobil) in this interview tells us how the network promotes car-free travel in the country.

Fredi Gmür, CEO of Swiss Youth Hostels, on how the award-winning organization in Switzerland has made sustainability a core part of its business model.

Martin Nydegger, Director of Switzerland Tourism, shares how the country markets its destinations and how Switzerland approaches tourism sustainability.

Ross Dowling, Foundation Professor of Tourism at Edith Cowan University in Australia, shares his thoughts on geotourism, the cruise industry and destination sustainability.

Vincent Fonvieille of the French tour operator La Balaguère reflects on his entrepreneurial journey so far, and discusses the business challenges and trends impacting his destination, the Pyrenees.

Rachel Vaughan in this interview shares how the small coastal town of Kaikoura in New Zealand approaches destination sustainability.

Marta Mills in this interview discusses destination management, marketing and sustainable tourism challenges in the Caucasus region, especially Georgia.

Michael Dodds shares his thoughts on destination sustainability strategies, challenges and opportunities in Normandy and Brittany (France).

Martha (Pati) Ruiz Corzo's story is that of a women who does not tire to reconnect her people with the land they depend on. In this interview she tells us how she uses conservation and tourism as tools for a sustainable development of the Sierra Gorda in Mexico.

Karmen Mentil, Director of Alpine Pearls, in this interview shares her experience of developing, managing and marketing sustainable tourist destinations in the European Alps.

Maja Pak in this interview shares the impressive story of Slovenia, a destination firmly committed to sustainability and which, over the years, has built a strong track record in promoting responsible tourism through its destination marketing organization.

Kathleen Pittman, Director of Strategic Partnerships at the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, in this interview reflects on her work at the GSTC. She also shares how - faced with reputational and quality issues - more and more tourism businesses and destinations now actively engage with sustainability.

Adama Bah in this interview shares his experience of promoting responsible tourism practices in The Gambia and West Africa. He tells us why he decided to focus his career on tourism sustainability.

Judy Kepher-Gona in this interview shares her experience as ecotourism consultant and tourism business advisor in Kenya, Africa. Learn about destination sustainability challenges, how to engage business and political leaders, and why destination marketing and branding can both promote and inhibit sustainable tourism.

Rika Jean-François, in charge of corporate social responsibility and sustainable tourism programming at ITB Berlin, in this interview shares her thoughts on the way ahead for sustainability in tourism: the key topics, trends and challenges.

Mary Mulvey in this interview shares her experience of setting up EcoTourism Ireland, aimed at promoting responsible tourism in Ireland.

Michaela Reitterer of Boutiquehotel Stadthalle in Vienna, Austria, in this interview tells us why her award-winning hotel focuses on sustainability, and how this commitment is paying off.

Wolfgang Strasdas, Professor of Sustainable Tourism at the Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development near Berlin in Germany, in this interview shares his thoughts on responsible tourism developments and trends in Germany, Europe and beyond.

Katie Hallaran introduces us to the Soksabike and Kinyei Café projects in Battambang, Cambodia. She explains how the pioneering responsible tourism businesses are creating employment for the local youth, and at the same time unforgettable, authentic travel experiences.

Jamie Sweeting in this interview shares his thoughts on the future of responsible travel - trends, challenges and strategies. He also discusses overtourism and illustrates how Planeterra Foundation helps tourism entrepreneurs and communities to gain access to the growing responsible travel market.

Raj Gyawali on how his tour business socialtours in Nepal approaches sustainability, the responsible tourism development challenges in Nepal, and how the NepalNOW campaign helped the mountain destination after the 2015 earthquake.

Grootbos Nature Reserve Director Michael Lutzeyer explains how the luxury destination in South Africa approaches sustainability through progressive tourism.

Jana Apih of GoodPlace in Ljubljana discusses the sustainable tourism strategy of Slovenia and how the country has become a leading sustainable destination.

Dave van Smeerdijk tells us how the African safari and wildlife tour operator Asilia Africa approaches sustainability through commercial conservation.

How to run a responsible wildlife tour business in Africa? Dorian Hoy tells us how Botswana-based Great Plains Conservation supports wildlife protection through responsible tourism.

Jonathon Day, Associate Professor at Purdue University in the United States, discusses sustainability trends and challenges at destinations, and the future of sustainable tourism research.

Carol Gleeson, manager of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark in Ireland, discusses sustainable destination strategies, successes and challenges.

Meet James Crockett of Jus' Sail. Learn how the responsible boat tour operator with base in St Lucia, the Caribbean, approaches sustainability and how local youth benefit from the company's commitment to sustainable tourism.

Janne Liburd of the University of Southern Denmark discusses trends and challenges in tourism higher education, and illustrates how sustainable development is at the core of the destination management strategy of the Wadden Sea National Park.

Michel Awad, director of the Siraj Center, reflects on the challenges and progresses of responsible tourism development in Palestine.

Julien Buot of French organisation Agir pour un Tourisme Responsable (ATR) discusses responsible tourism actors, initiatives and trends in France. Learn which French destinations lead in sustainability.

Alexandre Tsuk, founder and CEO of hotel community and booking platform BookGreener.com, shares his thoughts on tourism sustainability in Bali, and offers insights into travel trends in Asia.

Anna Alaman in this interview introduces us to the Open Eyes project in India and explains how the social business is creating employment for blind and visually impaired women, responsible tourism opportunities and unforgettable, authentic travel experiences.

Alex van den Heever in this interview introduces us to the ancient art of wildlife tracking and explains how Tracker Academy creates employment and ecotourism opportunities in South Africa.

Frank Oostdam, director and president of the Dutch Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (ANVR), discusses trends in the travel business, sustainability challenges such as overtourism, and award-winning carbon emissions measurement tool Carmacal.

Gianna Moscardo, Professor at James Cook University in Townsville, Australia, in this interview reflects on sustainable tourism, overtourism, academic research priorities and the BEST EN network.

Tricia Barnett in this interview reflects on her many years of work experience with Tourism Concern, dedicated to campaigning for human rights and gender equality in tourism.

Mariana Madureira in this interview shares her experience as social entrepreneur in Brazil, and reflects on the country's tourism sustainability challenges.

Lonneke de Kort of the hotel booking website BookDifferent.com shares her experience and thoughts on OTAs, hotel bookings and destination sustainability.

Meet Carole Favre, sustainable tourism advisor and facilitator. Learn about her hopes and challenges and why, despite serious setbacks, she has never given up to believe in the future and to realize her dreams.

Maria Lougari, Managing Director of Castelli Hotel on Zakynthos Island in Greece tells us about the hotel's award-winning sustainability strategy.

Catalina Alemany, CSR Manager at RIU Hotels & Resorts in Spain tells us about the hotel chain's sustainability ambitions, strategy and challenges.

Urša Malovrh, Manager of Hotel Park in Ljubljana, Slovenia, outlines the hotels' sustainability strategy and how it works with the local community.

Angelique Tonnaer Kırkıl on the Travelife sustainability management scheme, working with hotels in Antalya, and the main tourism sustainability challenges Turkey faces as tourist destination.

Asma Rasheed, Director of Business Development at Kuramathi Island Resort in the Maldives, discusses the resort's sustainability initiatives and challenges.

Antonia del Toro, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Grupo Piñero in Spain, about implementing and monitoring sustainability initiatives for Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts.

Coro Ruiz Santamaria, in charge of sustainability at ILUNION Hotels, talks about her experience in implementing sustainability for the Spanish hotel group.

Hitesh Mehta, world-renown Kenyan landscape architect and landscape designer, on holistic architecture, ecolodge design and tourism sustainability.

Geotourism and destination stewardship are the focus of this interview with Jonathan Tourtellot, former editor of National Geographic Traveler magazine.

Shannon Guihan on tourism sustainability in Canada and the USA, and how to deal with destination overcrowding.

Gavin Bate shares his adventure travel and sustainability story. Learn about his professional insights, challenges and responsible tourism successes.

Bruce Poon Tip on what got him interested in tourism and sustainability, why he founded G Adventures, and the purpose of Planeterra Foundation.

Graham Miller of Surrey University on sustainable destinations and how his view on tourism and sustainability has changed over time.

Kelly Bricker shares her thoughts on tourism, sustainability and reflects on her work with The International Ecotourism Society (TIES).

Amine Ahlafi on his sustainable architecture firm 2d Dama and how the Mohammed VI Foundation works to enhance the sustainability of tourism in Morocco.

Richard Hammond, CEO of Greentraveller, tells us about his website, media consultancy, and shares his thoughts on communicating sustainability.

Richard Butler, Professor Emeritus of Tourism at University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, looks critically at the realities of sustainability in the tourism industry and of tourism education.

From education to business consulting, Rebecca Hawkins has been helping shape the sustainable tourism industry for almost twenty years.

Peter Richards tells us how he helped to develop community-based, responsible tourism in Myanmar and Thailand.

Interview with Sri Lanka Ecotourism Foundation president Palitha Gurusinghe on the current state of tourism development and sustainability in Sri Lanka.

Ary Suhandi, Executive Director of the Indonesian Ecotourism Network (INDECON), shares his insights on tourism development in Indonesia.

South East Asia ecotourism expert Agha Iqrar Haroon on sustainable tourism development in Pakistan.

Albert Teo in this interview explains the sustainability strategies of his ecolodge and tour business in Borneo, Malaysia, and discusses sustainable tourism development challenges in South-East Asia.

Fran Hughes, Director of the International Tourism Partnership, shares her insights on the challenges and changes taking place in the tourism industry.

Interview with Asia ecotourism expert and tourism professor Alan Wong on sustainable tourism development in Hong Kong, China, Asia Pacific.

Ariane Janer, co-founder of GEN, EcoBrasil and owner of Bromelia, shares her insights on sustainable tourism, conservation and ecotourism in Brazil.

Interview with ecotourism expert Sheikh Md. Monzurul Huq on community tourism and sustainable tourism development challenges in Bangladesh, Asia.

Gracie Geikie in this interview discusses the current state of ecotourism development in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo and the wider South-East Asia region.

Our interview with Glenn Jampol, artist, founding member of the Global Ecotourism Network and owner of two of Costa Rica's most successful eco-resorts.

Mihee Kang, Seoul research professor, discusses ecotourism, sustainable development of tourism in South Korea and Asia, and her PlayForest initiative.

Karma Tshering discusses sustainable tourism in Bhutan and how tourism and sustainability impact the country's Gross National Happiness.

Meet Beatriz Barreal of Sustainable Riviera Maya: sustainability visionary from Mexico, renowned for her advocacy in sustainable tourism and Mayan communities.

Gopinath Parayil, The Blue Yonder, discusses responsible tourism business and sustainable development in India. Part of our Asian Ecotourism Leaders series.

Geoffrey Wall, Geography Professor at University of Waterloo in Canada, discusses sustainable tourism development and the realities of tourism academia.

Soulinnara Ratanavong, Lao National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality, on sustainable tourism education in Laos and the Asian Ecotourism Network.

Albert Salman introduces the Green Destinations initiative and discusses what it takes to make a destination truly sustainable.

Tony Charters, Founding Director of Ecotourism Australia, discusses sustainable tourism development in Asia and the Asia-Pacific region.

Susan Santos de Cárdenas, Asian Ecotourism Network, on sustainable tourism in the Philippines and the tourism strategy of the The Coron Initiative.

Interview with Griffith University Tourism Research Professor David Weaver on 'enlightened mass tourism', research priorities, the Gold Coast in Australia and the current state of sustainable tourism research around the world.

Learn about the current state of sustainable tourism development in Latin America in this interview with Eduard Mueller, University for International Collaboration.

Short interview with Professor Jafar Jafari, pioneering tourism academic and researcher, on sustainable tourism development, Iran and more.

Anna Pollock in this interview talks about her website Conscious Travel, the current state of sustainable tourism and the challenges that lie ahead.

An oasis of tranquility founded by five friends 30 years ago, Lurdeia Casa Rural is a pioneer in ecotourism and organic farming in the Basque Country. This rural home is a great example of how a local business can balance nature and economic development, combining the benefits of sustainable development, eco-certification and environmental education. Josu tells us how it all began.

Agroturismo Arkaia is a shining example of sustainability leadership in the Basque Country, excelling in accessible tourism. Just outside the city borders of Vitoria-Gasteiz and part of the city’s impressive Anillo Verde (Green Belt), the skillfully renovated farmhouse Agroturismo Arkaia is the work of Ángeles Arroyo Sánchez and her family. In this interview, Ángeles discusses their road to certification and why eco-certification should be a goal for all tourism businesses.

Las Casas de EA Astei is a rural home in the Basque Country that is taking energy efficiency to the next level. This is the success story of both Mertxe Begiristain, who manages the tourism business, and her son, whose architecture, design and engineering skills have led to the creation of the first home in Spain to produce more energy than it consumes. Built primarily out of biodegradable, renewable and ecological materials, this rural home seeks maximum integration with its surrounding environment.

Meet Jane Ashton, Director of Sustainable Development at TUI Group, world's largest travel company: learn about TUI's sustainability challenges and successes.

Carlos Sandoval, owner and manager of Yacutinga Eco-Lodge in Argentina, in this interview tells us why and how he built the remote eco-lodge, and how the Rainforest Alliance has helped him tackle sustainability challenges.

Paul Peeters, Director of the Center for Sustainable Tourism and Transport, discusses the issue of tourism transportation and its effect on climate change.

Interview with Martha Honey on her work at the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST) in the USA and sustainable tourism priorities.

Tourism consultant Paul Rogers shares his thoughts on the sustainable tourism development in Myanmar and reflects on his professional journey.

Few professional stories are as intriguing as that of sustainable business 'guru' John Elkington, founder of SustainAbility & Volans. More in this interview.

For a view of sustainable tourism from an innovator in the private sector, we bring you this interview with Ignasi Uñó Pérez, CEO and Co-founder of Twentytú Hi-tech Hostel Barcelona, a hotel certified by Biosphere and part of the Barcelona Sustainable Tourism network.

Park Güell is a tourist attraction wandering and struggling between the benefits and issues brought by mass tourism in Barcelona. Mayra Nieto Magaldi, in this interview tells us about the sustainability strategies implemented at this popular tourist attraction.

Xavier Suñol Ferrer, Head of Strategic Projects at Barcelona City Council’s Tourism Department, in this interview explains the city’s vision and strategic plan for tourism development.

Creating your own company following your passion for environmental science isn’t easy, explains Nuria Chacón in this interview. Learn how, together with her partner Alberto González, she is promoting ecotourism in Cuenca, Spain.

Tomás Azcárate of the Responsible Tourism Institute in Spain (Instituto de Turismo Responsable) reflects on sustainable tourism development and key players.

Professor Geoffrey Lipman in this interview shares insights and experiences from his long career dedicated to tourism, green growth and travel.

Hospitality consultant Daniel Frey shares useful tips in this interview: such as how to choose the right tourism sustainability certification.

Meet Louise Twining-Ward, former CEO of Sustainable Travel International. Learn about destination sustainability challenges and solutions, and her key professional insights from her long career dedicated to sustainable tourism advocacy.

Guillaume Cromer, Managing Director of ID Tourism consultancy discusses sustainability trends and sustainable tourism development in France.

Omali Lodge is the intriguing story of a hotel whose dedication to sustainability and best practice isn´t hampered by a lack of awareness in its immediate surroundings. The lodge was our first stop during our destination visit of São Tomé and Príncipe, and our first hotel experience in Africa.

Interview with Philippe Moreau on developing Príncipe island in Western Africa as sustainable destination: His vision, challenges and achievements so far.

Bom Bom Island Resort is the heart and soul of destination Príncipe. The hotel is the first in Africa to obtain the Biosphere certification for hotels, awarded under the auspices of the Instituto de Turismo Responsable (ITR). During our stay, we had the chance to talk to Sérgio Duarte, the resort’s general manager.

While visiting a destination and exploring new places is fun, what really intrigues us are the stories of a place’s residents, entrepreneurs and, since we are covering sustainable tourism leadership, those shakers and doers who make things happen: who put policy and words into practice. On Príncipe Island, West Africa’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Estrela Matilde, is one of those people. Learn more about her life on Príncipe and her professional experiences in this interview.

In our first sustainable tourism leadership story linked to the destination of Príncipe, Antonio Abreu, tells us how this remote island in West Africa became a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and how the relationship between hosts and tourists impacts a destination.

Nada Roudies, Secretary General of the Morocco Ministry of Tourism, on sustainable tourism development in Morocco and her work for the 10YFP UN programme.

Few sustainable tourism leadership stories are as inspiring as the one of Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort in Queensland, Australia. Intrigued by how much is possible if one man has a vision and follows it through, we were curious to learn more about the person “in charge” on that tiny island located at the southernmost end of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Meet Peter Gash, managing director and leaseholder of Lady Elliot Island, chief pilot and aviation engineer.

Professor Harold Goodwin shares his thoughts on the current state of sustainability in travel and tourism.

Interview with Kauahi Ngapora on how the New Zealand ecotourism operator Whale Watch Kaikoura has successfully made its wildlife tours more sustainable.

Interview with responsible tourism expert Heidi van der Watt on better, sustainable tourism in South Africa: sustainability initiatives, trends, challenges.

How the small family business Whale Watch Hervey Bay in Queensland, Australia, has become an inspiring example of accessible and responsible ecotourism.

Air New Zealand CEO Christopher Luxon in this interview discusses sustainability strategies, challenges and successes at New Zealand's flag carrier.

Interview with Tourism Professor Dagmar Lund-Durlacher of MODUL University in Vienna (Austria) on trends in sustainable tourism research and education

Paul Verity of Sanctuary Retreat Mission Beach takes us on a tour around this Rainforest eco-lodge and yoga retreat in northern Queensland, Australia.

Abdulla Radaideh, Chief Engineer and driving force behind sustainability at Aqaba InterContinental Resort in Jordan, shares his thoughts on hotels, tourism and sustainability.

Antonis Petropoulos, editor of EcoClub.com - portal for ecotourism professionals in Greece, Europe and worldwide - on the current state of sustainable tourism in Greece.

Meet Steve Noakes: a leading sustainable tourism professional with a very comprehensive understanding of sustainable tourism in Asia Pacific.

Meet Eleni Andreadis, Director of Sustainability at Sani Resort in Greece – part of our special interview series with sustainable tourism change makers nominated by Green Key International.

Interview with Monica Chao Janeiro on sustainability challenges and successes at NH Hotels, and the current state of sustainable tourism in Spain.

Ronald Sanabria in this interview discusses sustainable tourism initiatives at Rainforest Alliance and tourism sustainability in Costa Rica.

Stewart Moore in this interview gives an inside view into EarthCheck certification and shares his thoughts on the state of sustainable tourism in Australia.

In this interview with Vicente Ferreyra Acosta of SustenTur, learn about sustainable tourism developments in Latin America and useful advice for more tourism sustainability in Mexico.

Interview with Susanne Becken, Professor of Tourism at Griffith University in Australia, on how her view on sustainability and tourism has changed over the years, how climate change will affect tourism and the connection between tourism and oil.

Eddie Ramirez, owner of Casa Sol B&B in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in this interview shares with us key insights from his remarkable career in hospitality: A truly inspiring story of a professional who followed his ambitions and dreams while staying true to his convictions.

Justin Francis, responsible travel entrepreneur and founder of the World Responsible Tourism Awards, in this interview reflects on his professional career, which started in advertising tobacco and sugary cereals but eventually led him to be one of the most influential leaders of and spokespersons for responsible travel and tourism.

In this interview, hotel manager Nicolas Roucos of Inspira Santa Marta in Lisbon, Portugal, tells us why and how the four-star boutique accommodation put sustainability at the core of its business strategy and operations.

Meet Masaru Takayama, founder of the Asian Ecotourism Network, the Japan Ecolodge Association and owner of Kyoto-based travel agency Spirit of Japan.

Luigi Cabrini, chairman of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and UNWTO advisor, in this interview shares on career highlights and emphasizes the need for more sustainability in travel and tourism.

Meet Isis Anahi De León Hernández and join us on a tour around Dreams Riviera Cancún Resort & Spa Hotel in Mexico, a resort verified by the Rainforest Alliance.

Inge Huijbrechts, Vice President Responsible Business of Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, in this interview tells us about the company's approach to sustainability and its responsible business strategy.

Brian Mullis, founder of Sustainable Travel International in this interview reflects on the over 13 years he dedicated to promoting sustainability across the tourism value chain. He shares his unique and profound perspectives on sustainable tourism, the success stories and challenges.

Interview with Rachel Dodds, sustainable tourism consultant, researcher and Associate Professor at Ryerson University (Ted Rogers School of Management) in Toronto, Canada, where she directs the Hospitality and Tourism Research Institute.

Today, meet Salli Felton, CEO of the Travel Foundation, an independent charity that brings together public, private and third sector tourism stakeholders to develop practical solutions that maximise the benefits and minimise the negative impacts tourism has on destinations.

Torben Kaas, co-founder of the Green Key ecolabel, in this interview tells us about his experience promoting sustainable tourism among hotels in Denmark and later worldwide.

In this interview, Echidna Walkabout Wildlife Tours co-founder and marketing director Janine Duffy tells us how the Melbourne-based ecotourism company's recent responsible tourism award has changed her life and business, lessons she has learned and why social businesses are the way of the future.

Travel and tourism professionals from around the world are headed to Madrid for the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Annual Summit next week. This event is not just for sales and networking, but also to celebrate the winners of the leading accolade in responsible and sustainable tourism – the WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow Awards. In this interview, Fiona Jeffery, award chair, shares her tourism and sustainability story – how it all started, and why she has recently moved from head of WTM to leading the water conservation charity Just a Drop.

In this interview, sustainable tourism consultant and university lecturer Natalia Naranjo shares her experience and thoughts on the current state of sustainability in travel and tourism in Latin America, why she decided to represent Colombia in the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and what Colombia can learn from Canada.

Interview with Erik van Dijk on sustainable hotel and tourism certification program Green Key in The Netherlands, sustainability challenges and solutions.

Discover Megan Epler Wood's journey in pioneering ecotourism, sustainable travel practices, and preserving natural and cultural heritage.

In this interview, Madeline Svelti Diaz, Hygiene and Quality Manager at Dreams Palm Beach Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, shares her sustainability story including her experience with the Rainforest Alliance verification process.

In this interview, D’Arcy Dornan, sustainability and tourism teacher, researcher and consultant, shares his thoughts and expertise on sustainable tourism in Brazil and beyond.

Michael Stober of the award-winning Landgut Stober Business Hotel near Berlin, takes us around Germany's most sustainable private conference hotel and explains its sustainability strategy.

In this interview with Monica Grau, learn how her small family hotel Hostal Grau in Barcelona has become a LEED-certified leader in sustainable hospitality.

In this interview, Florie Thielin, hotel marketing professional and avid traveler hailing from a small village in the Loire Valley in France, tells us about her “HopTour”, her passion for sustainable tourism and Hopineo. She also details her experiences and shares her reflections on what she has learned about sustainable tourism during her travels through Latin America.

Sustainable tourism communication expert Xavier Font reflects on his academic and consulting career, where he sees the main sustainability challenges and opportunities, and how tourism businesses and destinations should (not) communicate their sustainability initiatives.

In this interview, TravelMole sustainable tourism editor Valere Tjolle shares his story of almost 50 years in the tourism business. He also reflects on tourism, sustainability initiatives and why so much still needs to be done.

Randy Durband, CEO of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), shares his thoughts on sustainable tourism, why effective destination management is so important, and why sustainability presents at least as many opportunities as it poses challenges to tourism businesses and destinations.

Tensie Whelan in this interview talks about sustainable tourism challenges and projects in Costa Rica, and why she joined the Rainforest Alliance.

Sylvain Richer de Forges of Siloso Beach Eco Resort on Sentosa Island in Singapore takes us on a tour around the resort and explains its sustainability strategy.

Marina Bay Sands Director of Sustainability, Kevin Teng, tells us about the green initiatives and eco-efficiency measures implemented at the Marina Bay Sands luxury hotel and urban resort in Singapore.

In our interview with Kurt Schmack, owner of Laguna del Lagarto ecolodge in Costa Rica, learn about the ecolodge’s sustainability initiatives, the benefits and challenges of running a hotel sustainably. Kurt also shares useful advice for hotel managers keen to embrace sustainable practices.

Selva Negra Ecolodge in Nicaragua is often referred to as a best practice example for hotel sustainability in a rural setting. In this interview, the ecolodge's manager Karen Kuhl tells us what it takes to run a hotel sustainably and how to make sustainability a business success.

Interview with Christiane Hütte on sustainability strategies, successes and challenges at the small business hotel Villa Orange in downtown Frankfurt, Germany.

Meet Ross Lardner, hostel manager of Sydney Harbour YHA in Australia and the driving force behind the award-winning property's mainy sustainability features. Here’s what Ross had to say about Sydney, sustainability and eco-friendly hostelling.