Applications are open for the Europe and India editions of the 2025 Responsible Tourism Awards, with a submission deadline of 30 June. These awards, part of a globally recognised series, aim to spotlight and celebrate initiatives that are actively improving the tourism sector.
Presented recently at the LATA Sustainability Conference in Latin America and earlier this year at WTM Africa, the awards are a key component of the International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT)’s mission to support sustainable development in travel.
Seeking demonstrable change
The organisers seek evidence-backed examples of effective, innovative practices that are improving tourism for local communities, the environment, and travellers. The awards favour initiatives that can be replicated and scaled across other regions and contexts.
The awards are open to organisations of all sizes, including small, micro, and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs), with no entry fee to ensure accessibility. A public explanation is always provided to justify the recognition of winners.
“An explicit commitment to Responsible Tourism isn’t required to win. What matters is tangible action and proven results,” said the organisers.
Award structure and global recognition
Winners are classified under three tiers: Gold, Silver, and “One to Watch.” Gold winners automatically qualify for the Global Responsible Tourism Awards, sponsored by Sabre. Silver is reserved for runners-up, while the “One to Watch” accolade identifies initiatives that show significant promise but require further development and evidence of impact.
How to participate?
Next week, those being recognised in the Southeast Asia awards will be published. Details of all five regional awards, entry forms, categories and those recognised in 2025, can be found online. The Europe Awards and the India Awards are open until 30 June. Obviously, only those who enter can be recognised, consider entering and encourage others who you think are worthy of recognition for making tourism better.
Why organisations enter
Entries come from organisations for a variety of reasons. Glynn O’Leary of Transfrontier Parks Destinations, for example, participates to benchmark their practices and acknowledge the efforts of staff and partners.
Beyond recognition, entrants benefit from third-party validation, increased credibility, and the opportunity to inspire others within their industry. For many, the awards also serve as a platform to demonstrate responsibility and transparency to local authorities, neighbouring communities, and business partners.
The Responsible Tourism Awards, long established and backed by a reputation for independence and rigour, continue to play a vital role in shaping a more responsible global travel industry.
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