Progress in Responsible Tourism in Europe: Breaking Business as Usual
The tourism industry often repeats the same patterns. However, a growing movement is breaking the cycle of “business as usual.” Responsible tourism in Europe is making real progress. For over two decades, the Responsible Tourism Awards have highlighted inspiring examples. These awards showcase businesses and destinations choosing to take responsibility. They prove that sustainable practices are both possible and profitable.
The challenge today is not a lack of solutions. Instead, it is the persistence of outdated habits. Sharing knowledge is key to accelerating change. Therefore, ICRT.global is convening a panel of European changemakers. An upcoming webinar will exchange ideas and showcase proven initiatives. The goal is to move the industry towards more sustainable models.
European Awards Highlight Innovation
The 2025 European Responsible Tourism Awards featured several standout projects. These initiatives deliver measurable impact across the continent. In the all-inclusive category, Club Marvy in Turkey won Gold. Castelli Hotel in Greece received Silver. Club Marvy later went on to win the Global award as well. In waste management, Liberty Fabay in Turkey and Skiathos Palace in Greece both earned Silver awards.
Local sourcing and creating shared value were also celebrated. Emotional Sicily in Italy won Silver. Delphina Hotels and Resorts in Sardinia took Gold and later secured Silver globally. The peace and inclusivity category saw MEJDI Tours win both Gold and the Global award. This company organizes tours in places like Northern Ireland and Bosnia. Via Transilvanica in Romania and Costa Navarino in Greece received Silver awards.
In climate adaptation, Barut Hemera in Turkey received Silver. For nature positive initiatives, UK tour operator Naturetrek won Gold. VisitBrabant in the Netherlands took Silver. These examples show the diverse ways tourism can improve.
How to Get Involved in 2026
Participation in the awards is more than a competition. It is a chance to inspire others across the industry. If organizations do not enter, their achievements stay hidden. Sharing innovation helps spread best practices widely. The 2026 European Responsible Tourism Awards will recognize several key areas. Categories include local economic benefit and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Nature positivity, championing cultural diversity, and adapting to climate change are also featured. Regenerative tourism completes the list of categories. The awards are completely free to enter. Gold winners automatically go forward to the Global Awards in London.
Key dates for 2026 are already set. The awards launched in January. The deadline for entries is April 3, 2026. Winners will be announced in Brussels this June. A webinar on opportunities in responsible tourism will also take place. It happens on Monday, March 16, from 3:00 to 4:00 pm CET. Registration allows participants to watch live or later on demand. By sharing real-world examples, the industry can move forward. Responsible tourism creates better places for people to live in and visit. The progress in Europe offers a powerful blueprint for others to follow.
