Region ‘Sustainable Tourist Destination’ – Case Study

The Autonomous Region of Madeira has renewed its certification as a ‘Sustainable Tourist Destination’, achieving the 2nd level of the silver certification, by EarthCheck, a world-leading organisation in sustainable tourism, accredited by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. This recognition has been highlighted on the EarthCheck website and was also mentioned in the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Newsletter. The certification demonstrates Madeira’s commitment to protecting its environment, cultural, social and economic heritage and is seen as an important milestone for the region.

Stewart Moore, from EarthCheck, emphasised that Madeira’s certification proves that the region is serious about adopting sustainable practices, saying that this recognition validates Madeira’s efforts to promote genuinely sustainable tourism experiences. Moore also emphasised that EarthCheck’s independent audits have verified and authenticated the actions implemented by Madeira, confirming the positive impact they have had on the destination’s sustainability.

The Regional Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Culture, Eduardo Jesus, emphasised the importance of Madeira’s certification as a ‘Sustainable Tourist Destination’ once again receiving international attention. According to him, this differentiating process not only brings direct benefits to the destination, but also serves as an international ‘case study’, demonstrating that Madeira is following an exemplary path in terms of sustainable tourism.

The Regional Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Culture, Eduardo Jesus, emphasised the importance of Madeira’s certification as a ‘Sustainable Tourist Destination’ once again receiving international attention. According to him, this differentiating process not only brings direct benefits to the destination, but also serves as an international ‘case study’, demonstrating that Madeira is following an exemplary path in terms of sustainable tourism.

Madeira’s certification process is being led by the Regional Secretariat for the Economy, Tourism and Culture, through the Regional Tourism Directorate, more specifically the Tourism Qualification Services Directorate. For the development of this project, the region has the assistance of IPDT – Institute for Tourism Planning and Development, with EarthCheck being the entity responsible for the c. This partnership has been essential in ensuring that Madeira continues to follow the best practices in sustainable tourism, consolidating its place as a world-class tourist destination.

To summarise, Madeira’s certification as a ‘Sustainable Tourist Destination’ is a recognition of the region’s ongoing work to promote responsible and sustainable tourism, guaranteeing the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage and ensuring that the destination remains attractive for future generations.