Madeira renews international certification as a ‘Sustainable Tourism Destination’

Madeira has taken another step in the process of certification as a ‘Sustainable Tourism Destination’ with the renewal of the international certification, which, achieved Level IV of the prestigious Silver seal, awarded by EarthCheck, a world-leading entity in tourism certification and accredited by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

The certificate is already in the possession of the Regional Secretariat for Tourism, Environment and Culture, aiming, from now on, to achieve the Gold level in 2027, as “This renewal reflects the Region’s continuous work in preserving its natural and cultural resources and in balanced economic and social development,” as highlighted by the Tourism authority.

The audit validated the compliance of approximately 361 qualitative criteria and 75 quantitative indicators presented, through the analysis of documentary evidence compiled and processed by the team of the Tourism Qualification Services Directorate, with the assistance of IPDT – Institute for Tourism Development Planning. The model is based on a robust Destination Sustainability Management Structure (DMO), which brings together around 90 local entities organized into Working Groups.

According to Regional Secretary Eduardo Jesus, sustainability is built not only within the Public Administration, but also through the involvement of municipalities, companies, institutions, the scientific community, schools, and citizens themselves, being today an essential condition for the tourism and economic competitiveness of Madeira. Despite the mentioned ambition, growth must imperatively respect the pillars of the Upgrade – Turismo Madeira program, ensuring that the quality of life of those who live here and the quality of the experience of those who visit us go hand in hand.

Find out more here