Bhutan was honored with the Green Destination’s Silver Award at the ITB Berlin, the largest tourism fair globally, on March 6, 2024. This accolade recognizes outstanding contributions to sustainable tourism, highlighting destination stewardship, inspiring practices, and effective stakeholder management. Previously, in 2019, Bhutan had clinched the Gold Award in the same category.
The selection process was overseen by the International Jury of Experts from Green Destinations Story Awards, evaluating 75 criteria that measure innovation levels and the potential for best practices to be adopted by other countries.
Bhutan’s approach to sustainable tourism, driven by its high value-low volume policy, continues to set a global benchmark. As one of the world’s only carbon-negative countries, Bhutan is lauded for its rigorous conservation efforts and pristine environment, making it one of the most ecologically friendly destinations globally.
This recognition is accredited by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), ensuring adherence to the most stringent standards of transparent, objective, and evidence-based certification.
Since 2014, the Green Destinations Top 100 Story Awards at ITB have highlighted the most inspiring initiatives in sustainable tourism.
Looking ahead, Bhutan remains committed to leading by example in sustainable tourism through innovative policies and governmental interventions across the tourism sector’s value chains. The Silver Award from Green Destinations is not just a testament to Bhutan’s enduring commitment to environmental stewardship but also reaffirms its status as a model for global tourism practices. Under its strong leadership and sound environmental policies, Bhutan continues to pave the way as a premier destination for sustainable tourism.