Preferred by Nature’s Certification for Sustainable Travel Activities earns Travalyst’s sustainability recognition

The Travalyst coalition, launched in 2019 by Prince Harry, recently revealed its first list of 49 sustainability certifications for the accommodation sector, including Preferred by Nature's Certification for Sustainable Travel Activities. 

The initiative aims to simplify the complex world of sustainability certifications, making it easier for consumers, businesses, and booking platforms to identify credible eco-friendly travel options.  

“We’re working to make things simpler and easier to navigate.” 

Sally Davey, CEO of Travalyst

There are numerous certification bodies, and this can be overwhelming, not just for travellers but also for accommodation providers and booking platforms, Sally shared. 

Travalyst’s Certification Initiative seeks to improve the credibility and consistency of sustainability certifications within the travel industry. It’s supported by some prominent travel and technology sector players like Amadeus, Booking.com, Expedia Group, Google, Mastercard, Sabre, Skyscanner, Travelport, Trip.com Group, Tripadvisor and Visa. 

By defining clear, transparent criteria, the initiative promotes the adoption of responsible travel practices that are easy for both businesses and travellers to understand.

The initiative sets specific criteria for certifications, including (1) Third-party audit that includes on-site and/or remote online assessment of sustainable practices reported by the property. (2) Publicly available standards upon which the certification is based. (3) Focuses on evaluating the impact of social and/or economic, and/or environmental factors, among others, as encompassed within, but not restricted, to the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals. 

Travalyst reviews certifications against these criteria and periodically updates its publicly accessible list of approved certifications. This list serves as a reference point for Travalyst's partners, the broader industry, and travellers to make informed travel choices and decisions. The resource also promotes industry-wide alignment on sustainability. 

Preferred by Nature Certification for Sustainable Travel Activities supports tourism businesses in adopting responsible management practices. By aligning with Travalyst Criteria, the certification strengthens its role as a reliable guideline for businesses committed to sustainability, ultimately protecting and conserving biodiversity, and cultural heritage and improving the welfare of local communities.

Saúl Blanco Sosa, Director of the Sustainable Travel Programme at Preferred by Nature, expressed excitement over the achievement, “This achievement validates our ongoing efforts to promote sustainable travel practices and provide travellers with a curated list of committed travel companies that contribute to the well-being of both people and the planet”. 

“As travellers increasingly seeking the responsible and ethical travel experiences, this collaboration will provide a clear and reliable benchmark for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability”, added Saúl. 

Being a part of the Travalyst certifications initiative, confirms Preferred by Nature as a reliable source of reference for sustainable and transparent travel services.  This recognition not only benefits conscious travellers but also sets a high standard for businesses striving to meet global sustainability expectations.

To learn more about the Preferred by Nature Sustainable Travel Programme and its certification requirements, please click here.