Sustainable tourism prioritized in the Philippines and Southeast Asia

Travel is changing, and sustainability is becoming essential for the future of tourism. Ms. Susan Santos de Cárdenas is a leading advocate in this area. She is the President and CEO of the Society for Sustainable Tourism in the Philippines and Southeast Asia and works with Green Destinations. Ms. de Cárdenas has experience in ten countries, from South Korea to Indonesia, and has lived in Japan and Peru. She collaborates with over 75 organizations to develop resilient tourism practices that can withstand climate and economic challenges. The Green Destinations programs focus on six main themes to support sustainability. They align with global goals and emphasize environmental, social, and governance principles. The aim is to engage governments, businesses, and local communities to create long-lasting changes. Through training and promotion, the program helps tourism businesses shift towards responsible models. Stories of successful sustainable practices are also highlighted. For example, some coastal communities have protected mangrove forests, which helped them during super typhoons. These examples show that sustainability is not only ethical but also economically beneficial. Many destinations are adopting Green Destinations standards, realizing that sustainability can lead to long-term profits. Reducing waste and energy use is financially smart for businesses, and local governments see regenerative growth as valuable. The goal is clear: tourism must enhance and protect the places people love. By promoting responsible tourism, Ms. de Cárdenas and her organization are working towards a future where communities, businesses, and travelers support the health of our planet, Earth. Local governments and the private tourism sector are called to lead in this effort, aiming for a balance between people, planet, and prosperity.