Every year, Green Destinations publishes a list of the top 100 most sustainable destinations in the world. This year, five Spanish locations have made it to this list. Therefore, they will be able to show off the title of ultimate destination thanks to a sustainable tourism model.
Furthermore, this list aims to recognise the most environmentally and socially friendly tourist destinations around the world. And, the Spanish locations named in 2021 are:
El Berguedà, Terres de l’Ebre and Torroella de Montgrí-L’Estartit (Catalonia)
Located in the north of the province of Barcelona, El Berguedà is on this list for the third time. The municipality works with local businesses to minimise water and energy consumption and promote the local economy. But, just the sight of El Berguedà alone is breathtaking.
Terres de l’Ebre was already recognised by UNESCO in 2013 as a biosphere reserve for its rich landscape and Mediterranean ecosystems with the aim of preserving biodiversity.
Torroella de Montgrí-L’Estartit consists of the villages Torroella de Montgrí and L’Estartit which are located in the province of Girona. Moreover, the municipality has been pursuing a policy for several years to combine tourism with environmental conservation in an appropriate way. L’Estartit in particular has been a popular holiday spot for years because of its sailing and diving opportunities.
The Biosphere Reserve of Menorca (Balearic Islands)
It has been 25 years since Menorca was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Almost half of the Spanish island is forested and various places – such as coasts, lagoons, and dune systems – are protected. Therefore, according to Green Destinations, the island is an exemplary destination in the field of sustainable tourism.
Noja (Cantabria)
Noja is a Municipality in the Cantabria region with an area of 9 km² and around 2,000 inhabitants. However, it is not the first time this destination has been in the top 100 of Green Destinations. Also, three-quarters of the surface of Noja is now protected.
How is top-100 determined by Green Destinations?
Initially, local authorities can register their destination with Green Destinations. Then, after which a jury assesses the location on various points. This top 100 was compiled for the seventh time, with this year paying extra attention to innovative and effective initiatives that provide a boost to tourism with maximum respect for residents and the environment.
In the coming year, the five destinations mentioned will be allowed to use and promote the logo as a Green Destination on their website and social media channels. The destinations are also included in the Green Destinations Good Travel Guide.
