Tanya Dohoney, a retired attorney from Texas now residing in Paris, has dedicated years to sustainability initiatives. She even spearheaded a recycling program at her workplace. When it comes to travel, Tanya values environmentally and socially responsible companies. This led her to choose Intrepid Travel, a certified B Corp company, for a tour in Morocco in 2019.
The travel and tourism industry has a vast array of sustainability certifications, which can be overwhelming and confusing. Certified B Corp companies adhere to standards set by B Lab, a nonprofit based in Pennsylvania. These companies are recognized for their social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. Achieving this certification can be a lengthy and costly process. Globally, there are only a few certified B Corps in the travel industry.
For Tanya Dohoney, seeing the B Corp logo provides a sense of validation. She is wary of greenwashing but believes it is a step in the right direction. Other travelers share her concerns and are looking for responsible travel options. Many travel operators are pursuing B Corp certification to distinguish themselves in the market.
Intrepid Travel, with over 2,900 employees, is the largest B Corp in the travel industry. The company focuses on hiring local guides, sourcing local materials, and reducing carbon emissions by utilizing train travel. The certification process involves being scored on various criteria and paying an annual fee based on revenue.
While B Corp certification can offer insights into a company’s commitment to sustainability, it often caters to luxury travelers. Budget-conscious travelers may find it challenging to locate affordable options with B Corp certifications. Other certifications and organizations, like Ecostars, 1% for the Planet, and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, also promote sustainability within the travel industry.
Despite the challenges, many companies are striving to achieve sustainability goals. Smaller operations may find the B Corp certification process daunting but are considering it as they grow. Overall, the travel industry is moving towards a more environmentally and socially responsible future, with B Corp certification playing a significant role in this shift.
