Iberostar Group wins ‘World’s Leading Marine & Biodiversity Conservation Program’ | News
Hospitality provider Iberostar Group has been recognized at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards with the title ‘World’s Leading Marine & Biodiversity Conservation Programme’ for its Wave of Change programme.
Through this initiative, Iberostar is investing heavily in the restoration of coral reefs. In 2024 alone, the group planted more than 12,000 corals and launched four coral farms in the Caribbean. Research teams study the resilience of reefs, while guest excursions fund long-term marine conservation. Iberostar integrates reef-friendly sunscreen, low-impact marine tours and real-time biodiversity monitoring into its operations.
The award was unveiled in front of hundreds of global sustainable tourism leaders gathered in Dubai for the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025. The VIP ceremony was held at Terra, Expo City Dubai and recognized individuals and organizations accelerating change in net positive tourism.
Erika Harms, Global Director of Sustainability, Science, Innovation and Destinations, Iberostar Hotels & Resorts, said: “It is an honor to receive this recognition at the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards. At Iberostar, protecting the ocean is at the heart of our business strategy and the way we operate in our destinations. Through our Wave of Change movement, we are committed to restoring and protecting the coastal ecosystems around our hotels.
“With a team of more than 30 scientists and sustainability experts, we are focused on strengthening coral reefs, restoring mangroves and strengthening coastal dunes – efforts that increase the protection of our hotels and nearby communities through nature-based solutions. By doing so, we increase the long-term resilience of our business, protect biodiversity and ensure the destinations we depend on thrive for generations to come.”
The awards program is run in partnership with the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, whose partners and members represent more than 66,000 hotels, eight million rooms worldwide, 300 brands and more than 100 supply chain and strategic partners.
Glenn Mandziuk, President & Chief Executive Officer of World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, said: “We congratulate Iberostar Group on this honor. This achievement reflects an outstanding commitment to innovation, collaboration and leadership in sustainable hospitality. At the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, we are proud to recognize organizations that are not only redefining excellence in guest experience, but also demonstrating that responsible business practices and sustainability are essential to the future of our industry – a net positive future for hospitality.”
Justin Cooke, Executive Vice President of the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, said: “Our organization is committed to celebrating the individuals and companies who are setting new standards in protecting our planet for future generations – and Iberostar Group is a truly deserving winner. It is a privilege to recognize the organisation’s achievements at our second annual Gala Ceremony, and I wish the team much success in the years to come.”
