Green Initiative congratulates Mato Grosso do Sul for earning a Top 3 position in Embratur’s “Best ESG Practices in Brazilian Destinations” contest, showcasing their sustainable tourism and climate action leadership.
The Agência Brasileira de Promoção Internacional do Turismo (Embratur) recently announced the winners of its prestigious “Melhores Práticas ESG nos Destinos Brasileiros” (Best ESG Practices in Brazilian Destinations) contest. This initiative highlights the best environmental, social, and governance (ESG) efforts driving sustainable tourism in Brazil. Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), through its Secretaria de Turismo, Esporte e Cultura and Fundação de Turismo de Mato Grosso do Sul (FUNDTUR), was recognized as one of the Top 3 destinations for their exceptional progress and leadership.
The Top 3 Winners:
- Belotur – Empresa Municipal de Turismo de Belo Horizonte (1st Place)
- Secretaria de Estado do Turismo de Alagoas (2nd Place)
- Secretaria de Turismo, Esporte e Cultura / FUNDTUR (Mato Grosso do Sul)
- Secretaria Municipal de Turismo do Rio de Janeiro
With participation from nearly 50 organizations and over 200 sustainable initiatives, Mato Grosso do Sul’s recognition is a testament to the state’s growing impact in the ESG tourism space.
Sustainable Leadership and Innovation in Mato Grosso do Sul
Mato Grosso do Sul has demonstrated consistent progress since launching its sustainability strategy in 2022. Key milestones include:
- Carbon-Neutral Certification for Bonito: Recognized as one of the leading eco-tourism destinations globally, Bonito became a certified carbon-neutral destination, setting the benchmark for responsible tourism.
- Statewide Decarbonization Efforts: FUNDTUR has been implementing state-level strategies to decarbonize tourism, aligning with MS’s ambition to become Brazil’s first carbon-neutral state by 2030.
- Innovative Conservation Projects: Initiatives like Amolar Experience and Instituto Arara Azul contribute to biodiversity preservation in the Pantanal biome.
- Community Empowerment: Programs such as Icterus Ecoturismo empower local women through creative economy initiatives.
- Inclusive Tourism: Projects like Pantanal Friendly Cruise and Circuito Kaô promote diversity, accessibility, and cultural heritage.
Bruno Wendling, Director-President of FUNDTUR, emphasized the importance of collaboration: “This award reinforces the work initiated in 2022 and demonstrates that our state is on the right path to becoming a more responsible and climate-focused tourism destination. We aim to transform MS into Brazil’s first carbon-neutral state by 2030.”
Why ESG Practices Matter in Tourism
The adoption of ESG principles (Environmental, Social, and Governance) is essential for ensuring tourism contributes positively to both communities and the planet:
- Environmental (E): Reducing carbon emissions, protecting biodiversity, and implementing climate action plans.
- Social (S): Promoting inclusion, community empowerment, and protecting cultural heritage.
- Governance (G): Establishing ethical processes, risk management, and securing international certifications.
Additionally, Mato Grosso do Sul’s efforts align with the principles of regenerative tourism, a concept that goes beyond sustainability to actively restore ecosystems, regenerate communities, and create long-term positive impacts on nature and climate. By integrating climate and nature positive actions, MS ensures that tourism becomes a vehicle for healing the environment, reversing biodiversity loss, and empowering local stakeholders to lead the change.
The success of Mato Grosso do Sul underscores the critical role destinations play in advancing these principles to foster a more resilient, inclusive, and regenerative tourism industry.
Green Initiative and Mato Grosso do Sul: A Shared Vision
At Green Initiative, we champion partners and destinations like Mato Grosso do Sul that demonstrate measurable progress toward sustainability. By implementing innovative carbon management solutions, biodiversity conservation, and inclusive tourism programs, MS is paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.
This recognition by Embratur highlights the state’s dedication and serves as a powerful example for other destinations aiming to integrate ESG practices, regenerative tourism, and climate and nature positive strategies.
Looking Ahead
As part of their award, Mato Grosso do Sul will receive ESG consulting support from Embratur, highlighted participation in international marketing campaigns, and professional project documentation, including videos, to amplify global visibility. These benefits will further strengthen Mato Grosso do Sul’s position as a leader in sustainable and regenerative tourism, attracting investments and fostering partnerships to achieve their 2030 carbon-neutral goal.
Join Us in Celebrating Sustainable Tourism Excellence
Green Initiative congratulates Mato Grosso do Sul and FUNDTUR for their achievements. Together, we can inspire more destinations to embrace sustainability, climate action, regenerative tourism, and inclusive practices as central pillars for development.
Let’s work towards a future where tourism drives positive change for people, nature, and the planet. Contact us to learn more about sustainable tourism and Green Initiative’s global efforts.
