On June 27th, 2024, Machu Picchu will proudly announce the renewal of its prestigious certification as the world’s first Carbon-Neutral UNESCO Designated Site, granted by the Green Initiative.
This achievement follows a rigorous certification process that began in 2021, involving comprehensive analyses of scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions. This time, the carbon footprint data will be compared to its baseline to verify its climate mitigation performance.
Since its initial certification, Machu Picchu has been at the forefront of decarbonization efforts. Through a combination of innovative decarbonization practices such as the restoration of degraded areas, waste pyrolysis, biodiesel production from recycled oils, and the implementation of PET plastic and cardboard compactor plants, there are high expectations for the decarbonization results achieved.
These efforts have also helped enhance local ecosystems by planting 6,596 native trees across 5 hectares.
Recognized by UN Tourism, UNESCO, and other esteemed international bodies, Machu Picchu’s renewal as a Carbon-Neutral UNESCO Designated Site reaffirms its role as a global leader in climate action and circular economy practices. This achievement not only underscores Machu Picchu’s cultural and natural significance but also its unwavering dedication to preserving these treasures for future generations.
Behind The Machu Picchu Certification
In 2021, Green Initiative, in coordination with the District Municipality of Machu Picchu, along with the strategic collaboration from InkaTerra, AJE Group, SERNANP, and Promperu, certified Machu Picchu as the world’s first Carbon Neutral UNESCO Designated Site. The certification process included a comprehensive analysis of scopes 1, 2, and 3, totaling 7,143.51 tCO2.
The certification aims to promote the decarbonization of Machu Picchu´s as as tourism destination, by enhancing public and private collaboration, positioning Machu Picchu as an international reference for climate action in tourism, aligned with the United Nations’ Glasgow Declaration.
Additionally, the certification seeks to attract public and private financing to drive investment agendas that will enable the execution of Machu Picchu’s decarbonization plan. This plan will allow the destination to continue its journey towards decarbonization and fulfillment of international commitments under Green Initiative’s Carbon Neutral Certification.
Moreover, the certification plays a crucial role in the international positioning of Machu Picchu and Peru as a leading destination, being the world’s first Carbon Neutral UNESCO Designated Site.
The certification all generates additional opportunities that add value to Promperu’s and the private sector’s efforts to promote Machu Picchu nationally and internationally as the world’s first Carbon Neutral UNESCO Designated Site.
For further updates on Machu Picchu’s journey towards carbon neutrality and sustainable tourism practices, visit greeninitiative.eco.
Usefull links:
- Download Press Release – English
- Download Press Release – Spanish
- Regenerative Tourism: Building Tourism Back Better
- Download The Climate Action Guide for Tourism Businesses and Destinations
