TUI Forest Mallorca Wins Global Responsible Tourism Award

The TUI Care Foundation's TUI Forest Mallorca project has been named the global winner in the Adapting to Climate Change category at the 2026 Global Responsible Tourism Awards. The award was presented during the International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) Global Summit in London, recognising the project's innovative approach to restoring ecosystems, strengthening biodiversity and building resilience to climate change in one of Europe's most popular tourism destinations. Alexander Panczuk, Managing Director of the TUI Care Foundation, and Joan Simonet Pons, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment of the Government of the Balearic Islands, received the award in recognition of their joint commitment to protecting Mallorca's natural environment.

Developed by the TUI Care Foundation in partnership with the Government of the Balearic Islands, TUI Forest Mallorca focuses on restoring degraded landscapes in the Península de Llevant Natural Park in the north-east of the island. The area has been affected by repeated wildfires, land-use pressures and the increasing consequences of climate change. By planting of native, fire-resistant tree and plant species, rehabilitating coastal dunes and protecting vulnerable habitats, the project aims to strengthen the resilience of local ecosystems, prevent desertification and safeguard biodiversity for future generations.

The initiative goes beyond traditional reforestation by actively involving local communities, conservation specialists, students and tourism stakeholders in the restoration of Mallorca's natural heritage. More than 1,100 people have already participated in restoration, conservation and environmental education activities. The project also creates opportunities for local employment and connects visitors with nature conservation, demonstrating how tourism can contribute to the long-term protection of the natural environments on which destinations depend. By combining ecological restoration with environmental education and community participation, TUI Forest Mallorca offers a practical model for adapting to climate change through cooperation between the public and private sectors.

Alexander Panczuk, Managing Director of the TUI Care Foundation, said: "Receiving this Global Responsible Tourism Award is a tremendous honour and an important recognition of what can be achieved when the tourism sector and public institutions work together towards a common goal. It is particularly meaningful to receive the award in the category of Adapting to Climate Change, because destinations around the world are increasingly experiencing the consequences of a changing climate. Initiatives like TUI Forest Mallorca show how we can mobilise partnerships and resources to support local action. We hope this recognition will inspire more destinations and tourism businesses to invest in protecting the natural environments and communities on which tourism depends."

Joan Simonet Pons, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment of the Government of the Balearic Islands, said: "Mallorca's natural landscapes are amongst our greatest treasures, but they are also increasingly vulnerable to wildfires, drought and the effects of climate change. Protecting and restoring these ecosystems is a responsibility we share across society. Our partnership with the TUI Care Foundation demonstrates how public institutions, the tourism sector and local communities can work together to strengthen the resilience of our natural environment. By restoring native vegetation, protecting biodiversity and involving residents and visitors in conservation, we are investing in a more sustainable future for Mallorca. This international recognition encourages us to continue building partnerships that deliver lasting benefits for our island and its people."

The international jury particularly praised TUI Forest Mallorca for bringing together public authorities, conservation specialists, local communities and tourism businesses to address desertification and climate-related environmental challenges. The judges highlighted the project's integration of nature conservation into tourism development and visitor education, recognising its potential to inspire similar approaches in other destinations facing increasing climate pressures.