Global Sustainable Tourism Reaches New Heights with Green Destinations Top 100 Story 2026 Call for Entries

Green Destinations Top 100 Stories 2026 Call for Entries

The annual call for entries for the 2026 Green Destinations Top 100 Stories has officially commenced, inviting global tourist destinations to submit their tales of sustainable tourism. This esteemed initiative, which has been celebrating exemplary practices in sustainable tourism since 2014, aims to recognize the top 100 destinations from around the world renowned for their exceptional commitment to sustainability.

Participating regions are encouraged to submit their Good Practice Stories—real-world examples of initiatives that contribute positively to sustainable tourism. Those regions that excel in their submissions will earn a coveted spot in the Top 100 list.

Japanese Guidance and Support

In Japan, the Sustainability Coordinator Association (一般社団法人サステナビリティ・コーディネーター協会) serves as the official liaison for Green Destinations. They will provide information in Japanese regarding the 2026 Green Destinations Top 100 Stories. Additionally, a Japanese guidance session is planned for late January, specifically aimed at local tourism operators interested in participating. For inquiries regarding the guidance or information in Japanese, please reach out via email: [email protected].

Details of the 2026 Green Destinations Top 100 Stories

- Eligible Participants: Local governments, regions, and destination management organizations (DMOs).
- How to Apply: Interested parties can find detailed application guidelines on the official Green Destinations website: Green Destinations Top 100.
- Application Fee: €700.

Key Changes from Last Year

This year's application process features notable changes:

- The Sustainability Check has been eliminated.
- Introduction of the Story Discovery Scan and a new platform.
- The submission categories have been streamlined from six to four:

1. Visitor Experiences & Destination Management
2. People & Community
3. Nature & Environment
4. Culture & Heritage

Important Dates

- March 31, 2026: Deadline for registration and payment.
- June 15, 2026: Deadline for submission of Good Practice Stories.
- October 2026: Award ceremony (location to be determined during the Green Destinations Conference).

Overview of Green Destinations

Name: Green Destinations

Head Office: Netherlands

Activities: Development and implementation of international certification and award systems for tourism destinations, along with training and support services for achieving certification.

Website: Green Destinations

Overview of the Sustainability Coordinator Association

Name: Japan Sustainability Coordinator Association (一般社団法人サステナビリティ・コーディネーター協会)

Executive Director: Aoki Shinro

Established: April 2023

Activities:

1. Research and standardization of sustainability coordination for tourist destinations.
2. Building a network for sustainability coordinators in tourism.
3. Planning and implementation of practical training for sustainability coordinators.
4. Supporting the development of sustainability systems based on international standards at tourist destinations.
5. Assisting with applications for certifications and awards from international tourism certification agencies.