Tenerife is looking for tourism businesses and organisations doing things a little differently, with the island’s Sustainable Tourism Practices Competition now open for its ninth edition.
Run by Tenerife Tourism, the competition recognises projects that help make tourism more responsible, whether that means reducing waste, using renewable energy, protecting biodiversity or supporting local communities.
Applications are open until 31 January 2027, giving eligible organisations several months to put their projects forward.
Eight categories celebrating better tourism
The competition covers eight categories, including sustainable gastronomy, waste reduction and renewable energy.
Entries will be judged on their environmental and social benefits, innovation, how well the project has been carried out and its measurable impact. Applicants will need to provide evidence that their project is already underway or completed, rather than simply submitting an idea and hoping for the best.
Supporting material can include photographs, charts and other documentation. Applicants can also submit a short explanatory video.
The competition is open to businesses, self-employed professionals, local councils, associations, educational centres and other organisations with tourism-related projects on the island.
Working towards a more sustainable island
Lope Afonso, Tenerife’s Vice President and Tourism Councillor, says progress depends on cooperation between public authorities, businesses and the wider community.
He also highlighted the importance of sharing successful ideas, particularly in areas such as energy efficiency and biodiversity conservation, so that other organisations can learn from them.
Dimple Melwani, chief executive of Tenerife Tourism, added that sustainability needs to be based on practical, measurable actions that make a genuine difference.
The aim is to recognise projects already making progress and encourage others across the tourism industry to follow suit.
More than 200 entries since 2017
The competition has received 208 entries and recognised 49 projects since it began in 2017.
It has become an established part of Tenerife’s efforts to promote better practices across its tourism sector, balancing the needs of visitors and businesses with the protection of the island’s natural and cultural heritage.
Applications for the 2026 edition opened on 1 October and close on 31 January 2027. All submissions will be assessed by a specialist jury against the published criteria.
Businesses and organisations with a suitable project can find the application form, requirements and further information on the Tenerife Tourism website.