Gemma embodies the leadership crucial for driving sustainable tourism development, showcasing a proactive approach to minimising the environmental impact of tourism while supporting nature-based solutions. She enables the implementation of The Travel Corporation's five-year sustainability strategy whilst also enabling conscious and responsible growth for the business through marketing efforts. She has managed a successful partnership with Switzerland Tourism to promote the "Swisstainable” programme and is facilitating two-way industry dialogue in cooperation with Visit Scotland to bridge the gap between product and sales. These initiatives have enabled Gemma to increase interest in sustainable tours and the growth of tourism in shoulder seasons, highlighting the power of collaboration and effective communication in driving positive change.

The team at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre in Scotland is leading the way in sustainable tourism by showcasing the powerful impact of rewilding. Dundreggan is a prime example of rewilding in action, where land once used for livestock grazing is being transformed back into a vibrant wild forest. The newly opened Dundreggan Rewilding Centre serves as a gateway to this revitalised landscape, providing a compelling narrative and immersive and educational experiences for visitors about the potential of rewilding to create a more sustainable future for both nature and people.

Camilla Jönsson is a leading figure in sustainable tourism in Sweden, driven by her background as an ecologist and her deep understanding of the delicate balance of the natural world. As the founder of Nyrups Naturhotell, she has created a model for sustainable hospitality where guests connect with nature through mindful activities like outdoor cooking and shared experiences around a fire. Camilla further champions sustainable tourism in her role as President of Naturturismföretagen - The Swedish Nature and Ecotourism Association, where she is a strong advocate for policies and practices that support the growth of environmentally and socially responsible tourism in Sweden.

Maša, project manager of the Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism (GSST) - a nationwide certification programme operating under the "SLOVENIA GREEN" brand - is a leading figure in driving Slovenia's sustainable tourism transition. This programme provides a framework for evaluating and improving sustainability efforts across all sectors of the Slovenian tourism industry. Maša's background in environmental science and her leadership in coordinating efforts across government levels and promoting sustainable practices have been instrumental in the successful implementation of the GSST, solidifying Slovenia's position as a leader in sustainable tourism.

Shane, as Fáilte Ireland's Environment & Planning Manager, is a key figure in driving sustainable tourism development across Ireland. He not only champions sustainability within Fáilte Ireland but also actively contributes to shaping national policies and advocating for sustainable practices in the tourism sector. Through managing and guiding the National Environmental Monitoring Programme and overseeing environmental assessments for the development of Destination & Experience Development Plans, Shane ensures that tourism is managed in a way that benefits local communities and protects the environment.

Burak's dedication to incorporating sustainability into the events sector is commendable. By establishing a volunteer programme for international students and prioritising local sourcing, recycling and composting, the event he managed at the Fries Museum in Leeuwarden, showcases a practical approach to sustainable event management.

As Project Manager at the National Tourism Organisation of Montenegro, Matea is a driving force in establishing the country as a sustainable tourism destination, capitalising on its unique heritage as the world's first ecological state. Her passion for sustainable tourism and climate change adaptation is evident in her work championing the development of hiking and biking routes, which has led to the growth of nature-based tourism in Montenegro. While challenges exist in maintaining the less popular trails, the project's success is demonstrated by the increasing expertise of tourism agencies in offering outdoor activities and the rise of diverse adventure experiences such as canyoning, rafting, kitesurfing and birdwatching. The integration of over 150 registered rural households into organised travel experiences highlights the project's positive impact on rural communities, marking a shift towards sustainable tourism models that benefit a wider range of communities beyond the coast.

The Quiet Site sets a compelling example of how sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into business operations in the tourism industry. They have constructed well-insulated and energy-positive accommodation units, with 80% of energy consumption coming from renewable sources. Significant infrastructural investments have also improved water efficiency and waste reduction. Beyond their own operations, The Quiet Site's dedication to sustainable development shines through their instrumental role in forming SITU, a group advocating for sustainable transportation options in the Ullswater Valley, including the creation of new footpaths and the launch of bus services that connect local attractions with accommodation, helping to enable car-free travel in the Lake District for both residents and visitors.