Explora Caribe Tours is the first Tour Operator to achieve EarthCheck Silver Certification in Cozumel, an island and municipality in the Caribbean Sea, east of Mexico!
Mr. Sergio Briceño CEO of Explora Caribe Tours in Mexico said “The Silver Certification is a big step as we continue a true path of conservation and protection to the environment where we live. Also we know that taking actions that are good for the planet are good for business.”
“We are doing our part in leaving a legacy of environmental conservation, education and awareness to my children and my co-worker’s children. We understand that there is still much more to do but we now know that we are walking on the right path and stepping firmly towards our sustainable goals,” Mr Briceño said.
Tourism is a $1.4 trillion industry which directly affects the destinations it operates within. The very environmental values and cultural assets that attract visitors to destinations need to be protected and responsibly managed. The tourism industry and its operators are key to creating this change.
An onsite certification audit, followed by a an evaluation report was provided by an independent auditor before Explora Caribe Tours achieved certification for their head office, cenote cave, cultural park, beach club, four ships, 46 tours and 177 vehicles.
For many years, Explora has been involved in offering experiences all over Mexico that involve interaction and support for local communities including regular beach clean up events and educational awareness to encourage preservation of mangroves and caves in sensitive environments. In addition, Explora is working with local schools and coordinating activities that support minorities, elders and other vulnerable groups, as well as promoting respect for the environment and ecosystems.
Stewart Moore, Founder and CEO of EarthCheck, said that Explora Caribe Tours has taken a significant leadership position in sustainability in Mexico.
“I would like to congratulate the whole team at Explora Caribe Tours on their Silver Certification achievement. Explora Caribe Tours is a valued member of global tourism operators who dare to make a difference,” Mr Moore said.
“EarthCheck has been working with the team at Explora Caribe Tours since 2018. Their team’s dedication to embrace sustainable tourism is to be commended. By promoting art, culture, local gastronomy and marine conservation, Explora Caribe Tours are having a positive impact by providing employment for indigenous people and supporting local communities,” Mr Moore said.
“On behalf of the EarthCheck team, I would like to congratulate Explora Caribe Tours who are pioneers in Conzumel and leading by example by giving back to local communities and promoting responsible tourism. As a valued EarthCheck member, Explora Caribe Tours has joined other industry leaders who are taking meaningful steps towards resolving some of the very real issues that face the planet.”
