Within the framework of FITUR 2026, Lanzarote reaffirms its position as one of the most sustainable destinations in the world by renewing its Biosphere Gold distinction, an international recognition that endorses its commitment to responsible tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the same time, the island presented the Lanzarote Biosphere Gastronomy Guide, an initiative that brings together sustainability, gastronomy, and territory, consolidating Lanzarote as a living example of how tourism can be an authentic experience that celebrates local flavors and promotes a more sustainable model.
Lanzarote, a global pioneer in sustainable tourism, reaffirmed its commitment to responsible development during the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) 2026, held at IFEMA Madrid.
In this context, the destination announced the renewal of its Biosphere Sustainable Certified Gold certification, an international recognition granted by the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI). At the same time, it unveiled the Lanzarote Biosphere Gastronomy Guide, an initiative that blends sustainability, local identity, and gastronomic excellence, consolidating the island as a global benchmark in responsible tourism.
With this new renewal, Lanzarote strengthens its position as a global reference in sustainable tourism, thanks to its territorial management model based on protecting the natural environment, engaging the tourism sector, and continuously improving efficiency in resource management.
The Biosphere Gold distinction is awarded after verifying that, in addition to implementing sustainable practices at the territorial level, the destination demonstrates broad business-sector commitment to sustainability.
During the presentation event, Oswaldo Betancort García, President of the Island Council of Lanzarote, stated:
“This recognition reaffirms that Lanzarote is moving forward with determination toward a sustainable development model based on balance between our territory, our community, and tourism activity. It is a collective achievement that the entire island can be proud of.”
This renewal represents the consolidation of a comprehensive sustainability strategy that positions Lanzarote as an international model of coherence and action in responsible tourism.
During the same event, the Lanzarote Biosphere Gastronomy Guide was presented, a publication resulting from collaboration between Turismo Lanzarote, the Lanzarote Tourism Federation (FTL), and the Lanzarote and La Graciosa Hospitality Association (HOSTELAN).
The project is part of the Lanzarote Sustainable Gastronomy program and aims to highlight establishments on the island that integrate sustainability across all aspects of their gastronomic activity.
The guide features the experiences of nine leading restaurants on the island that stand out for practices such as:
The restaurants included in this guide hold the Biosphere Committed distinction, which accredits them as establishments committed to sustainability and in the process of adopting more responsible management models. This recognition marks the beginning of their path toward Biosphere Certified certification, which distinguishes entities that verifiably demonstrate their commitment to the principles of sustainable tourism and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The guide includes Restaurante Lilium, Restaurante Sal Marina Playa Honda, Restaurante La Forgía, Restaurante Dunas de Famara, Restaurante 8Burgers, Restaurante Alma Tapas & +, Restaurante Ana Viciosa, Restaurante Tacande, and Restaurante La Bodega de Santiago—each a benchmark in Lanzarote’s dining scene, where local cuisine, locally sourced products, and responsible management come together to offer authentic and sustainable gastronomic experiences.
This initiative demonstrates that sustainable gastronomy is also a driver of economic and cultural development, strengthening the connection between territory, identity, and the tourism experience.
In the words of Susana Pérez Represa, President of the Island Association of Hotel and Apartment Owners of Lanzarote (ASOLAN):
“With this guide, we show that Lanzarote’s gastronomy reflects the island’s identity: authentic, innovative, and deeply respectful of its environment. Sustainability not only enhances the visitor experience, but also strengthens the sector and boosts our local economy.”
The island of Lanzarote, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1993, continues to be an example of balance between tourism development, environmental conservation, and social well-being.
With its unique volcanic landscapes, architecture that respects the environment, and a participatory management model, the island has made sustainability its hallmark.
From wine tourism experiences in La Geria, responsible surfing in Famara, volcanic hiking routes, to conscious gastronomy proposals, the island demonstrates that sustainability is not a constraint, but an opportunity to offer authentic, responsible, and high-quality experiences.
In this regard, Patricio Azcárate Díaz de Losada, Secretary General of the Responsible Tourism Institute (RTI), noted:
“The Gold distinction is the result of a genuine commitment to sustainability. Lanzarote does not merely meet standards; it inspires destinations around the world by demonstrating that coherence and responsible management generate lasting positive impact.”
With the renewal of the Biosphere Sustainable Certified Gold certification and the presentation of the Lanzarote Biosphere Gastronomy Guide, Lanzarote reinforces its role as a leading destination in sustainable tourism. Both milestones underscore its firm commitment to continuing to build a regenerative, inclusive tourism model aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Once again, the island demonstrates that sustainability is not a destination, but a shared journey toward a more balanced, conscious, and human future.