In a significant push towards sustainability and inclusion in the tourism sector, Biosphere, the international reference in sustainability certification based on the structure of the Sustainable Development Goals and targets set by the United Nations, and its innovative global platform for identifying sustainable consumption alternatives, has announced its alliance with Queer Destinations, a prominent entity in LGBTQ+ tourism, recognized for its work in creating inclusive tourist spaces. Together, they are committed to promoting and facilitating the adoption of business practices that respect both the environment and human diversity.

Coinciding with FITUR in Madrid, the two organizations have highlighted their shared commitment to creating a more inclusive, fair, and sustainable tourism. Biosphere continues its work to integrate sustainability at the core of tourist destination activities, companies, and consumers, relying on the 17 SDGs and their 169 targets. On the other side of this alliance, Queer Destinations, a leading company in the LGBTQ+ segment, whose distinction is recognized by the IGLTA (International LGBTQ+ Tourism Association), brings its expertise in team training and talent, and the creation of safe and inclusive destinations that have already extended to countries such as Spain, Mexico, the United States, Germany, Belgium, or the Netherlands. In this synergy, the participating entities will have a greater capacity to develop ethical and holistic business models.

This innovative agreement, sealed during one of the most prominent events in the global tourism industry in Madrid, aims to lay the groundwork for tangible transformation in the global tourism industry, positioning sustainability and LGBTQ+ inclusion as essential pillars of the industry.

After their meeting and agreement, which involved the participation of Patricio Azcárate (CEO of Biosphere) and Roberto Álvarez (CEO of Satour Tourism Consultancy and Delegate of Biosphere Andalucía), Edgar Weggelaar, CEO of Queer Destinations, commented: "We are ready to embark on this transformative journey hand in hand with Biosphere. This collaboration symbolizes a crucial advancement in our mission to create tourist experiences that celebrate diversity and promote positive environmental impact. Together, we will empower businesses to authentically commit to diversity and continue to improve their sustainable practices, fostering a global community committed to respect and environmental conservation."

In the words of Patricio Azcárate, CEO of Biosphere, "this alliance reinforces the power of collaboration and consensus among organizations that advocate for an increasingly sustainable world. As a cornerstone of sustainability for any business model and destination, beyond environmental aspects, the inclusion, diversity, and equality of people are essential. Hand in hand with Queer Destinations, we achieve harmonizing the language of this great pillar and providing our large community with the most inclusive methodology, always connected to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals and targets."

With this agreement, the aim is to provide companies with the necessary tools and knowledge to implement sustainability and diversity and inclusion actions thanks to Biosphere's certification and the 'Queer Destinations Committed' distinction, with which the company positions itself as the bridge that connects governments, destinations, and international companies with the LGBTQ+ community, a tourist segment that, according to sources from the World Tourism Organization, could account for up to 180 million annual tourists. A figure that could increase in a context where more and more people identify as part of the community, moving from 4% of the boomer generation to 16% of the Z generation according to Ipsos data in 2023.