Quintana Roo Launches Green Distinctive Certification for Tourism Businesses

Bacalar, Quintana Roo — Tourism businesses in Quintana Roo can now seek official recognition for environmentally responsible operations under a new certification program, the Green Distinctive, presented in Bacalar.

The initiative targets hotels, restaurants and tourism promoters interested in adopting responsible practices and helping protect the state’s environment, officials said. It also aims to strengthen sustainability across the state’s tourism destinations.

The presentation outlined the program’s scope, which seeks to have Quintana Roo’s Pueblos Mágicos — towns designated for their cultural and natural appeal — recognized as sustainable tourism destinations through training, hands-on support and certification.

What participating businesses gain

According to the call for applicants circulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (PPA), the designation gives establishments official recognition for their environmental commitment, builds trust among customers and visitors, and helps position destinations around sustainability criteria.

The program includes promoting the environmental audit process, spreading good practices and complying with environmental regulations. Participants also receive training and guidance to help them move toward full certification.

The PPA said its role in the Bacalar meeting formed part of broader interagency coordination to promote an environmental culture and bring different economic sectors into the conservation of Quintana Roo’s natural heritage.

Under the slogan “Let’s promote sustainable tourism destinations together,” the program aims to push the tourism sector beyond simply advertising natural attractions, urging concrete environmental commitments and better service practices.