For years, “eco-friendly” was the gold standard in sustainable tourism. Reusable bottles, solar panels, no plastic straws, all good things, and all steps in the right direction.
But a quiet revolution is happening.
Today’s most conscious travellers and forward-thinking hotels are pushing past do less harm and embracing a bolder goal:
Leave places better than you found them.
This is the heart of regenerative travel - and it's where the future of luxury lies.
Unlike traditional eco-tourism, which aims to reduce negative impacts, regenerative travel actively works to restore, renew, and heal the destinations we visit.
Think:
Rewilding landscapes through native plant restoration
Funding coral reef regeneration and marine research
Supporting indigenous-led tourism that protects land and culture
Contributing to local food systems and circular economies
In short, it’s travel as a force for renewal, not just preservation.
Tourism is responsible for nearly 8% of global carbon emissions. Even the most well-intentioned traveler leaves a footprint. But regenerative practices offer a way to travel guilt-light — or even guilt-free.
Imagine:
A luxury lodge in Patagonia that plants native forest for every guest stay.
A wellness retreat in Bali that trains and employs local midwives.
A cycling safari in Botswana that monitors elephant migration to prevent poaching.
These aren’t fantasies. They’re already happening - and guests are beginning to expect this level of impact.
Here’s the best part: Regenerative doesn’t mean rustic.
The most exclusive properties in the world are embracing this philosophy - blending design, comfort, and environmental healing.
Look for:
Biophilic design that mirrors the land instead of dominating it
Slow itineraries that favour connection over consumption
Local ownership, artisanship, and storytelling
Waste-free operations and nature-positive construction
It’s not about sacrificing luxury — it’s about reimagining it.
You don’t need to hike barefoot into the jungle to travel regeneratively. Try this:
✅ Choose fewer trips, but longer stays.
✅ Support locally owned hotels and experiences.
✅ Offset your footprint with carbon removal tech (like Tomorrow’s Air).
✅ Ask questions: Where does your money go? Who benefits?
✅ Leave a contribution behind - not just a footprint.
Regenerative travel is more than a trend....it's a mindset shift. It's about travelling not just to escape, but to engage. To not just see the world, but help heal it.
And as travellers, we hold the power to support brands and destinations that are doing better, not just saying they are.
Eco is good. Regenerative is better. And it’s the new luxury.
Check out this week’s Green Edit for a curated escape that gives back.... beautifully.