Our approach to sustainability
We are aware that activities such as business travel and events have an impact on people and the environment.
We cannot and do not wish to erase that impact. However, we take a critical look at what can be improved, step by step. This is reflected in the choices we make and the partners we work with. With realistic goals, transparency, and without empty promises, we work towards a responsible way of operating, with consideration for people, the environment, and the future.
Our initiatives
Affiliated with Travelife for sustainable tourism
Our travel activities meet international sustainability standards through Travelife. This helps us to improve structurally on social, environmental, and economic levels.
Donations to SpaceBuzz Foundation
For every passenger booked, we donate to the SpaceBuzz Foundation. In doing so, we support their mission to create 100 million changemakers (people committed to a better and more sustainable planet). Through their educational program, children—guided by astronaut André Kuipers—experience the ‘Overview Effect’: the realization of how fragile our Earth is. Together with Barentszen, we also offer this experience to partners and organizations. Read more about our partnership with Spacebuzz.
Contribution to Trees for All
We collaborate with Trees for All to plant trees and restore ecosystems. This allows us to offset part of our impact and contribute to biodiversity.
Support for the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative
Through the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative, we support efforts to keep destinations free from plastic pollution. Did you know that approximately 300 million tons of new plastic are produced annually? Much of it is used only once. Think of straws, cups, cutlery, and packaging. It is time for action.
Promoting Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
Wherever possible, we support the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), including through partners such as KLM and other providers investing in more sustainable aviation. SAF is produced from waste streams, such as agricultural waste and used cooking oil, and helps reduce emissions throughout the chain.
Providing information on CO₂-conscious travel
Where possible, we inform clients about the CO₂ impact of various travel options and about possibilities to limit emissions or voluntarily compensate, for example through recognized providers.
Together with clients and partners
Sustainability does not happen by itself. That is why we work together with clients and partners on their sustainability ambitions.
We do this, among other things, by:
- Incorporating sustainability into concept development
- Working with suppliers who take responsibility
- Supporting partners in taking sustainable steps
- Investing in long-term collaborations
We increasingly work with venues and suppliers that apply reuse, renewable energy, and circular solutions. We are expanding this network step by step. When selecting partners, we look at their contribution to international sustainability goals, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Responsible experiences
For business travel and international projects, we inform clients where possible on how they can limit their impact. In doing so, we pay attention to:
- Environmentally friendly transport, such as rail travel or public transport to the airport and at the destination, and alternatives to short-haul flights where possible
- Responsible use of water and energy
- Avoiding single-use plastics
- Respect for local culture and customs
- Animal welfare and nature conservation
- Legislation regarding souvenirs and protected species
- Health and safety at the destination
- Supporting local entrepreneurs
- Attention to the well-being and sustainable employability of our employees
In this way, we encourage conscious and respectful travel, appropriate to the destination and the project.
Our responsibility within the sector
As an organization affiliated with the ANVR, we take our responsibility within the sector seriously.
Combat child abuse!
Sustainable travel goes beyond protecting nature. It also means ensuring the safety and well-being of people, especially the most vulnerable in society.
We actively support the ANVR and Defence for Children – ECPAT in the fight against child exploitation in holiday destinations. We invite you to remain alert with us and report any suspicions of child abuse at www.dontlookaway.nl, even if committed abroad! More information on combating child abuse is available from the tour management.
Responsible travel according to the ANVR
As a member of the ANVR (Dutch Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators), we take our responsibility in promoting sustainable travel. The ANVR regards sustainable travel as a responsibility of all stakeholders in the travel sector. As the first travel industry organization in the world, the ANVR, together with all affiliated travel companies, has committed to taking measures in the areas of transport, accommodation, and entertainment through the ANVR Sustainability Vision. When organizing our trips, we strive for emission reduction and social, economic, and ecological sustainability throughout the chain and at the destination, so that both you and future generations can enjoy our travels.
Frequently asked questions
Is BARENTSZEN GROUP certified in the field of sustainability?
Our travel activities comply with international sustainability standards via
How do you help clients make more sustainable choices?
We inform clients about sustainable alternatives regarding transport, locations, and itineraries. This allows them to make conscious decisions that suit their project or organization.
Do you work with sustainable locations and suppliers?
Yes. We increasingly collaborate with locations, accommodations, and suppliers that invest in reuse, renewable energy, and circular solutions. During selection, we look for demonstrable commitment to sustainability.
How do you manage sustainability at destinations?
We encourage responsible behavior at the destination, such as limiting waste, respecting local culture, paying attention to animal welfare, and supporting local entrepreneurs.
Which social initiatives do you support?
We support, among others, the SpaceBuzz Foundation and
What about safety and responsible travel?
As a member organization of the ANVR, we endorse the industry’s sustainability vision. We also support initiatives against child exploitation in holiday destinations and promote responsible travel.
Get in touch or collaborate?
Do you have questions about our sustainable approach, would you like to collaborate, or do you offer a sustainable venue, service, or solution? Please contact us!
