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Responsible Travel and ESG Awards

🌱The Responsible Travel Awards celebrate hostels that make a real difference through environmental sustainability, community engagement, and cultural connection — reflecting Hostelworld’s ongoing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) commitment.

These awards complement the customer review categories by recognising properties that go beyond great service, championing responsible, inclusive, and meaningful travel.

🏅 Award Categories 

Hostels can nominate themselves in up to two categories:

The Community Superhero
Recognises hostels that create positive change in their local communities through volunteering, fundraising, or social projects.

The Culture Champion
Celebrates hostels that preserve and promote local culture — through events, heritage tours, art, or educational initiatives.

The Eco Warrior
Honours hostels leading in sustainability, from carbon-neutral practices to waste reduction and eco-tourism.

Fun fact: Hostels are already about 82% less carbon-intensive than hotels — these awards highlight those going even further!

📅 How It Works

The Responsible Travel Awards take place across three rounds:

1. Self-Nomination 

2. Judging Panel 

3. Public Voting 

📋 Submission Guidelines

  • Eligibility: Only properties listed as hostels on Hostelworld are eligible.

  • Categories: Up to two Responsible Travel categories per property.

  • File Format: PDF or Word document (max. 300 words).

  • Supporting Material: Optional photos or short videos.

  • Chains: Hostel chains may enter as a group or submit individual properties.

🏆 All winners receive a digital HOSCAR certificate — a sustainable and shareable way to promote your achievements online and inspire your guests.

💡 Tips for a Strong Submission

✔️ Be concise and authentic — tell your story in your own words.
✔️ Highlight measurable impact (e.g., reduced waste, community projects, guest engagement).
✔️ Add visuals that showcase your work.
✔️ Involve your guests — show how they can participate.
✔️ Promote your nomination during the public voting round.

🌍 Inspiration from Previous Winners

JO&JOE Largo do Boticário (Brazil) – 100% plastic-free, powered by renewable energy, hosting community clean-ups.
Wonderland Jungle Hostel (Thailand) – Offers free education and English lessons for local students.
Lagarto na Banana (Brazil) – Combines accommodation with music, art, dance, and cultural exchange.

🔗 Learn More