A new online feature will recognise the sustainability efforts of holiday lets, ensuring that travellers are more informed when booking more environmentally friendly holidays.

Booking.com, a digital travel platform operating under Booking Holdings Inc., announced the release of its Travel Sustainability Badge: an original digital method that recognises sustainable choices for green-conscious consumers booking holidays through the Booking.com website.

The holiday company claims the certification is the first of its kind and that a wide variety of properties are eligible for the award: from apartments and B&Bs, to hotels and resorts.

According to Booking.com, 64% of travellers are looking to holiday in sustainable lodging in the near future.

This corroborates a recent study by VisitBritain, which found that, in the UK, around 75% of people surveyed said they will think more about sustainability when travelling in the future.

The Travel Sustainability Badge directly responds to this increased consumer interest.

“We are recognising the sustainability efforts of a broader range of properties around the world in a credible and transparent way for consumers,” said Marianne Gybels, Director of Sustainability at Booking.com.

“Displaying the practices they have in place makes it easier for everyone to make a more informed and hopefully more sustainable choice for their next trip.

“Building a truly sustainable travel industry will take time, coordination and concerted effort, but progress is possible through continued innovation, partner support and industry collaboration.” 

Booking.com claims the Travel Sustainability Badge represents part of the company’s efforts to not only make sustainable travel more accessible for consumers, but also emphasise the green practices made by Booking.com’s associates.