The 2024 EXO Foundation Sustainability Awards proudly recognises the outstanding winners in the ‘Planet’ category.
While tourism in Asia is a major economic force, it also presents environmental challenges. Beyond carbon emissions associated with travel, tourism increases waste and places additional pressure on local resources.
Striking a balance between tourism growth and environmental sustainability is crucial for the lasting health of the region’s natural landscapes and communities.
This year’s ‘Planet’ award winners, selected by a panel of industry experts, exemplify a commitment to advancing climate action, fostering a circular economy and regenerating nature.
‘I’m proud to be a part of the Sustainability Awards helping these remarkable initiatives achieve the recognition and visibility they deserve’, shares Charlotte Piffard, EXO Foundation Leader. ‘ Their commitment to environmental stewardship is truly inspiring and it strengthens sustainability within our shared ecosystem.’
Keep reading to learn more about the winners and their inspiring work.
Winners: Planet- Non Profit
Jahoo is a community-owned ecotourism initiative based in Cambodia’s Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary, promoting conservation through wildlife-friendly jobs and community-led efforts.
By offering exclusive tours focused on endangered primates like the yellow-cheeked crested gibbon, Jahoo fosters sustainable social improvements, motivating local communities to value and protect the rich forest ecosystem for long-term conservation.
For more than 25 years, Kalaweit has protected Indonesia’s biodiversity, transforming over 2,000 hectares in Borneo and Sumatra into private forest reserves.
Focused on rescuing trafficked wildlife and curbing deforestation, they employ locals as rangers to secure habitats for species like gibbons and macaques. This work supports communities, regenerates ecosystems, and reduces CO₂ emissions by preserving forestland.
Founded in 1999 in Bali, Yayasan IDEP Foundation builds resilient communities across Indonesia and nearby regions.
Using permaculture, they promote sustainable livelihoods, disaster readiness and education. IDEP’s latest plan, spanning 2024-2028, targets six areas (economy, environment, culture, health, education and disaster management) fostering adaptable, self-sustaining communities through training, partnerships and public awareness campaigns.
Gaia Nature Conservation Center is a not-for-profit scientific and technical organisation based in Vietnam. Their mission is to empower and promote activities to conserve nature and protect the environment to create a future where people live in harmony with Mother Earth.
Gaia’s current programs include: Planting and restoring forests, Experience nature for businesses, families, students and youth, Community Engagement and Plastic waste and Green Living course.
Winners: Planet- Tourism Company
Soneva, headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand, is a luxury resort operator pioneering sustainable stays, emphasising environmental protection, community support and carbon neutrality since 1995.
With a flagship resort on Koh Kood, Soneva Kiri blends eco-conscious practices, such as waste recycling and organic dining, with luxury. Guided by founders Sonu and Eva Shivdasani, Soneva champions responsible tourism, benefiting both nature and local communities.
Located on a small island near Phuket, Thailand, The Racha resort champions sustainability through water conservation, recycling and a 250 KW Solar Hybrid System, cutting carbon emissions by over 30%.
Initiatives like wastewater reuse and condensate collection protect natural resources, while community engagement reflects their commitment to responsible tourism, making The Racha an eco-friendly haven for guests and locals alike.
Salinda Resort Phu Quoc promotes sustainability through its eco-friendly architecture, waste reduction and community engagement.
Located on Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island, the resort’s ‘Purple Purpose’ initiative supports local artisans and cultural preservation. Efforts include using sustainable materials, operating a water bottling plant to eliminate plastic waste and promoting responsible experiences that benefit the environment and local communities.
OceanKita, a social enterprise operating across Indonesia, tackles plastic pollution by collecting aquatic waste and promoting a circular economy.
Through Plastic Credits and partnerships with local groups, they foster community involvement. Offering consulting services, OceanKita helps businesses reduce plastic use and raises environmental awareness. Their initiatives are crucial for sustainable waste management and community-driven change.
EXO Foundation, the non-profit arm of EXO Travel, operates across a growing number of countries, fostering sustainable development through responsible tourism. By supporting local grassroots initiatives, the Foundation aims to drive positive societal and environmental changes, maximising tourism’s potential as a tool for poverty alleviation and promoting good practices across the travel industry.
The EXO Foundation’s annual Sustainability Awards celebrates organisations—both non-profits and tourism companies—that are pioneering scalable solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in our destinations. Expert judges evaluate each of the applicants and prizes are awarded to recognise and support their efforts. Read about the 2024 winners in the People category by clicking here.
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 
" alt=""> 