Our SDG Impact Lab Fellows Amy Booth and Buntu Fanteso are working with UN Tourism to develop a global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Framework for Tourism Businesses and enhance how sustainability impacts are measured. To achieve this, our Fellows are engaging with innovative tourism companies worldwide, gaining first-hand insights into sustainable practices. Their first stop: Playa Viva in Juluchuca, Guerrero, Mexico. Playa Viva is a pioneering eco-resort, founded by David Leventhal and Sandra Kahn, with a mission to create regenerative travel experiences that support both the environment and local communities.

Here are some highlights from the Fellows' visit to Playa Viva: 

Environmental Stewardship: Playa Viva is a B-Corp Certified, 100% off-grid resort powered by solar energy. From composting and recycling to water conservation and eco-friendly construction, Playa Viva’s operations highlight practical and scalable solutions for reducing environmental impact. The resort runs an extensive watershed regeneration project ReSiMar, which aims to restore the watershed between the mountain and the sea, blending environmental science with indigenous knowledge. This includes reforestation and conservation projects including an on-site turtle sanctuary, regular guest beach clean ups and initiatives across education, permaculture, water, and health and wellness within the local communities.

Community Engagement: The resort's collaboration with local communities showcases the power of inclusive development. From their Adopt a Student program, which facilitates access to education in the local community, to their Women’s Cooperative where local women grow, process, and sell produce from Playa Viva’s permaculture farm and local community gardens. Playa Viva illustrates how businesses can foster sustainable community growth while ensuring the community’s voice is prominent. Guests are also encouraged to participate in community projects, allowing for a truly regenerative tourism experience. 

The Fellows will incorporate insights from Playa Viva’s innovative approach to sustainability into the ESG Framework. Follow along as they uncover insights from the next destination Cuixmala and Hacienda de San Antonio.