Madrid, August 2025 — In an unprecedented move, CaixaBank has become the first and only financial institution to join Green & Human, the leading Spanish association promoting sustainable tourism. This collaboration positions the bank as a financial pioneer in Spain’s transformation toward greener, more inclusive tourism.
What Green & Human Represents
Established with the support of Hyatt Inclusive Collection and other industry leaders, Green & Human is a non-profit alliance championing the shift to sustainable tourism in Spain. Its mission is grounded in the 2030 Agenda and involves key players like Grupo Hotusa, PortAventura World, Palladium Hotels, and the Biosphere certification body.
Since its inception, Green & Human has already achieved a reduction of over 70 tonnes of CO₂ emissions and initiated projects valued at approximately €120 million, showcasing a measurable impact.
CaixaBank’s Sustainable Finance Commitment
Through its dedicated Hotels & Tourism division, CaixaBank has been a primary driver of sustainable investments in the sector.
- In 2024, it provided a record €4 billion in financing across over 3,600 projects, supporting renovations, innovation, and sustainability in destinations such as the Balearic Islands, Catalonia, Madrid, the Canary Islands, and Andalusia.
This partnership further aligns with CaixaBank’s 2025–2027 Sustainability Plan, which aims to mobilize €100 billion in sustainable finance, positioning the bank as a European sustainability leader.
Strategic Impact of the New Alliance
By joining Green & Human, CaixaBank pledges to:
- Offer financial tools and strategic guidance for sustainable tourism projects.
- Co-develop new initiatives focused on responsible investment and scalable models within the tourism sector.
As David Rico, Managing Director of CaixaBank Hotels & Tourism, stated:
“The goal of this alliance is to transform tourism into a more sustainable, inclusive, and innovative model.”
Community & Social Initiatives
CaixaBank’s sustainability leadership extends beyond financing:
- The ReUtilízame program redistributes hotel surpluses to social organizations.
- The Incorpora program aids the employment of individuals from vulnerable groups within tourism.
These social impact efforts are complemented by its financing role. Recently, CaixaBank renewed a €2.5 billion credit line with Spain’s hotel association CEHAT, extending support to over 16,000 tourism establishments—a clear indicator of its commitment to both sustainability and inclusion.
Why This Matters for Spain’s Tourism Industry
As travelers increasingly seek eco-conscious travel, CaixaBank’s strategic involvement provides Spanish tourism with a competitive advantage. Financial backing for projects tied to energy efficiency, water management, and sustainable design enhances Spain’s appeal as a responsible tourism destination.
Moreover, by embedding tourism within its broader sustainability goals, CaixaBank is helping craft a model where economic performance, environmental protection, and social development advance hand in hand.
Spain’s Emerging Green Destinations
Several Spanish cities are already recognized for their sustainable strategies:
- Valencia: Named European Green Capital 2024 for its green mobility, smart urban planning, and biodiversity initiatives.
- Vitoria (Basque Country): Awarded the Global Green City Award for pedestrian infrastructure and eco-friendly development.
- Madrid: Held the title of “Tree City of the World” from 2019 to 2023, underscoring its commitment to urban green spaces.
CaixaBank’s financing reach could further transform these cities and other emerging regions into sustainable tourism hubs.
Looking Ahead
CaixaBank’s entrance into Green & Human marks a pivotal advancement for sustainable tourism in Spain. By coupling €4 billion in recent sector financing, a €2.5 billion credit line, social inclusion programs, and a clear SDG-aligned strategy, the bank establishes itself as an essential engine of tourism transformation.
This collaboration lays the groundwork for tourism that’s not only economically vibrant, but also environmentally responsible and socially inclusive—steering Spain toward a future where travel enhances both destinations and communities.
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