Despite recent rumors suggesting otherwise, Prince Harry continues to play a pivotal role in Travalyst, the sustainable tourism initiative he founded in 2019. Sally Davey, the Chief Executive Officer for Travalyst, has categorically denied claims that the Duke of Sussex is no longer associated with the organization. In a statement issued to People, Davey affirmed that Prince Harry "is the founder of Travalyst and remains an invaluable part of this organization."
Davey further clarified that Prince Harry's role within the company has not changed and that he continues to be actively involved in strategic discussions and decisions alongside the organization's partners and board members. This clarification comes in the wake of speculation about Prince Harry's involvement with Travalyst, which was triggered when Davey welcomed new board members without mentioning the Duke.
Travalyst's mission, as stated on its website, is to "bring credible, consistent sustainability information to the mainstream, helping both travelers and travel companies make better, greener choices." The organization provides neutral governance, enabling its coalition of major travel companies and service providers to share data and accelerate change. Its global coalition includes industry giants like Amadeus, Booking.com, Expedia Group, Google, Skyscanner, Travelport, Trip.com Group, Tripadvisor, and Visa.
Prince Harry's inspiration for Travalyst came from an interaction with a 7-year-old boy during a visit to a coral reef replanting project in the Caribbean in 2012. The boy pointed out the environmental damage caused by outsiders, a powerful truth that deeply affected the Duke. This encounter underscored the need for responsible travel that can benefit communities for generations.
In addition to promoting sustainable tourism, Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle, through their Archewell Foundation, have pledged to combat climate change with a goal to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2030. The foundation plans to work with an independent consultant to track all Archewell-related activities and develop a plan for a more sustainable future, leveraging the expertise of Travalyst in this mission.
