Thankyou, dearBFF...
for driving positive change in travel
Travel opens our minds, introduces us to new cultures, and reshapes our perspectives. Yet, as we explore this incredible world, we must acknowledge the impact we have on natural habitats and local communities.
As a Butterfly Friend (BFF), you are part of a movement dedicated to transforming the travel industry for the better Together, we strive to create lasting, systemic change - minimizing harm, supporting certified climate initiatives, funding local projects, and empowering grassroots activists who are making a real difference on the ground
The demand for responsible travel is growing, and we must lead by example Your time, contributions, engagement, and feedback are instrumental in shaping a healthier planet, fostering economic resilience, and reducing global inequalities
This second edition of our annual Impact Report reflects on the progress we made in 2024 - thanks in part to your support Every step - no matter how smallbrings us closer to a more responsible and equitable travel industry and inevitably contributes to a better world for us to live in
Thank you for being part of this journey!
Harry ButterflyFoundation
FButterflyoundation
“Youhavewithinyouthepowerto changetheworld.Everythingyou do,beiteversosmall,matters.”
~TheButterflyEffect
Imagine a butterfly flapping its wings in the Brazilian rainforest - this tiny movement could, in time, set off a chain reaction leading to a tornado in Texas. This is The Butterfly Effect: the idea that small actions, compounded over time, can create profound and disproportionate change
We’ve embraced this concept to drive a force for positive impact In January 2024, what began as a mere idea emerged from its cocoon as the Butterfly Foundation - a movement dedicated to reshaping the travel industry for the better
As passionate world travelers, we quickly recognized that exploring the world comes with a cost Wildlife disruption, pollution, excessive carbon emissions, and the overuse of natural resources are just a few of the harmful consequences of modern travel
To counterbalance this, Butterfly Foundation is committed to social and ecological responsibility, supporting education, rewilding, regeneration, and clean energy initiatives that benefit both people and the planet
We believe that every action - big or small - moves us closer to a more responsible travel industry. Whether you take a train instead of a plane, choose plant-based meals, support local charities, or offset your carbon footprint, each decision has the power to create ripples of positive change. Be that butterfly.
As a non-profit, for-purpose organization, our work is funded by travel companies and responsible travelers committed to doing the right thing Guided by the three P’s (Planet, People, and Profit), we strive to protect ecosystems, combat climate change, and drive meaningful social impact while managing our resources responsibly
Stay tuned, Butterfly Foundation is just beginning to spread its wings And with your support, we can soar even higher, creating a lasting impact for future generations
Becausewebelievetravelshould alsohaveapositiveimpact.
OUR MISSION
Butterfly Foundation wants to leave a positive impact on people and the environment and show that you can also use 'travel' as a tool to fight the climate crisis and social imbalances
Crafting unforgettable travel experiences often comes at an environmental and social cost. The reality is that movement inherently leaves a footprint, making responsible travel a challenge. But challenges inspire change.
When a butterfly flaps its wings, it can trigger a whirlwind on the other side of the globe. In the same way, small, positive changes, when made consistently, can lead to a massive positive impact over time. This Butterfly Effect is the core mission of the Butterfly Foundation. Let’s spread our wings and create a positive whirlwind together!
OUR GOALS
What do we want to achieve?
VALUES
OUR STORY
Butterfly Foundation was established in 2024 by Travelbase, a fast-growing travel company with over 20 unique travel brands and communities specializing in nature and adventure travel
As a travel company, minimizing environmental impact requires more than just good intentionsit demands action Travelbase supports certified climate initiatives, partners with CO₂ calculator organizations like Greentripper, and educates travelers about their carbon footprint Each Travelbase team includes dedicated Green Guardians, who focus on sustainability efforts and collaborate with local charities to make every trip more eco-friendly
Currently, Travelbase is responsible for the majority of the funding for the Butterfly Foundation Travelbase donates 1% of the revenue from its financially healthy business units to the Butterfly Foundation
So, when you book a trip with Travelbase, you’re also supporting the Butterfly Foundation, which allocates these funds to non-profit organizations linked to your travel destination. This way, while exploring the world, you also contribute to a more sustainable travel sector.
In addition to contributions from Travelbase, the Butterfly Foundation also relies on one-time donations and monthly supporters – our BFFs (Butterfly Friends) – who help create lasting and meaningful change
IMPACT GOALS FOR 2025
WHO IS FUNDING US?
THE 1% RULE
1% for the Planet connects businesses with non-profits that align with their values. Inspired by this initiative, Butterfly Foundation urges travel companies to commit to donating 1% of their annual revenue - not just their profits - to selected non-profits linked to the locations where they operate. This contribution is seen as a tax for using the planet's resources and supports environmental and social causes around the world.
You are also playing a big role in this. The more people can join our mission, the greater the positive impact on local ecosystems and the planet. In 2022, 2023, and 2024 combined, we have raised €386.216 from donors, of which 100% is being donated to immediate impact projects
At the moment, Travelbase is responsible for most of the funding of the Butterfly Foundation Travelbase gives 1% of the revenue of ‘financially healthy’ business units to the Butterfly Foundation ‘Financially healthy’ means all trips where the overarching business unit has a profit margin of 10% or more.
By booking a trip with Travelbase, 1% of your trip cost goes directly to the Butterfly Foundation, which distributes these funds to activists and non-profit organizations connected to your travel destination. This means that while you explore the world, you’re also helping to build a more responsible travel industry.
Beyond trip-based contributions, Butterfly Foundation also relies on one-time donations and monthly supporters - our BFFs (Butterfly Friends) - who help drive long-term, meaningful change.
STRATEGIC CARBON PARTNER
CARBON OFFSETTING?
The CO₂e* emissions of your chosen means of transport to the destination undoubtedly have the greatest environmental impact. Carbon offsetting is sometimes referred to as the biggest greenwashing scam of the travel industry. We strongly believe that, if done correctly, it is still a lot more ethical than not taking any responsibility for your emissions at all.
Since 2023, a large part of the foundation’s budget, €56.507, has been used to pay for carbon credits. This allowed us to sequester 1.619,75 tonnes of CO₂e from the atmosphere back into the soil where it belongs
We are working together with Greentripper, who independently calculates the emissions of your trips and invests them in VCS-certified climate projects. For 2023 and 2024, Butterfly Foundation and Travelbase chose to fund the Wildlife Cambodia climate project This combats deforestation, elephant poaching, and illegal wildlife trade, while creating sustainable income opportunities for local communities Every customer who contributes to this project receives an official carbon-credit certificate
Travelbase also makes an additional contribution to cover the limited on-site emissions of all their crew, team members, and partners.
*CO₂e = CO₂-equivalent
There are various types of greenhouse gases - not just carbon dioxide - and they can all be expressed in terms of CO₂-equivalent
DISCOVER BEAUTY IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD
We encourage travel agencies to minimize their carbon footprint by promoting trips closer to home and inspiring travelers to explore their own surroundings
Beauty can be found everywhere - you don’t always have to venture far to discover something extraordinary.
Short micro-adventures and weekend getaways are becoming increasingly popular, proving that meaningful travel doesn’t require long distances.
2025-CleanCookstoves
Call to action: Replace all dirty cookstoves with culturally appropriate clean cookstoves that reduce or eliminate black carbon emissions and prevent illness and death from air pollution
Conventional cooking on open fires or basic stoves wastes fuel, endangers health, and harms the environment Gathering wood or charcoal also demands significant time and expense From 2025 on, Butterfly Foundation is contributing to the Cookstove Projects from Greentripper, which distribute highefficiency stoves to preserve forests, support families, stimulate local economies, and improve health
REDUCING CO₂ EMISSIONS AND SAVING TREES
These stoves cut daily fuel needs by about 50%, reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and easing pressure on forests and biodiversity.
IMPROVING LIVELIHOODS & EMPOWERING WOMEN
Burning less wood and charcoal means less smoke and better air circulation, which lowers respiratory illness rates Fuel costs drop to around a quarter of typical spending, freeing up household budgets Women regain hours once spent collecting firewood for income-earning activities, and children - especially girls - gain time to attend school
CREATING EMPLOYMENT
A fully local supply chain - from production to distribution - widens access to cookstoves while generating jobs for manufacturers, sellers, and installers, driving community growth
OUR HEROES
WITHOUT THEM, OUR WORK WOULD BE IMPOSSIBLE
Stichting Buitenfonds supports nature projects in collaboration with Staatsbosbeheer Thanks to donations, the foundation can implement initiatives that protect nature and make it accessible for current and future generations
Rivières Sauvages is dedicated to protecting the last untouched rivers in France and Europe Through the “Site Rivières Sauvages” label, research, and education, the organization ensures that these unique ecosystems are preserved
Balkan River Defence is the largest grassroots movement for river protection in Europe With a mix of adventure, science, and activism, they are fighting against the construction of thousands of harmful hydropower plants in the Balkans
River Collective is a network of students, researchers, conservationists, and kayakers dedicated to the protection of free-flowing rivers Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, they combat the uncontrolled development of hydropower plants and other threats to river ecosystems
Mooimakers is the Flemish initiative that fights against litter and illegal dumping They help citizens, businesses, and local governments improve public cleanliness and achieve lasting behavior change
EcoAlbania is dedicated to protecting Albania's biodiversity, with special attention to rivers like the Vjosa, one of the last wild rivers in Europe
Balkan Rivers are home to some of the last free-flowing and wild rivers in Europe These rivers are essential for biodiversity, local communities, and the climate However, thousands of hydropower projects threaten their future
Fjord CleanUP is dedicated to cleaning up and restoring the Oslofjord, an ecosystem threatened by waste and pollution From electric scooters to plastic waste, the organization collaborates with volunteers and businesses to make the fjord clean and healthy again
Staatsbosbeheer manages the green heritage of the Netherlands; 270,000 hectares of nature that they protect and sustainably use, ensuring rich biodiversity, climate-resilient nature, and a place where everyone can enjoy the outdoors
Join For Water works globally to protect water and nature for current and future generations Because water is the source of all life
Free Rivers Fund provides financial support to activists and conservation groups dedicated to preserving free-flowing rivers and preventing dam constructions
River Cleanup is a Belgian non-profit organization dedicated to cleaning rivers and preventing plastic pollution Since its founding in 2019, the organization has expanded to over 100 countries and, together with volunteers, has removed millions of kilos of waste from rivers
IN THE FIELD
WITHOUT THEM, OUR WORK WOULD BE IMPOSSIBLE
Skogselskapet is a Norwegian non-profit organization dedicated to sustainable forest management and the preservation of forests as a valuable natural resource
Since its inception, the organization has promoted awareness of the ecological and economic value of forests
Protect The Forest as it is our largest land-based ecosystem Natural forests store large amounts of carbon and influence the climate, purify the air we breathe, are part of the water cycle, provide habitats for countless species, and form the basis for a wide range of other ecological functions that we all depend on!
Wild Wonders Foundation uses the power of visual storytelling to support nature conservation worldwide Through photography, film, and educational projects, they highlight the beauty of the wild while also showcasing the threats and solutions The organization collaborates with conservationists, scientists, and local communities to drive positive change
Animals Need Me is dedicated to rescuing, caring for, and rehoming stray animals in Albania Their mission is to protect dogs, cats, and other vulnerable animals through shelter, adoption, and education
Norwegian Society for Nature Conservation, is the oldest and largest environmental organization in Norway. With over 20,000 members and 100 local chapters, the organization is committed to nature conservation and sustainable development throughout Norway.
The Finnish Natural Heritage Foundation is dedicated to the purchase and protection of ancient forests in Finland. By securing valuable natural areas, we help endangered species, improve biodiversity, and preserve wilderness for the future
The Swedish Carnivore Association is dedicated to the conservation and protection of Sweden's large predators: the wolf, lynx, bear, and wolverine These animals play a crucial role in the ecosystem but are threatened by hunting and political policies The organization works through education, political influence, and legal actions to ensure a future where humans and predators coexist in balance
Tierhilfe Tirana is dedicated to rescuing and caring for stray dogs, cats, and farm animals like horses, sheep, and chickens in Albania With limited resources and many animals in need, the organization provides medical care, food, and a safe place for these animals to have a better life
Nature and Youth is the largest environmental movement for young people in Norway. Since the 1960s, the organization has been committed to climate justice and conservation They give young people a voice and fight against pollution and destructive industries
Baiboosun is a nature reserve in Kyrgyzstan, established to protect the endangered snow leopards and preserve their natural habitat The reserve plays a crucial role in conserving biodiversity in the region and collaborates with local communities to promote sustainable practices and combat illegal hunting
SOS Animal Sri Lanka is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating stray dogs and cats in Sri Lanka With over 3 million stray dogs, the organization provides medical care, shelter, and hope to animals in need
Dog Care Clinic is an animal clinic in Sri Lanka, established to improve the care of injured, sick, and neglected dogs With a focus on humanitarian care and rehabilitation, the clinic provides a safe haven for dogs that might otherwise have no chance of recovery
PARTNERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Butterfly Foundation tries to make a positive change for each destination by partnering with one or more nonprofits that are fully committed to making a positive impact on local culture or ecosystems Here are some of the projects we supported in 2024
ECOALBANIA
Albania has unique, pristine natural areas that are threatened by large-scale hydropower projects and pollution. EcoAlbania aims to protect the environment and promote sustainable management of natural resources.
They are fighting for the Vjosa and other Albanian rivers to flow freely They are making a difference by raising awareness about environmental protection among the local population and by collaborating with international organizations like Butterfly Foundation to improve legislation
MOSSY EARTH
FJORD CLEANUP
Fjord CleanUP aims for a waste-free Oslofjord. Their mission is to reduce marine waste, restore ecosystems, and involve the community in sustainable water management. They provide long-term solutions, such as reducing waste streams and promoting awareness. How?
Cleanup actions: volunteers remove trash from the water and along the coastline. Autonomous waste solutions: Aqua Pods independently collect waste from the fjord Ecological restoration: Projects like McWeed promote the growth of seaweed, which helps filter the water and restore ecosystems
The mission of Mossy Earth is to restore ecosystems and bring key species back to their natural habitats Their goal is to create healthier environments that benefit both wildlife and local communities They also aim to promote sustainable practices in conservation, such as offsetting CO2 emissions and supporting responsible ecotourism Mossy Earth focuses on rewilding projects that involve habitat restoration, reintroducing animal species, and protecting crucial ecosystems
Their projects are global, ranging from restoring forests and wetlands to regenerating coral reefs These efforts help rebuild biodiversity and create sustainable ecosystems that support both wildlife and human communities They track and report their impact to ensure transparency Butterfly Foundation has bought 70 Mossy Earth rewilding memberships so far
In Sri Lanka, DCC 50+ program finds homes for overlooked dogs (unwanted, disabled, or older) by pairing them with elderly or disabled locals. In return, families receive a monthly pension and support.
Adoptions require regular check-ins, ensuring proper care, with free medical support provided This initiative benefits dogs, families, and communities, fostering empathy across generations
Baiboosun's mission is to preserve the snow leopard population in Kyrgyzstan by protecting their natural habitat and promoting coexistence between humans and nature Thanks to the ongoing support of Butterfly Foundation, park ranger Batirbek can pay a wage for extra staff to help check the cameras and fences for repairs
Butterfly Foundation helps Baiboosun to promote ecotourism as an alternative source of income for the local community They are now running educational programs to raise awareness among local communities about the value of biodiversity and the importance of preserving their natural environment
A ♥ FOR THE ANIMALS
Butterfly Foundation wants end excessive trophy hunting of large predators in Sweden We partnered with Swedish Carnivore Association & Wild Wonders Foundation to try to maintain strict protection status for all large predators within the EU
Their campaign SwedensBigFive.org spreads reliable information about predators through journalism and visual materials. By raising awareness about the importance of predators in the ecosystem and the dangers of overhunting, they are aiming to influence the media and policymakers to change EU policies in favor of the large predators in Sweden
ANIMALS NEED ME
Thanks to our support, Albanian rescue organization Animals Need Me were able to sterilize 20 animals (6 cats and 14 dogs).
They made sure to vaccinate and deworm them before releasing them in their territory. To be continued!
SWEDEN’S BIG FIVE
DOG CARE CLINIC SRI LANKA
BAIBOOSUN NATURE RESERVE
NEXT
More partnerships
In 2025, Butterfly Foundation aims to spread its wings and collaborate with at least 100 non-profits across different countries you can travel to
The foundation raises funds within the travel sector through private donors and travel organizations. These funds are then directed to various non-profit organizations connected to your trip.
Our philosophy, along with our partners’, is based on the Triple Bottom Line model This business model states that success isn’t just about chasing profits A healthy, successful organization has 3 core responsibilities that are inextricably linked: Planet, People & Profit
For a healthier Planet
Under the banner #Planet, we focus our efforts on 4 categories that contribute to a more liveable world
Rewilding
Creating wilderness on both small and large scales allows natural processes to restart organically By reintroducing wildlife and plants, local nature and communities can flourish again
Regenerate
Following the natural recovery process by stimulating biodiversity and complexity. This is a radically new approach to tackling the climate crisis in just 1 generation's time (±25 years).
Preserve
Preservation means protecting existing ecosystems and not allowing any mining People are only allowed to use natural areas for recreation, such as national parks
Conserve
Conservation literally means the safeguarding of ecosystems Exploitation by humans is allowed responsibly, so that the next generations can continue to enjoy them well into the future
STEPS
For a wealthier People
Under the banner #People, we focus our efforts on four categories that contribute to a more equitable world.
Educate
Access to quality education is essential, yet many children under 12 lack it Girls face particular barriers, though their education could significantly benefit a nation's health, food security, and economy
Saving Lives
Our goal is healthy lives for all By replacing traditional cookstoves with clean alternatives, for instance, we aim to reduce black carbon emissions, preventing illness and premature deaths from air pollution.
Ending Hunger
We work to ensure food security, improve food quality, and promote sustainable agriculture Our efforts address human health, agricultural pollution, food inequality, climate change, and cultural and biological diversity
Clean Energy for All
Our mission is affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy access for everyone. We're committed to replacing fossil fuels with wind, solar, electric vehicles, and heat pumps across all sectors to combat climate change and ensure a cleaner future
Give away more money
When it comes to #Profit, we try to maximize the impact of your donation.
In 2024, we were able to donate almost 70% of our funds
By the end of the 2025 tax year, we aim to at least double our impact, by donating more money, getting more partners on board and reducing more greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere
IN THE PIPELINE
Rebuilding trails in Summer
Butterfly Foundation is proudly collaborating with Trailteam Iceland and Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment (PPNEA) in Albania to preserve two of Europe’s most breathtaking trails: Landmannalaugar in Iceland and the Peaks of the Balkans in Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo.
In June 2025, we are sending our Iceland Trail guides to volunteer on the Landmannalaugar Trail, working alongside Trailteam Iceland to build drainage systems, repair stairways, and plant trees to prevent erosion and restore damaged areas. This hands-on approach ensures the longevity of this popular hiking route while respecting Iceland’s delicate environment
Meanwhile, in July 2025, our Balkan trail guides are teaming up with PPNEA to tackle essential conservation work, including wildfire and wildlife monitoring, garbage cleanups, and general trail maintenance By reducing human impact and protecting biodiversity, we help secure the future of this stunning transnational trail
River Cleanup on May 26th
Butterfly Foundation is organizing our second River Cleanup in collaboration with The Packraft Trail, and everyone is welcome to join for free
Volunteers can use packrafts on the Semoy River to help remove waste and protect the river banks from trash Sign up here and join for free
YOU’RE
PART OF
THE SOLUTION
BFF IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Join as a non profit partner
Are you a non-profit organisation or activist group still looking for funding? We would love to work together with you! The more wings, the stronger the positive impact!
Or are you an influencer, journalist, politician or opinion maker with a heart for philanthropy?
We'd love to see how we can make a difference together, get in touch via email
Donate your time
Events organized by the Butterfly Foundation and partner organizations appear on our webpage. Volunteer work ranges from river cleanups to trail maintenance, tree planting and protest actions.
If you want to do more than just donate money and would like to make a tangible difference in the field, you can sign up for the events and experience the Butterfly Effect in real life
Butterfly Foundation is thrilled with the incredible efforts made so far, and you can help us reach our 2025 goals. In order to create a more responsible travel industry, there are several ways you can contribute.
Become a BFF
As a BFF, you'll join our community of monthly donors You’ll be investing in the well-being of our planet and our people
Whether you're an employee, employer, parent, friend, or simply a conscientious human being, becoming a BFF is the right thing to do!
Your recurring contributions make our work possible, and you’ll make a statement for the well-being of future generations. Every little bit helps, and as the Butterfly Effect states, collective action adds up.
“Smallacts,multipliedbymillions ofpeople,canchangetheworld.”
~HowardZinn
KELLY FROM ROOFTOP RUSH ♥
“Themostimportantrightwehave, istherighttoberesponsible.”
–GeraldAmos