GSN Planet Announces 2025/2026 Sustainability Award Finalists
Honoring Leadership, Innovation & Heart in the Wellness and Hospitality Sectors
September 27, 2025 – GSN Planet is thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2025/2026 GSN Planet Sustainability Awards, recognizing excellence in environmental and social sustainability across the spa, wellness, and hospitality industries. This year’s awards spotlight visionary organizations and individuals who embody the principles of innovation, compassion, and commitment to a greener and more inclusive world. From long-standing leaders to impactful newcomers, the finalists exemplify what it means to lead with both purpose and heart.
Maggy Dunphy, President of GSN commented that “This year’s finalists exemplify The Power of One—how a single idea or action can drive meaningful change. We’re inspired by their innovation, compassion, and leadership, and deeply grateful for all the nominations that reflect a shared commitment to GSN’s mission: connecting personal well-being, economic sustainability, and the health of our planet.”
Mike Bruggeman, GSN Planet Advisory Board Chair, added: “I sincerely thank the GSN Strategic Advisory Board for their continued leadership and participation in narrowing the choices to the top three in each category. I know I speak for the Board in that this year the decisions were extremely difficult as truly all nominees should be celebrated for their remarkable efforts as leaders in spa, wellness and brand sustainability.”
2025 Finalists by Category
Sustainable Trailblazer – Lisa Henry Jacobs Award (NEW)
Honoring the enduring legacy of Lisa Henry Jacobs, this award celebrates a trailblazer whose work reflects her compassion, integrity, and devotion to meaningful sustainability.
Finalists: OSEA / Jenefer Palmer, Acrely Farms, Hillary Peterson / True Botanicals
Sustainable Newcomer – Tracie Wertz Award
Recognizing individuals and organizations new to their sustainability journey who have already made a meaningful impact.
Finalists: True Botanicals, N8iV Beauty, AKAR Skin
Sustainable Innovator – Tara Grodjesk Award
Celebrating innovation and excellence in sustainable product development, packaging, sourcing, and community impact.
Finalists: True Botanicals, ABATURE, Force of Nature / HCI Cleaning Products
Sustainable Spa/Wellness Facility – Michael Stusser Award
Honoring spa and wellness facilities that lead with sustainability across all aspects of operations, design, and community engagement.
Finalists: Acquaforte Thalasso and Spa – Forte Village Resort, The Spa at Spruce Peak, Bamford Wellness Spa at 1 Hotel Nashville
GSN Planet extends heartfelt thanks to the GSN Strategic Advisory Board for their time, insight, and dedication during the first round of voting. Their thoughtful review and expertise were instrumental in identifying this year’s outstanding group of finalists.
Thank you to:
Advisory Board Chair Mike Bruggeman along with Advisory Board Members: Catherine Warren, Patti Neumeier, Daniel Spencer, Karen Short, Kirsten Bergstrom, Wendy Nierel, Noel Asmar, Emma McGrady, Sallie Fraenkel, Rachael McCrory, Jean-Guy de Gabriac, and Cassie Hernandez for your invaluable contribution to this process.
Winners will be revealed and celebrated during the GSN Planet Sustainability Summit, October 19–22, at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in Indian Wells, CA.
About GSN Planet
GSN Planet is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit trade association serving the spa, wellness, and hospitality industries in support of a sustainable future. Its mission is to promote the vital connections between personal well-being, economic sustainability, and the health of our planet. Through networking, education, and best practices developed with its community of innovative green spas, GSN is a resource for vital people building a vital planet.
Press Contacts:
Dara Mayhew
GSN Executive Director
[email protected]
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