Travel & Tourism GSTC What is the GSTC? It is the leading - - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

Global Standards for Sustainability in Travel & Tourism GSTC

What is the GSTC? It is the leading global authority in setting standards for what can be called “sustainable” in travel & tourism

What is sustainable tourism?

• Sustainable tourism is not a niche
• Sustainable tourism is not a segment
• Sustainable tourism is, simply said,

“The Future Of Our Industry”

GSTC Founders, Members include:

• UNWTO, UNEP, UN Foundation
• Rainforest Alliance, IUCN,

Conservation International

• Sabre, Travelocity, Expedia, TUI,

Marriott, Royal Caribbean, Fairmont

• PATA, ATTA, ASTA, ANVR

GSTC Mission

• Foster knowledge and understanding
• f sustainable tourism practices
• Promote the adoption of sustainable

tourism principles

• Build demand for sustainable Travel

GSTC Objectives

• International Standards Setting
• Destinations Stewardship
• Accreditation
• Education and Training
• Market Access

• Created with the input of experts,

groups and companies from around the planet.

• Define sustainable tourism in a way

that is actionable, measurable and credible.

• A minimum standard of

sustainability for tourism businesses and destinations across the globe. Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria

Criteria Applicability

• For lodging, tour operators,

destinations

• Worldwide applicability
• Suitable for developed and

developing countries

• For large and small businesses
• For urban, rural, and natural areas
• Considering traditional and

indigenous communities

Accreditation Process

• The GSTC provides three levels of

accreditation for Certification bodies: “GSTC Recognized”, “GSTC Approved” and “GSTC Accredited”

• Assurance to travelers and travel

professionals that hotels, tour operators and destinations are certified by reputable organizations with thorough and rigorous certification requirements

GSTC Achievements

• Criteria for Sustainability:

Hotels & Tour Operators (2008, 2012) Destinations (released Nov 1, 2013)

• Accreditation of Certification Bodies:

17 Recognized & 1 Approved

• Destinations Stewardship:

10 Early Adopters + 5 more by 12/31

GSTC Future Plans

• Criteria development for all Sectors
• f the Travel and Tourism Industry
• Certification Bodies “Accredited”
• Certification of Destination Standards
• New Destination Partner Program
• Global “Train the Trainer” Courses
• Trade Associations Partnerships

www.gstcouncil.org

Please support our mostly volunteer efforts – click on “Participate” to become a Member!

Thank you for your interest!