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 of 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

Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria • 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 .

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

Thank you for your interest! www.gstcouncil.org Please support our mostly volunteer efforts – click on “Participate” to become a Member!