A successful GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training took place on October 1st and 2nd, 2024, at the AX Palace in Sliema, Malta. This event marked another step in the ongoing collaboration between the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), following the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed last year. The MOU aims to strengthen cooperation between both organizations and promote sustainability practices in Malta’s travel and tourism sectors by applying the globally recognized GSTC Criteria.
The training was led by Dr. Ioannis Pappas, GSTC Director for the Mediterranean Region, who shared his extensive knowledge through practical examples and industry insights. His sessions equipped participants with tools to implement sustainable practices in tourism businesses and destinations.
Mr. Carlo Micallef, CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority, expressed the significance of the event. “Sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity. We are proud to collaborate with the GSTC to bring this vital training to Malta, empowering our industry professionals to integrate sustainability into their operations. Through this partnership, Malta can lead the way in sustainable tourism across the Mediterranean.”
Dr Ioannis Pappas, as the trainer for this GSTC Sustainable Tourism Course, stated ‘it was a rewarding experience to engage with the dedicated hospitality professionals of Malta. The knowledge shared on the GSTC Criteria, coupled with global best practices, equips local hoteliers to lead the way in sustainability. By embracing these standards, they are not only preparing for certification but also contributing to a more responsible and sustainable future for tourism in Malta. I am confident that this training has laid a strong foundation for the next steps in their sustainability journey.’
Over the course of two days, 68 participants were educated on the GSTC Criteria—global standards for sustainability in travel and tourism. The event also featured guest speakers, including Thomas Loughlin, Program Manager for Sustainability at Booking.com, and Roza Tsirigoti, Social Responsibility Manager at NJV Athens Plaza Hotel, the first hotel in Greece to receive GSTC Certification. Maria Lougari, General Manager of Castelli Hotel in Zante, Greece, shared her experiences on their path toward GSTC Certification, offering participants firsthand insights into the journey of achieving sustainable excellence.
About the MTA
The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) has a diverse role, but one which in essence is all about creating and fostering relationships. The MTA is the tourism industry’s regulator and motivator, its business partner, the country’s brand promoter with the intent to form, maintain and manage meaningful partnerships with all tourism stakeholders.
Furthermore, MTA is also here to help strengthen the industry’s human resources, ensure the highest standards and quality of the Islands’ tourism product, and foster relations with local and international media. More information at: http://www.mta.com.mt
About GSTC
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council® (GSTC®) establishes and manages global sustainable standards, known as the GSTC Criteria. There are three sets: Destination Criteria for public policy-makers and destination managers, Industry Criteria for Hotels and Tour Operators, and MICE Criteria for Venues, Event Organizers, and Events & Exhibitions. These are the guiding principles and minimum requirements that any tourism business or destination should aspire to reach in order to protect and sustain the world’s natural and cultural resources while ensuring tourism meets its potential as a tool for conservation and poverty alleviation.
The GSTC Criteria form the foundation for GSTC’s assurance role for Certification Bodies that certify hotels/accommodations, tour operators, and destinations as having sustainable policies and practices in place. GSTC does not directly certify any products or services, but provides accreditation to those that do.
GSTC is an independent and neutral USA-registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization that represents a diverse and global membership, including national and provincial governments, leading travel companies, hotels, tour operators, NGOs, individuals and communities – all striving to achieve best practices in sustainable tourism. The GSTC is an ISEAL Community Member, a global membership organization for ambitious, collaborative, and transparent sustainability systems.
Information for media and the press: www.gstcouncil.org/about/for-the-press/
