On December 6, 2024, the Opera & Ballet Theatre in Tirana became a hub of dialogue and collaboration during the National Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development in Albania. This landmark event organized by The Ministry of Tourism and Environment in cooperation with Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) supported project, RisiAlbania, implemented by Helvetas and Partners Albania, brought together key stakeholders from Albania’s tourism sector, including industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability advocates, to discuss and promote sustainable tourism practices.
The conference commenced with welcoming remarks and an opening address by Mrs. Mirela Kumbaro, Minister of Tourism and Environment of Albania. Mrs. Kumbaro highlighted Albania’s dedication to sustainable tourism and the recent MoU with GSTC. H.E. Ruth Huber, Ambassador of Switzerland in Albania, then expressed Switzerland’s support for Albania’s efforts in advancing sustainable tourism.
During the conference, Mr. Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC, delivered an insightful presentation titled “Albania’s Commitment to Global Standards: Becoming a GSTC Member,” where he elaborated on Albania’s commitment to global standards and the importance of quality management for sustainability.
Participants also gained insights from Ms. Cordula Wohlmuther, UN Tourism Director ad interim for the Regional Department for Europe, who discussed global perspectives and regional strategies for sustainable tourism.
In the panel discussion titled “Achieving Certification through a GSTC-Accredited Certification Body,” Mr. Randy Durband joined Mr. Christos Markopoulos, General Manager, RoyalCert International Registrars, Mr. Giorgio Caire di Lauzet, CEO, Dream & Charme Srl and Mrs. Olga Shuvalova, CEO, UCSL-United Certification Systems Limited, all representing GSTC Accredited Certification Bodies. Additionally, GSTC-Accredited CB Green Destinations was represented at the event by Ms. Terena Caldwell.
Together, they explored the pathways and challenges of obtaining GSTC-Accredited certification for tourism businesses in Albania. The discussion focused on the tangible benefits of certification, such as increased market competitiveness and trust among travelers. Drawing from real-world examples, the panelists shared practical strategies for Albanian businesses to successfully navigate the certification process, reinforcing its critical role in promoting sustainable tourism practices across the country.
The conference featured other panel discussions, with topics such as the National Tourism Strategy, the integration of the GSTC Criteria, and the implementation of sustainable tourism practices in Albania. Esteemed panelists, including Mrs. Ilva Gjuzi, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment of Albania, and Prof. Urs Wagenseil from Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts and GSTC Trainer, shared their expertise and experiences.
Attendees also had the opportunity to network with GSTC-Accredited Certification Bodies, Albanian private businesses, and international experts during the networking session. The event fostered a shared commitment to advancing responsible tourism and showcased Albania’s potential as a sustainable travel destination.
