The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) has released its Annual Report for 2023, showcasing the organization’s continued commitment to promoting sustainable tourism practices worldwide. The report highlights key achievements and strategic initiatives undertaken by GSTC over the past year, reflecting its dedication to fostering a more sustainable tourism industry.
“As we present our first annual report, I reflect with great pride and enthusiasm on our journey so far. The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) has been dedicated to setting global standards for sustainability in travel and tourism since 2007, aiming to foster a thriving and responsible tourism industry. Our core mission “to be an agent of change in the world of sustainable travel and tourism by fostering the increased knowledge, understanding, adoption and demand for sustainable tourism practices” is what propels us forward,” says Randy Durband, GSTC CEO.
The 2023 Annual Report details several significant milestones, such as the development of new sets of Criteria, in-house Accreditation, and the new GSTC-Committed program, among others. It also underscores the progress made in various initiatives, such as training and destination assessments, aimed at elevating sustainability across the tourism sector.
Another focal point of the report is GSTC’s collaborative efforts with international organizations and governments to promote sustainable tourism policies. These collaborations have been instrumental in driving policy changes and raising awareness about the importance of sustainable tourism practices.
Looking ahead, the 2023 Annual Report outlines GSTC’s strategic priorities for the coming year, focusing on enhancing its educational resources, expanding its reach, and fostering stronger collaborations with key stakeholders. GSTC remains committed to its mission of leading the global tourism industry toward a more sustainable and responsible future.
“Our members, partners, and industry stakeholders play an integral part in this collective effort, bringing diverse perspectives and solutions to the table. Together, we can overcome these obstacles and work towards a tourism industry that not only thrives but also contributes positively to the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants. I am confident that with our collective dedication, we can build a more sustainable and resilient future for tourism,” said Luigi Cabrini, GSTC Chair.
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. The 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.
Information for media and the press: www.gstcouncil.org/about/for-the-press/
