Klook has joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) as a member.
Klook is Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services that allows travelers to discover and book quality experiences ranging from attractions and tours to local transport and experiential stays around the world.
With more than 1,800 employees across over 30 locations worldwide, Klook’s services are available in 15 languages, support 40 currencies, and offer half a million offerings in over 2,700 destinations on its travel platform.
GSTC Welcomes Klook
“We are pleased to welcome Klook as a new member of the GSTC. We believe that all of our members can become agents of change in the world of sustainable travel and tourism. We look forward to working with Klook to advance sustainable tourism practices in the industry,” says Randy Durband, GSTC CEO.
“This achievement marks a significant step towards our commitment to raising the standards of sustainable tourism and creating lasting change, starting with Asia, said Vincent Ng, General Counsel, Head of Public Affairs at Klook. “At Klook, we are helping travelers find joy in experiences that spotlight each destination’s rich heritage and unique beauty while also contributing to communities. We are excited to be a member of the GSTC and amplify our efforts in enabling more responsible and sustainable travel.”
Sustainability Commitment
Klook’s Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) has an initial focus on communities, animal welfare and climate impact.
Animal tourism plays a unique role in providing economic opportunities for local communities, particularly in Asia. In fact, Thailand records the largest number of elephants used in tourism.
In a significant move to elevate Animal Welfare Standards in Asia, Klook developed its animal welfare policy to improve the lives of animals in the travel space as well as the communities that rely on them. Klook has been collaborating with operators and NGOs to lead the charge in the promotion and education of sustainable animal practices that will ensure long-term change.
This aligns with Klook’s broader mission to bring the world closer together through experiences that not only brings joy to travelers, but also drives sustainable and responsible tourism which protects the environment, its animals and positively impacts local communities.
Klook Launches Elephant Camp Assessment Program
[Nicolas Dubrocard, Managing Director at ACES and Rebecca Keiller, Senior Sustainability Manager at Klook with Khun Fai at Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Phuket]
Klook Introduces Certified Sustainable Partner Badge
Klook recently launched its « Certified Sustainable Partner » program as a way to feature operators who are making strides in the journey towards creating a positive social or environmental impact.
The « Certified Sustainable Partner » activities are offered by tour and activity operators listed on Klook that adhere to globally recognised sustainability standards awarded by approved third party certifications. With over 200 certified sustainable activities to date, travelers will have more opportunities and options to make eco-conscious choices across various destinations.
About Klook
Klook is Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services. We curate quality experiences ranging from attractions and tours to local transport and experiential stays, in over 2,700 destinations globally. Founded in 2014, we are here to inspire and enable more moments of joy for travelers anytime, anywhere.
More information here: www.klook.com
About ACES
Asian Captive Elephant Standards (ACES) serve as the independent, reliable, and transparent link between the tourism industry and captive elephant welfare. The camp guidelines were developed in 2015, and after extensive consultation, a set of over 222 strict camp criteria was established. All criteria have been independently validated by international specialists in elephant management, veterinary care, and animal welfare. The goal is to ensure Asian elephant welfare while addressing the needs of the community and tourism stakeholders.
More information here: https://www.elephantstandards.com/about-aces
About the 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/
Statements expressed in this announcement are presented for informational purposes only and should not be taken as an endorsement or recommendation by GSTC, unless clearly stated.
