Mandarin Oriental New York is the 1st hotel in North America to obtain GSTC Certification by UCSL United Certification Systems Limited, a GSTC-Accredited certification body.
The GSTC Certification is based on the global standard for sustainable tourism, the GSTC Hotel Criteria.
“We congratulate Mandarin Oriental New York on achieving accredited certification, the highest level of assurance of credible validation of hotel sustainability claims. Certified as a sustainable hotel, we hope Mandarin Oriental will inspire others in the region to prioritize sustainability, ” says Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC.
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) manages the GSTC Criteria, the global standards for sustainable travel and tourism and provides international accreditation for sustainable tourism Certification Bodies.
Accredited means that a Certification Body (CB) has been verified through a rigorous external review from an accreditation body whereby the GSTC provides assurance that the CB awards certification to businesses according to processes that comply with international standards and good practices.
“Achieving GSTC certification is an acknowledgment of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s dedication to sustainability and responsible tourism practices,” says Marcel Thoma, Mandarin Oriental, New York General Manager and Area Vice President, Operations. “Together with Mandarin Oriental, New York’s sustainability committee who worked diligently towards this certification, we are deeply honored and humbled to be the first hotel in North America to receive the esteemed distinction. It reflects our steadfast commitment to being responsible stewards of our environment and community, while continuing to offer unparalleled luxury to our guests. We are also grateful to UCSL for their professionalism and expertise throughout the certification process.”
Mandarin Oriental, New York’s sustainability initiatives are embedded into its daily operations, reflecting the broader sustainability objectives of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. Gaining GSTC-Committed status earlier this year, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group recognizes the value of implementing the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Criteria as global standards for sustainable tourism and hospitality across their geographic scope of operations internally and with their suppliers and stakeholders.
Olga Shuvalova, CEO of UCSL, says: « It is an honor to partner with Mandarin Oriental, New York on their sustainability journey. Their dedication to sustainability is a deeply ingrained principle that drives every operational decision while enhancing the exceptional guest experience. As the first hotel in North America to achieve GSTC Certification, they are leading by example and are setting new standards for responsible luxury in the region. We are proud to support such a dedicated team in achieving this important milestone. »
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/
About Mandarin Oriental, New York
A stunning fusion of modern design with stylish oriental flair, Mandarin Oriental, New York features 244 elegant guestrooms and suites with breathtaking views of Central Park, the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline. Luxurious amenities include all-day dining MO Lounge, an award-winning Spa and Wellness facility with a 75-foot indoor pool, and premium event spaces overlooking the iconic Central Park. Located in Columbus Circle’s Deutsche Bank Center, Mandarin Oriental, New York is in an idyllic location by world-class dining, shopping and entertainment, including the Broadway Theater District, Lincoln Center, and The Shops at Columbus Circle’s collection of luxury retail stores and renowned restaurants.
About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Recognised for creating exceptional properties, each destination reflects the Group’s oriental heritage, local culture and unique design. The Group’s mission is to completely delight and inspire guests through delivering passionate service. Having grown from its Asian roots over 60 years ago into a global brand, the Group now operates 41 hotels, 12 residences and 24 exclusive homes in 26 countries and territories with many more projects under development. Mandarin Oriental continues to drive its reputation as an innovative leader in luxury hospitality, delivering sustainable growth over the long term.
About UCSL United Certification Systems Limited
United Certification Systems Limited (UCSL) is an independent certification body, headquartered in the EU and operating worldwide. Proud to be one of the first GSTC-Accredited certification bodies, we provide certification services that align with the highest standards in luxury hospitality, bringing unparalleled expertise to the forefront. Driven by a deep passion for sustainability, we transcend the traditional role of a certification body, emerging as pioneers in research and education, spearheading positive change within the tourism industry.
Note: The term “GSTC-Certified” is shorthand for “certified by a Certification Body that is GSTC-Accredited.”
