Solution: GSTC Sustainable Tourism

Overview

GSTC Recognition is a status granted to a set of standards, criteria, or programs that are equivalent to or aligned with the GSTC Criteria. These standards are recognized as meeting the four pillars of GSTC Criteria:

• Environmental sustainability – e.g., resource conservation, reducing pollution
• Social sustainability – e.g., labor rights, community benefits
• Cultural sustainability – e.g., preserving local culture, heritage, traditions
• Management – e.g., monitoring, planning, and continuous improvement

Why it matters: It signals that the standards or guidelines being used are globally recognized as aligned with sustainable tourism principles, even if no formal certification process is involved.