GSTC Training Supporting Materials v4

GSTC
Sustainable Tourism Training Program

Training Class Supporting Materials

Table of Contents
I. Introduction to the GSTC 2
About the GSTC 2
Accreditation vs. Certification 2
GSTC Accreditation for Certifying Bodies 2
II. Introduction to Sustainable Tourism 3
UNWTO Definition 3
12 Aims for Sustainable Tourism 3
Tourism and SDGs 4
II. GSTC Industry Criteria for Hotels & Tour Operators 4
Guidelines for Hotels and Tour Operators 4
GSTC Criteria and Indicators for Hotels and Tour Operators 4
A: Demonstrate effective sustainable management 4
B: Maximize social & economic benefits to the local community; minimize negative impacts 8
C: Maximize benefits to cultural heritage and minimize negative impacts 11
D: Maximize benefits to the environment and minimize negative impacts 12
III. GSTC Criteria for Destinations 19
Guidelines for Destinations 19
GSTC Criteria and Indicators for Destinations 19
A: Demonstrate sustainable destination management 19
B: Maximize economic benefits to the host community & minimize negative impacts 22
C: Maximize benefits to communities, visitors, and culture; minimize negative impacts 23
D: Maximize benefits to the environment and minimize negative impacts 24
V. GSTC Glossary of Terms 26
Last updated: 10 Feb 2018

GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training
I. Introduction to the GSTC

About the GSTC
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) establishes and manages global sustainable standards with the aim of
increasing sustainable tourism knowledge and practices among public and private stakeholders. The GSTC is
independent and neutral, serving the important roles of managing its global baseline standards for sustainability in
travel and tourism (GSTC Criteria) and building demand for sustainable travel.

The following are the key program areas of the GSTC.
• Developing International Standards: The GSTC Criteria, the baseline standards for sustainability in global
travel and tourism, serves as the minimum requirements that any tourism stakeholder should aspire to
reach.
• Making Destinations Sustainable: The GSTC’s destination program helps destinations apply the GSTC
Criteria to their destination stewardship efforts to maintain the cultural, environmental, economic, and
aesthetic integrity of tourism destinations.
• Promoting Market Access: The GSTC promotes the development of broad market adoption of the GSTC
Criteria. With the ultimate goal of increasing demand for sustainable tourism offerings and building trust
amongst travelers, the GSTC works to identify opportunities and solutions for greater market potential.
• Increasing Knowledge: The GSTC is committed to ensuring that sustainable tourism best practices are
adopted and implemented by the industry and the traveling public, and leads efforts in developing and
identifying the best available tools and resources to facilitate the transition to sustainable practices.

The GSTC strives to promote sustainable tourism through a common language, and one of its key objectives is to
facilitate the adoption and creation of universal principles for sustainable tourism.
Accreditation vs. Certification

The GSTC is an accreditation body that recognizes and accredits those standard providers and certification programs
(certifying bodies) that follow procedures complying with GSTC requirements for transparency, impartiality, and
technical competence. The GSTC Accreditation Panel works to recognize sustainable tourism standards and
certification programs that are credible, transparent, impartial, and comply with the GSTC Criteria.
GSTC Accreditation for Certifying Bodies

The GSTC offers a step-wise process to ensure that sustainable tourism standards and certification programs meet or
exceed the global baseline standards of sustainability, the GSTC Criteria. This process is not applicable for individual
businesses such as hotels or tour operators.
The following are the stages of the GSTC Accreditation Process:
1. GSTC-Recognized: This applies to standards that wish to become GSTC-Recognized. Once recognized, these
standards are considered equivalent to the GSTC Criteria.
2. GSTC-Accredited: This applies to certification programs to ensure the program meets GSTC requirements
for processes and procedures. To apply, certification programs must use a GSTC-Recognized standard, pass
a desk-audit by the GSTC technical team and receive final authorization from the GSTC Accreditation Panel.

*The “GSTC Recognized” status for the standards only, and is NOT a verification of the quality of the certification
bodies using those standards.

GSTC Accredited certification bodies:
• For tour operators and hotels (https://www.gstcouncil.org/certification/become-certified-tour-operator/)
• For destinations (https://www.gstcouncil.org/certification/become-certified-destination/)

GSTC Recognized standards:
• For tour operators and hotels (https://www.gstcouncil.org/gstc-criteria/gstc-recognized-standards-for-
hotel-and-tour-operator/)
• For destinations (https://www.gstcouncil.org/gstc-criteria/gstc-recognized-standards-for-destinations/)

2
II. Introduction to Sustainable Tourism

UNWTO Definition
Sustainable tourism is on the rise: consumer demand is growing, an increasing number of travel and tourism
businesses are developing sustainability initiatives, and governments and destinations are creating policies to
encourage sustainable practices in tourism. But what does sustainable tourism really mean?

Sustainable tourism is defined by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as “Tourism that takes
full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors,
the industry, the environment and host communities”, with an emphasis on the following three areas as principles
required for the long-term sustainability of the tourism industry (Source: UNWTO, http://sdt.unwto.org/):
1. Make optimal use of environmental resources that constitute a key element in tourism development,
maintaining essential ecological processes and helping to conserve natural heritage and biodiversity.
2. Respect the socio-cultural authenticity of host communities, conserve their built and living cultural heritage
and traditional values, and contribute to inter-cultural understanding and tolerance.
3. Ensure viable, long-term economic operations, providing socio-economic benefits to all stakeholders that
are fairly distributed, including stable employment and income-earning opportunities and social services to
host communities, and contributing to poverty alleviation.
12 Aims for Sustainable Tourism

In 2005, the UNWTO and the UN Environment Programmme (UNEP) published the guide for policy-makers, “Making
Tourism More Sustainable”, including 12 Aims for Sustainable Tourism, which were later incorporated into the GSTC
Criteria.
1. Economic Viability: To ensure the viability and competitiveness of tourism destinations and enterprises, so
that they are able to continue to prosper and deliver benefits in the long term.
2. Local Prosperity: To maximize the contribution of tourism to the economic prosperity of the host
destination, including the proportion of visitor spending that is retained locally.
3. Employment Quality: To strengthen the number and quality of local jobs created and supported by
tourism, including the level of pay, conditions of service and availability to all without discrimination by
gender, race, disability or in other ways.
4. Social Equity: To seek a widespread and fair distribution of economic and social benefits from tourism
throughout the recipient community, including improving opportunities, income and services available to
the poor.
5. Visitor Fulfillment: To provide a safe, satisfying and fulfilling experience for visitors, available to all without
discrimination by gender, race, disability or in other ways.
6. Local Control: To engage and empower local communities in planning and decision making about the
management and future development of tourism in their area, in consultation with other stakeholders.
7. Community Wellbeing: To maintain and strengthen the quality of life in local communities, including social
structures and access to resources, amenities and life support systems, avoiding any form of social
degradation or exploitation.
8. Cultural Richness: To respect and enhance the historic heritage, authentic culture, traditions and
distinctiveness of host communities.
9. Physical Integrity: To maintain and enhance the quality of landscapes, both urban and rural, and avoid the
physical and visual degradation of the environment.
10. Biological Diversity: To support the conservation of natural areas, habitats and wildlife, and minimize
damage to them.
11. Resource Efficiency: To minimize the use of scarce and non-renewable resources in the development and
operation of tourism facilities and services.
12. Environmental Purity: To minimize the pollution of air, water and land and the generation of waste by
tourism enterprises and visitors.

3
Tourism and SDGs

“Tourism has the potential to contribute to all SDGs in view of its cross-cutting nature” (Taleb Rifai, Secretary-
General, UNWTO).
Tourism is specifically featured in the Goals 8, 12 and 14 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth - Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic
growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.
o Target 8.9: By 2030, devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates
jobs and promotes local culture and products
• Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Ensure sustainable consumption and production
patterns.
o Target 12.b: Develop and implement tools to monitor sustainable development impacts for
sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products
• Goal 14: Life Below Water - Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for
sustainable development.
o Target 14.7: By 2030, increase the economic benefits to Small Island developing States and least
developed countries from the sustainable use of marine resources, including through sustainable
management of fisheries, aquaculture and tourism

Source: United Nations Sustainable Development Knowledge Platform (https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/)

II. GSTC Industry Criteria for Hotels & Tour Operators
Guidelines for Hotels and Tour Operators
The GSTC Industry Criteria have been developed through a global, multi-disciplinary process led by the GSTC and its
partners. The Criteria serves as guidelines to help any hotel or tour operator improve their sustainability practices.
The guidelines indicate what should be done, not how to do it or whether the goal has been achieved. As such, the
benefits of using the Criteria for hotels and tour operators include:

1. Help your business operations become more sustainable.
2. Help your business choose sustainable tourism programs/products that fulfil these global criteria.
3. Serve as guidance for travel agencies in choosing suppliers and sustainable tourism programs.
4. Help consumers identify sound sustainable tourism programs and businesses.
5. Serve as a common denominator for recognizing sustainable tourism providers.
6. Help your business get started with the process of becoming certified through a GSTC-Recognized or GSTC-
Approved certification body.
GSTC Criteria and Indicators for Hotels and Tour Operators

The indicators presented here are suggestions in terms of measuring compliance with the Criteria. They are not
intended to be definitive or all-inclusive, but to provide a solid sample set for users of the Criteria in developing their
own performance indicator sets.

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

CRITERIA INDICATORS FOR HOTELS
OPERATORS
A: Demonstrate effective sustainable management
A1 Sustainability a. The Sustainability Management a. The Sustainability Management

System is clearly documented. System is clearly documented.
management system
b. The SM System covers b. The SM System covers
The organization has implemented a environmental, social, cultural, environmental, social, cultural,
long-term sustainability economic, quality, human rights, economic, quality, human rights,
management system that is suitable
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to its size and scope, addresses health and safety issues. health and safety issues.
environmental, social, cultural, c. The SM System includes c. The SM System includes
economic, quality, human rights, consideration of risk and crisis consideration of risk and crisis
health, safety, risk and crisis
management. management.
management issues and drives
continuous improvement. d. Documentary evidence shows d. Documentary evidence shows
implementation of the SM system. implementation of the SM system.
e. The SM System includes a process e. The SM System includes a process
for monitoring continuous for monitoring continuous
improvement in sustainability improvement in sustainability
performance. performance.
A2 Legal compliance a. An up to date list of all applicable a. An up to date list of all applicable
legal requirements is maintained. legal requirements is maintained.
The organization is in compliance
b. Certificates or other documentary b. Certificates or other documentary
with all applicable local, national and
evidence show compliance with all evidence show compliance with all
international legislation and
regulations including, among others, applicable legal requirements. applicable legal requirements.
health, safety, labour and c. Legal requirements in all countries
environmental aspects. of operation are understood and
met.
A3 Reporting and a. Regular reports are made a. Regular reports are made
available on sustainability available on sustainability
communication
performance. performance.
The organization communicates its b. Sustainability policies and actions b. Sustainability policies and actions
sustainability policy, actions and are reported in external and are reported in external and
performance to stakeholders,
internal communication material. internal communication material.
including customers, and seeks to
engage their support. c. Communications contain c. Communications contain
messages inviting consumer and messages inviting consumer and
stakeholder support. stakeholder support.
A4 Staff engagement a. Evidence is available of staff a. Evidence is available of staff

involvement with the SM System. involvement with the SM System.
Staff are engaged with development
b. Records of courses and on-the-job b. Records of courses and on-the-job
and implementation of the
training, with attendance levels, training, with attendance levels,
sustainability management system
and receive periodic guidance and are available. are available.
training regarding their roles and c. Staff training and guidance c. Staff training and guidance
responsibilities in its delivery. materials are available in materials are available in
accessible format (including use of accessible format (including use of
minority languages where minority languages where
needed). needed).
d. Staff hold certificates and d. Staff hold certificates and
qualifications in relevant qualifications in relevant
disciplines/skills. disciplines/skills.
A5 Customer experience a. A customer feedback system is in a. A customer feedback system is in

place, together with analysis of place, together with analysis of
Customer satisfaction, including
the results. the results.
aspects of sustainability, is
b. Negative feedback and responses b. Negative feedback and responses
monitored and corrective action
taken. made to this are recorded. made to this are recorded.
c. There is evidence of corrective c. There is evidence of corrective
actions taken. actions taken.
d. Feedback from customers is
provided to tourism businesses
and destinations
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contracted/visited.
A6 Accurate promotion a. Images used in promotion are of a. Images used in promotion are of
actual experiences offered and actual experiences offered and
Promotional materials and
facilities provided. places visited by customers.
marketing communications are
b. Marketing about wildlife or
accurate and transparent with b. Sustainability claims are based on
regard to the organization and its cultural events does not promise
records of past performance.
products and services, including sightings which cannot be
sustainability claims. They do not guaranteed.
promise more than is being c. Sustainability claims are based on
delivered. records of past performance.
A7 Buildings and
infrastructure
Planning, siting, design, construction,
renovation, operation and
demolition of buildings and
infrastructure…
A7.1 Compliance a. Awareness of, and compliance a. Awareness of, and compliance
with, laws relating to land use and with, laws relating to land use and
…comply with zoning requirements
activities in the local area is activities in the local area is
and laws related to protected and
demonstrated. demonstrated.
sensitive areas and to heritage
considerations. b. All required licences and permits b. All required licences and permits
are up to date. are up to date.
c. Awareness of, and compliance c. Awareness of, and compliance
with, non-statutory area with, non-statutory area
management plans and guidance management plans and guidance
(e.g. for particular zones, design, (e.g. for particular zones, design,
etc.), is demonstrated. etc.), is demonstrated.
A7.2 Impact and integrity a. Site selection, design and access a. Site selection, design and access
…take account of the capacity and have taken account of visual have taken account of visual
integrity of the natural and cultural amenity, landscape, cultural and amenity, landscape, cultural and
surroundings. natural heritage. natural heritage.
b. Site selection, design and access b. Site selection, design and access
have taken account of the have taken account of the
protection of biologically sensitive protection of biologically sensitive
areas and the assimilative capacity areas and the assimilative capacity
of ecosystems. of ecosystems.
c. The integrity of archaeological, c. The integrity of archaeological,
cultural heritage, and sacred sites cultural heritage, and sacred sites
has been preserved. has been preserved.
d. The integrity and connectivity of d. The integrity and connectivity of
natural sites and protected areas natural sites and protected areas
has been preserved. has been preserved.
e. Threatened or protected species e. Threatened or protected species
have not been displaced and have not been displaced and
impact on all wildlife habitats has impact on all wildlife habitats has
been minimized and mitigated. been minimized and mitigated.
f. Water courses / catchments / f. Water
wetlands have not been altered courses/catchments/wetlands
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and run-off is reduced where have not been altered and run-off
possible and any residue is is reduced where possible and any
captured or channeled and residue is captured or channeled
filtered. and filtered.
g. Risk factors (including climate g. Risk factors (including climate
change, natural phenomena, and change, natural phenomena, and
visitor safety) have been assessed visitor safety) have been assessed
and addressed. and addressed.
h. Impact assessment (including h. Impact assessment (including
cumulative impacts) has been cumulative impacts) has been
undertaken and documented as undertaken and documented as
appropriate. appropriate.
A7.3 Sustainable practices a. Local materials, practices and a. Local materials, practices and
crafts have been used in buildings crafts have been used in buildings
and materials
and design where practicable and and design where practicable and
…use locally appropriate and appropriate. appropriate.
sustainable practices and materials. b. Native and endemic plants b. Native and endemic plants
obtained from sustainable sources obtained from sustainable sources
have been used in landscaping have been used in landscaping
and decoration, avoiding exotic and decoration, avoiding exotic
and invasive species. and invasive species.
c. Plants have been selected for their c. Plants have been selected for their
ability to tolerate prevailing or ability to tolerate prevailing or
anticipated conditions eg drought anticipated conditions eg drought
tolerant plants tolerant plants
d. Sustainable design, materials and d. Sustainable design, materials and
construction practices have been construction practices have been
used in buildings, with appropriate used in buildings, with
certification where possible. appropriate certification where
e. Waste from construction is sorted possible.
and disposed of in an e. Waste from construction is sorted
environmentally sound manner. and disposed of in an
environmentally sound manner.
A7.4 Access for all a. Sites, buildings and activities are a. Sites, buildings and activities are
accessible to persons with physical accessible to persons with physical
…provide access and information for
disabilities and other special disabilities and other special
persons with special needs, where
needs, as appropriate to the needs, as appropriate to the
appropriate.
nature of the operation. nature of the operation.
b. Clear and accurate information is b. Clear and accurate information is
provided on the level of provided on the level of
accessibility. accessibility.
c. Accessibility is certified or checked c. Accessibility is certified or checked
with relevant experts/user bodies. with relevant experts/user bodies.
A8 Land water and a. Land ownership and tenure rights a. On sites owned and operated by
are documented. the organization or over which
property rights
b. User and access rights for key they have direct influence/control,
Acquisition by the organization of resources, including land and land ownership and tenure rights
land and water rights and of water, are documented where are documented.
property is legal, complies with local
applicable. b. User and access rights for key
communal and indigenous rights,
including their free, prior and c. There is documentary evidence of resources, including land and
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informed consent, and does not communication, consultation and water, are documented where
require involuntary resettlement. engagement with local and applicable.
indigenous communities. c. There is documentary evidence of
d. Evidence of free, prior and communication, consultation and
informed consent of local engagement with local and
communities is documented, indigenous communities.
where relevant (showing no d. Evidence of free, prior and
involuntary resettlement or land informed consent of local
acquisition). communities is documented,
where relevant (showing no
involuntary resettlement or land
acquisition).
A9 Information and a. Information/interpretation a. Information/interpretation

material about the natural and material about the natural and
interpretation
cultural heritage of the local area cultural heritage of areas visited is
The organization provides is available and provided to available and provided to
information about and customers. customers.
interpretation of the natural
b. Staff are informed and trained b. Staff are informed and trained
surroundings, local culture, and
cultural heritage, as well as an about the natural and cultural about the natural and cultural
explanation of appropriate heritage of the local area. heritage of the areas visited.
behaviour while visiting natural c. Information is provided to c. Information is provided to
areas, living cultures, and cultural customers about appropriate customers about appropriate
heritage sites. behaviour in the local area. behaviour in the areas visited.
A10 Destination a. The organization is a member of a. The organization is in contact with

the local Destination Management the local Destination Management
engagement
Organization or equivalent body, Organization or equivalent body in
The organization is involved with where such an organization exists. those locations where it is most
sustainable tourism planning and b. The organization participates in active.
management in the destination,
partnerships between local
where such opportunities exist. b. The organization engages in the
communities, NGOs and other
planning and management of
local bodies where these exist.
sustainable tourism in those
c. The organization participates in
destinations where it is most
planning and management
active.
meetings and activities concerning
sustainable tourism in the
destination.
B: Maximize social & economic benefits to the local community; minimize negative
impacts
B1 Community support a. The organization engages with the a. The organization supports
local community in identifying initiatives with local communities
The organization actively supports
needs and opportunities for in areas where it is particularly
initiatives for local infrastructure and
support and evaluating their active.
social community development.
Examples of initiatives include potential benefit/impact. b. The level and nature of
education, training, health and b. The level and nature of contributions made to schemes in
sanitation and projects which contributions made to schemes in the local communities is recorded.
address the impacts of climate the local community is recorded. c. In selecting service providers and
change. c. The local community is offered products/experiences to feature
the opportunity to access the in programmes, the organization
tourism facilities and services favours those that engage with
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provided. and support local communities.
B2 Local employment a. The proportion of total a. The organization seeks to provide

employment from persons already employment opportunities for
Local residents are given equal
residing in the local community is local residents in its operations
opportunities for employment and
measured and managed. and activities.
advancement, including in
management positions. b. The proportion of employment in b. The organization monitors the
management positions from level and proportion of
persons already residing in the employment it provides for local
local community is measured and residents.
managed. c. Training is offered to local
c. Training is offered to local residents to enhance their
residents to enhance their employment opportunities.
employment opportunities. d. In selecting service providers and
products/experiences to feature
in programmes, the organization
favours those that that provide
local employment.
B3 Local purchasing a. The organization regularly audits a. The organization regularly audits
its sources of supply of goods and its sources of supply of goods and
When purchasing and offering goods
services. services.
and services, the organization gives
b. The proportion of goods and b. In selecting service providers and
priority to local and fair trade
suppliers whenever these are services purchased from locally products/experiences to feature
available and of sufficient quality. owned and operated businesses is in programmes, the organization
measured and managed. favours those that are locally
c. The proportion of non-locally owned and operated.
owned or operated suppliers that
are fair trade is measured and
managed.
B4 Local entrepreneurs a. Locally owned businesses are a. Where appropriate, the

given access to premises and organization provides advice and
The organization supports local
customers for commercial activity. support to local service providers
entrepreneurs in the development
b. Where appropriate, the with whom it engages, on the
and sale of sustainable products and
services that are based on the area’s organization provides advice and quality and sustainability of their
nature, history and culture. support to local service providers service.
with whom it engages, on the
b. Opportunities for joint ventures
quality and sustainability of their
and partnerships with local
service.
entrepreneurs are considered and
c. Opportunities for joint ventures
pursued where appropriate.
and partnerships with local
entrepreneurs are considered and
pursued where appropriate.
B5 Exploitation and a. The organization has a a. The organization has a

documented policy against documented policy against
harassment
exploitation and harassment of exploitation and harassment of
The organization has implemented a vulnerable groups. vulnerable groups.
policy against commercial, sexual or b. Action is taken to communicate b. Action is taken to communicate
any other form of exploitation or
and implement the policy. and implement the policy.
harassment, particularly of children,
adolescents, women, minorities and c. The organization engages with the c. The organization engages with the
other vulnerable groups. local community in working local community, in destinations
against exploitation and where it is particularly active, in
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harassment. working against exploitation and
d. Records of employee ages are harassment.
kept and show absence of any d. Records of employee ages are
form of child labour (as defined by kept and show absence of any
ILO). form of child labour (as defined by
e. The organization supports action ILO).
against child sex tourism. e. The organization supports action
against child sex tourism.
f. Services providers and premises
where there is any evidence of
possible exploitation are not
contracted or visited.
B6 Equal opportunity a. The organization has identified d. The organization has identified
groups at risk of discrimination, groups at risk of discrimination,
The organization offers employment
including women and local including women and local
opportunities, including in
minorities. minorities.
management positions, without
discrimination by gender, race, b. The proportion of employees e. The proportion of employees
religion, disability or in other ways. drawn from each of these groups drawn from each of these groups
is monitored and is is monitored.
commensurate with local f. Internal promotion includes
demographics. members of these groups.
c. Internal promotion includes
members of these groups.
B7 Decent work a. The organization demonstrates a. The organization demonstrates

awareness of, and compliance awareness of, and compliance
Labour rights are respected, a safe
with, international labour with, international labour
and secure working environment is
standards and regulations. standards and regulations.
provided and employees are paid at
least a living wage. Employees are b. Wage levels are monitored and b. Wage levels are monitored and
offered regular training, experience regularly reviewed against regularly reviewed against norms
and opportunities for advancement. national norms for a living wage. for a living wage in the countries
c. Training records are kept for all of employment.
staff, showing the level and c. Training records are kept for all
frequency of training received. staff, showing the level and
d. Employee contracts show support frequency of training received.
for health care and social security. d. Employee contracts show support
e. Water, sanitation and hygiene for health care and social security.
facilities are provided for all onsite e. Water, sanitation and hygiene
workers. facilities are provided for all onsite
f. Employee satisfaction is workers.
monitored. f. Employee satisfaction is
g. An employee grievance monitored.
mechanism is in place. g. An employee grievance
mechanism is in place.
B8 Community services a. The organization monitors its a. The organization monitors its
impact on the availability of local impact on the availability of local
The activities of the organization do
services. services in the main areas of
not jeopardize the provision of basic
b. A communication / feedback / operation/visited.
services, such as food, water, energy,
healthcare or sanitation, to grievance mechanism is in place b. A communication / feedback /
neighbouring communities. for local communities. grievance mechanism is in place
c. Any reduction in availability of for communities in the main areas
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basic services to local of operation/visited.
communities, identified as the c. Any reduction in availability of
result of the organization’s basic services to local
activities, is addressed. communities, identified as the
result of the organization’s
activities, is addressed.
B9 Local livelihoods a. Local access to livelihoods is a. Local access to livelihoods is

considered in decisions about considered in decisions about
The activities of the organization do
development and operations. development and operations.
not adversely affect local access to
livelihoods, including land and b. A communication mechanism is in b. A communication mechanism is in
aquatic resource use, rights-of-way, place for local communities to place for local communities to
transport and housing.
report any instance of reduced report any instance of reduced
access to local livelihoods. access to local livelihoods in the
main areas of operation/visited.
C: Maximize benefits to cultural heritage and minimize negative impacts
C1 Cultural interactions a. The organization demonstrates a. The organization demonstrates

awareness of, and compliance awareness of, and compliance
The organization follows
with, existing international, with, existing international,
international and national good
national and local good practice national and local good practice
practice and locally agreed guidance
for the management and promotion and guidance for tourist visits to and guidance for tourist visits to
of visits to indigenous communities cultural sites and indigenous cultural sites and indigenous
and culturally or historically communities. communities.
sensitive sites in order to minimize b. The organization engages with b. The organization engages with
adverse impacts and maximize local communities/sites in reviewing communities/sites in reviewing
benefits and visitor fulfilment.
guidance and creating and guidance and creating and
agreeing additional guidelines as agreeing additional guidelines as
necessary. necessary.
c. Guidelines are effectively used c. Guidelines are effectively used
and communicated. and communicated.
d. Particular measures are in place to d. Particular measures are in place to
avoid inappropriate interaction avoid inappropriate interaction
with children. with children.
e. The organization participates
in/supports training and use of
local guides.
f. Consideration is given to the
capacity and fragility of sites and
communities, and to the levels of
pressure on them, in determining
the size, frequency and timing of
group visits.
g. Feedback from local communities
and from visitors is encouraged
and acted upon.
C2 Protecting cultural a. The organization makes and a. The organization makes and
records monetary contributions to records monetary contributions to
heritage
the protection of cultural heritage. the protection of cultural heritage
The organization contributes to the b. The organization provides in-kind in its main areas of
protection, preservation and
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enhancement of local properties, or other support for cultural operation/visited.
sites and traditions of historical, heritage. b. The organization provides in-kind
archaeological, cultural and spiritual c. Provision is made for local access or other support for cultural
significance and does not impede
to sites. heritage in its main areas of
access to them by local residents.
operation/visited.
c. The organization ensures that its
activities do not impede local
access to sites.
C3 Presenting culture and a. Local art/craft is reflected in a. Sites visited and experiences
design and furnishings. offered provide an authentic
heritage
b. Living cultural heritage and experience of local culture and
The organization values and traditions are evident in cuisine, heritage.
incorporates authentic elements of retail, events and other services b. Living cultural heritage and
traditional and contemporary local
offered. traditions are evident in cuisine,
culture in its operations, design,
decoration, cuisine, or shops, while c. Copyright and intellectual retail, events and other services
respecting the intellectual property property rights have been offered.
rights of local communities. observed and necessary c. Copyright and intellectual
permissions obtained. property rights have been
d. The views of the local community observed and necessary
have been sought on the permissions obtained.
presentation of local cultural d. The views of the local community
heritage. have been sought on the
presentation of local cultural
heritage.
C4 Artefacts a. Any use of artefacts is transparent a. Any use of artefacts is transparent

and/or documented and reported. and/or documented and reported.
Historical and archaeological
b. Where artefacts are used, laws b. Where artefacts are used, laws
artefacts are not sold, traded or
and bylaws have been identified and bylaws have been identified
displayed, except as permitted by
local and international law. that permit such use. that permit such use.
c. Visitors are prevented from c. Visitors are prevented from
removing or damaging artefacts. removing or damaging artefacts.
D: Maximize benefits to the environment and minimize negative impacts
D1 Conserving resources
D1.1 Environmentally a. A documented environmental a. A documented environmental

purchasing policy is in place. purchasing policy is in place.
preferable purchasing
b. Preference is given to products b. Preference is given to products
Purchasing policies favour and suppliers with environmental and suppliers with environmental
environmentally sustainable certification – notably with certification – notably with
suppliers and products, including
respect to wood, paper, fish, other respect to wood, paper, fish, other
capital goods, food, beverages,
building materials and consumables. foods, and products from the wild. foods, and products from the wild.
c. Where certified products and c. Where certified products are not
suppliers are not available, available, consideration is given to
consideration is given to origin origin and methods of growing or
and methods of growing or production.
production. d. Threatened species are not used
d. Threatened species are not used or sold.
or sold. e. Service providers and other
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operators selected and featured in
tours have
environmental/sustainability
certification where possible.
f. Where certified businesses are
not available, the sustainability
performance of service providers
is considered and required
improvements are communicated
and implemented.
D1.2 Efficient purchasing a. Purchasing favours reusable, d. Purchasing favours reusable,

returnable and recycled goods. returnable and recycled goods.
The organization carefully manages
b. Purchasing and use of consumable e. Purchasing and use of consumable
the purchasing of consumable and
and disposable goods are and disposable goods are
disposable goods, including food, in
order to minimize waste. monitored and managed. monitored and managed.
c. Unnecessary packaging (especially f. Unnecessary packaging (especially
from plastic) is avoided, with from plastic) is avoided, with
buying in bulk as appropriate. buying in bulk as appropriate.
D1.3 Energy conservation a. Total energy used is monitored a. Energy used in the organization’s
and managed. operations and those over which
Energy consumption is measured by
b. Energy used per tourist/night for it has direct influence/control is
type and steps are taken to minimize
each type of energy is monitored monitored and managed.
overall consumption. The
organization makes efforts to and managed. b. Renewable sources are favoured
increase its use of renewable energy. c. Renewable sources are favoured and the share of renewable
and the share of renewable energy in total energy supply is
energy in total energy supply is monitored and managed.
monitored and managed. c. Equipment and practices are used
d. Equipment and practices are used that minimize energy use.
that minimize energy use. d. Goals for reducing energy
e. Goals for reducing energy consumption are in place.
consumption are in place. e. Staff and guests are given
f. Staff and guests are given guidance on minimizing energy
guidance on minimizing energy use.
use.
D1.4 Water conservation a. Water risk has been assessed and a. Water risk in the main
documented. destinations visited has been
Water risk is assessed, water
b. Where water risk has been assessed and documented.
consumption is measured by type,
assessed as high, water b. In destinations visited where
and steps are taken to minimize
overall consumption. Water sourcing stewardship goals have been water risk has been assessed as
is sustainable and does not adversely determined. high, water stewardship goals
affect environmental flows. In areas c. Water used per tourist/night per have been determined.
of high water risk, context-based source is monitored and managed. c. Water used in the organization’s
water stewardship goals are d. Equipment and practices are used operations and those over which
identified and pursued.
that minimize water consumption. it has direct influence/control is
e. Water originates from a legal and monitored and managed.
sustainable source which has not d. Equipment and practices are used
previously affected, and is unlikely that minimize water consumption.
in future to affect, environmental e. Water originates from a legal and
flows. sustainable source which has not
f. Consideration is given to previously affected, and is unlikely
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INDICATORS FOR TOUR

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cumulative impacts of tourism in in future to affect, environmental
the locality on water sources. flows.
g. Goals for reducing water f. Consideration is given to
consumption are in place. cumulative impacts of tourism in
h. Staff and guests are given the locality on water sources.
guidance on minimizing water use. g. Goals for reducing water
consumption are in place.
h. Staff and guests are given
guidance on minimizing water use.
D2 Reducing pollution
D2.1 Greenhouse gas a. Total direct and indirect a. Total direct and indirect
greenhouse gas emissions are greenhouse gas emissions from
emissions
monitored and managed. the organization’s operations and
Significant greenhouse gas emissions b. Carbon Footprint per tourist / those over which it has direct
from all sources controlled by the night is monitored and managed. influence / control are monitored
organization are identified,
c. Actions are taken to avoid and and managed.
calculated where possible and
procedures implemented to avoid or reduce significant annual b. Carbon Footprint per tourist /
to minimize them. Offsetting of the emissions from all sources night is monitored and managed.
organization's remaining emissions is controlled by the organization. c. Actions are taken to avoid and
encouraged. d. Carbon offset mechanisms are reduce significant annual
used where practical. emissions from all sources
controlled by the organization.
d. Actions are taken to encourage
suppliers of products and services
to avoid and reduce significant
annual emissions.
e. Carbon offset mechanisms are
used where practical.
D2.2 Transport a. Information is provided and a. Where practical and feasible, the
promoted to customers on cleanest and most resource
The organization seeks to reduce
alternative (climate friendly) efficient transport options are
transportation requirements and
transport options, for arrival, used in the provision of tour
actively encourages the use of
cleaner and more resource efficient departure and during their visit. programmes and excursions.
alternatives by customers, b. Alternative transport options (e.g. b. Information is provided and
employees, suppliers and in its own bike rental, car sharing, pick-ups) promoted to customers on
operations. for guests and staff are provided alternative (climate friendly)
or facilitated. transport options, where
c. Markets accessible by short and available.
more sustainable transport c. Alternative transport options (e.g.
options are favoured. bike rental, car sharing, pick-ups)
d. Local suppliers are favoured and for guests and staff are provided
daily operations seek to minimize or facilitated.
transport use. d. Markets accessible by short and
more sustainable transport
options are favoured.
e. Local suppliers are favoured and
daily operations seek to minimize
transport use.
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D2.3 Wastewater a. Wastewater is disposed of to a a. The organization is aware of

municipal or government wastewater treatment
Wastewater, including grey water, is
approved treatment system, if arrangements in the main
effectively treated and is only reused
available. destinations visited, and seeks to
or released safely, with no adverse
effects to the local population or the influence their improvement
b. If suitable municipal wastewater
environment. where necessary and practicable.
treatment is not available, there is
b. Wastewater resulting from
a system in place on site to treat
organization’s operations and
wastewater (that meets
those over which it has direct
international wastewater quality
influence / control is disposed of
requirements) and ensures no
to a municipal or government
adverse effects on the local
approved treatment system, if
population and the environment.
available.
c. If suitable municipal wastewater
treatment is not available, there is
a system in place on site to treat
wastewater (that meets
international wastewater quality
requirements) and ensures no
adverse effects on the local
population and the environment.
D2.4 Solid waste a. The amount of solid waste a. The organization is aware of waste
disposed per tourist/night is management arrangements in the
Waste, including food waste, is
monitored and managed. main destinations visited, and
measured, mechanisms are in place
b. A solid waste management plan is seeks to influence their
to reduce waste and, where
reduction is not feasible, to reuse or in place. improvement where necessary
recycle it. Any residual waste c. The solid waste management plan and practicable.
disposal has no adverse effect on the includes actions to reduce, b. A solid waste management plan is
local population or the environment. separate and reuse or recycle food in place for the organization’s
waste. operations and those over which
d. Waste disposal is to a government it has direct influence/control.
run or approved facility and there c. The solid waste management plan
is evidence that the facility has no includes actions to reduce,
negative impact on the separate and reuse or recycle food
environment or local population. waste where applicable.
e. Solid waste disposed is measured d. Waste disposal is to a government
by type and goals are in place to run or approved facility and there
minimize non-diverted solid is evidence that the facility has no
waste. negative impact on the
f. Guidance is given to customers environment or local population.
and staff on minimizing waste. e. Solid waste disposed is measured
by type and goals are in place to
minimize non-diverted solid
waste.
f. Guidance is given to customers,
staff and suppliers of products and
services on minimizing waste.
D2.5 Harmful substances a. An inventory of harmful a. An inventory of harmful

substances has been made and substances has been made and
The use of harmful substances,
material safety data sheets material safety data sheets
including pesticides, paints,
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INDICATORS FOR TOUR

OPERATORS
swimming pool disinfectants, and (MSDS) are held. (MSDS) are held.
cleaning materials, is minimized, and b. Action has been taken to source b. Action has been taken to source
substituted when available by more environmentally friendly more environmentally friendly
innocuous products or processes. All
alternatives. alternatives.
storage, use, handling, and disposal
of chemicals are properly managed. c. Chemicals, especially those in bulk c. Chemicals, especially those in bulk
amounts, are stored and handled amounts, are stored and handled
in accordance with appropriate in accordance with appropriate
standards. standards.
d. Visitors are informed about d. Visitors are informed in advance
personal use of substances which to avoid use of personal toiletries
may be considered harmful to the and other substances which may
local environment (such as toxic be considered harmful to the local
sunscreens and repellants). environment.
D2.6 Minimize pollution a. The potential sources of pollution a. The potential sources of pollution
covered in the criterion have been covered in the criterion have been
The organization implements
reviewed and identified. reviewed and identified.
practices to minimize pollution from
b. The potential sources of pollution b. The potential sources of pollution
noise, light, runoff, erosion, ozone-
depleting substances, and air, water covered in the criterion are covered in the criterion are
and soil contaminants. monitored. monitored.
c. Action is taken to minimize and c. Action is taken to minimize and
where possible eliminate pollution where possible eliminate pollution
from the sources covered in the from the sources covered in the
criterion. criterion.
D3 Conserving biodiversity, ecosystems and landscapes
D3.1 Biodiversity a. The organization demonstrates a. The organization demonstrates

awareness of natural protected awareness of natural protected
conservation
areas and areas of high areas and areas of high
The organization supports and biodiversity value. biodiversity value in the areas
contributes to biodiversity b. The organization provides and visited.
conservation, including through
records monetary support for b. The organization provides and
appropriate management of its own
property. Particular attention is paid biodiversity conservation in the records monetary support for
to natural protected areas and areas local area. biodiversity conservation in its
of high biodiversity value. Any c. The organization provides and main areas of operation / visited.
disturbance of natural ecosystems is records in-kind or other support c. The organization provides and
minimized, rehabilitated and there is for biodiversity conservation in records in-kind or other support
a compensatory contribution to
the local area. for biodiversity conservation in its
conservation management.
d. The property is actively managed main areas of operation / visited.
to support biodiversity d. Properties owned or operated by
conservation. the organization and those over
e. The organization is aware of, and which it has direct influence /
mitigates, activity with potential control are actively managed to
to disturb wildlife and habitats. support biodiversity conservation.
f. Compensation is made where any e. The organization is aware of, and
disturbance has occurred. mitigates, activity with potential
g. Action is taken to encourage to disturb wildlife and habitats.
visitors to support biodiversity f. Compensation is made where any
conservation. disturbance has occurred.
h. The organization engages with g. Action is taken to encourage
local conservation NGOs. visitors to support biodiversity
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INDICATORS FOR TOUR

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conservation.
h. The organization engages with
local conservation NGOs in its
main areas of operation / visited.
D3.2 Invasive species a. Sites are monitored for presence a. Properties owned or operated by
of any invasive species. the organization and those over
The organization takes measures to
b. Action is taken to ensure invasive which it has direct influence /
avoid the introduction of invasive
species are not introduced or control are monitored for
species. Native species are used for
landscaping and restoration spread. presence of any invasive species.
wherever feasible, particularly in c. A programme is in place to b. Action is taken to ensure invasive
natural landscapes. eradicate and control invasive species are not introduced or
species. spread.
d. Landscaping of sites is reviewed to c. A programme is in place to
consider use of native species. eradicate and control invasive
species.
d. Landscaping of sites is reviewed to
consider use of native species.
D3.3 Visits to natural sites a. The organization is aware of, and a. The organization is aware of, and
complies with, existing guidelines complies with, existing guidelines
The organization follows appropriate
for tourist visits to natural sites. for tourist visits to natural sites.
guidelines for the management and
b. Guidelines are used when b. Guidelines are used when
promotion of visits to natural sites in
order to minimize adverse impacts conducting visits and informing conducting visits and informing
and maximize visitor fulfilment. guests. guests.
c. The organization engages with c. The organization engages with
local conservation bodies to local conservation bodies to
establish/identify issues establish/identify issues
concerning visits to particular concerning visits to particular
sites. sites.
d. The organization participates in /
supports training and use of local
guides in natural sites.
e. Consideration is given to the
capacity and fragility of natural
sites, and to the levels of pressure
on them, in determining the size,
frequency and timing of group
visits.
f. Feedback from local communities
and from visitors is encouraged
and acted upon.
D3.4 Wildlife interactions a. The organization is aware of, and a. The organization is aware of, and
complies with, existing local, complies with, existing local,
Interactions with free roaming
national and international national and international
wildlife, taking into account
regulations and guidelines regulations and guidelines
cumulative impacts, are non-invasive
and responsibly managed to avoid concerning wildlife interactions, concerning wildlife interactions,
adverse effects on the animals including wildlife viewing. including wildlife viewing.
concerned and on the viability and b. The organization engages with the b. The organization engages with the
behaviour of populations in the wild. development and implementation development and implementation
of local codes and guidelines for of local codes and guidelines for
wildlife interactions, including wildlife interactions, including
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INDICATORS FOR TOUR

OPERATORS
wildlife viewing, as required, wildlife viewing, as required,
based on advice of wildlife based on advice of wildlife
experts. experts.
c. Direct interactions, in particular c. The organization ensures that all
feeding, should not be permitted, service providers and sites visited
unless specifically sanctioned by comply with existing local,
internationally accepted standards national and international
or, where standards are not regulations and guidelines
available, guided by independent concerning wildlife interactions,
wildlife expert advice. including wildlife viewing.
d. Measures are taken to minimize d. Direct interactions, in particular
disturbance to wildlife. feeding, should not be permitted,
e. Impacts on wildlife wellbeing are unless specifically sanctioned by
regularly monitored and internationally accepted standards
addressed. or, where standards are not
available, guided by independent
wildlife expert advice.
e. Measures are taken to minimize
disturbance to wildlife.
f. Impacts on wildlife wellbeing are
regularly monitored and
addressed.
D3.5 Animal welfare a. The organization is aware of, and a. The organization is aware of, and
complies with, relevant laws and complies with, relevant laws and
No species of wild animal is
regulations concerning captive regulations concerning captive
acquired, bred or held captive,
wildlife. wildlife.
except by authorized and suitably
equipped persons and for properly b. Existing guidelines for specific b. Existing guidelines for specific
regulated activities in compliance tourism activities involving captive tourism activities involving captive
with local and international law. wildlife are implemented. wildlife are implemented.
Housing, care and handling of all c. Personnel responsible for captive c. Personnel responsible for captive
wild and domestic animals meets the wildlife have appropriate wildlife have appropriate
highest standards of animal welfare.
qualifications and experience and qualifications and experience and
are fully licensed. are fully licensed.
d. The organization is aware of, and d. The organization is aware of, and
regulations concerning animal regulations concerning animal
welfare. welfare.
e. There is regular inspection of e. The organization ensures that all
conditions of captive wildlife and service providers and sites visited
their housing. comply with relevant laws,
f. There is regular inspection of regulations and guidelines
conditions of domestic animals concerning captive wildlife and
and their housing and handling. animal welfare.
f. There is regular inspection of
conditions of captive wildlife and
their housing.
g. There is regular inspection of
conditions of domestic animals
and their housing and handling.
D3.6 Wildlife harvesting a. The organization is aware of, and a. The organization is aware of, and
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INDICATORS FOR TOUR

OPERATORS
and trade regulations concerning wildlife regulations concerning wildlife
harvesting and trade. harvesting and trade.
Wildlife species are not harvested,
b. Visitors are informed of b. The organization ensures that all
consumed, displayed, sold, or
regulations concerning wildlife service providers and sites visited
traded, except as part of a regulated
activity that ensures that their harvesting, consumption and comply with relevant laws and
utilization is sustainable, and in trade and of the need to avoid regulations concerning wildlife
compliance with local and buying illegal products / souvenirs harvesting and trade.
international laws. derived from threatened species c. Visitors and guides are informed
of wildlife notified by IUCN or of regulations concerning wildlife
CITES. harvesting, consumption and
c. Where hunting activity is legal, it trade and of the need to avoid
forms part of a scientifically buying illegal products / souvenirs
based, properly managed and derived from threatened species
strictly enforced approach to of wildlife notified by IUCN or
conservation. CITES.
d. Where hunting activity is legal, it
forms part of a scientifically
based, properly managed and
strictly enforced approach to
conservation.

III. GSTC Criteria for Destinations

Guidelines for Destinations
The GSTC Criteria for Destinations were conceived as the beginning of a process to make sustainability the standard
practice in all forms of tourism. It is recommended that all criteria be applied to the greatest extent practical, unless
for a specific situation the criterion is not applicable and justification is provided. Because destinations are
comprised by many different enterprises, organizations and individuals, the application of these criteria should
include thorough consideration of the cumulative effects of activities.
GSTC Criteria and Indicators for Destinations

CRITERIA INDICATORS
A: Demonstrate sustainable destination management

A1 Sustainable destination strategy a. Multi-year destination strategy that includes a focus on
The destination has established and is sustainability and sustainable tourism and includes
implementing a multi-year destination strategy environmental, economic, social, cultural, quality, health,
that is publicly available, is suited to its scale; and safety issues.
that considers environmental, economic, social, b. Multi-year destination plan or strategy that is up-to-date
cultural, quality, health, and safety, and and publicly available.
aesthetic issues; and was developed with public c. Multi-year destination plan or strategy that was
participation. developed with public participation.
d. Political commitment to implement the multi-year
destination plan and evidence of implementation.
A2 Destination management organization a. An organization has responsibility for a coordinated
The destination has an effective organization, approach to the management of sustainable tourism.
19
CRITERIA INDICATORS
department, group, or committee responsible b. The private sector and public sector are involved in the
for a coordinated approach to sustainable organization and coordination of tourism.
tourism, with involvement by the private sector c. The tourism organization is suited to the size and scale of
and public sector. This group is suited to the the destination.
size and scale of the destination, and has d. Individuals within the tourism organization have assigned
defined responsibilities, oversight, and responsibilities for sustainable tourism.
implementation capability for the management e. The tourism organization is appropriately funded.
of environmental, economic, social, and
cultural issues. This group’s activities are
appropriately funded.
A3 Monitoring a. Active monitoring and public reporting of environmental,

The destination has a system to monitor, economic, social, cultural, tourism, and human rights
publicly report, and respond to environmental, issues.
economic, social, cultural, tourism, and human b. Monitoring system is reviewed and evaluated periodically.
rights issues. The monitoring system is c. Tourism impact mitigation procedures funded and active.
reviewed and evaluated periodically.
A4 Tourism seasonality management a. Specific strategy for marketing off-season events and
The destination dedicates resources to mitigate attracting year-round visitors.
seasonal variability of tourism where
appropriate, working to balance the needs of
the local economy, community, cultures and
environment, to identify year-round tourism
opportunities.
A5 Climate change adaptation a. Current system for climate change adaptation and risk
The destination has a system to identify risks assessment.
and opportunities associated with climate b. Laws or policies to mitigate climate change and encourage
change. This system encourages climate change technologies to mitigate climate change.
adaptation strategies for development, siting, c. Program to educate and raise awareness among the
design, and management of facilities. The public, tourism enterprises, and visitors about climate
system contributes to the sustainability and change.
resilience of the destination and to public
education on climate for both residents and
tourists.
A6 Inventory of tourism assets and attractions a. Current inventory and classification of tourism assets and
The destination has an up-to-date, publicly attractions including natural and cultural sites.
available inventory and assessment of its
tourism assets and attractions, including
natural and cultural sites.
A7 Planning Regulations a. Planning or zoning guidelines, regulations and/or policies

The destination has planning guidelines, that protect natural and cultural resources.
regulations and/or policies that require b. Guidelines, regulations, and/or policies that address
environmental, economic, and social impact sustainable land use, design, construction, and
assessment and integrate sustainable land use, demolition.
design, construction, and demolition. The c. Planning guidelines, regulations, and/or policies were
guidelines, regulations and/or policies are created with local inputs from the public and a thorough
designed to protect natural and cultural review process.
resources, were created with local inputs from d. Planning guidelines, regulations, and/or policies are
the public and a thorough review process, are publicly communicated and are enforced.
publicly communicated, and are enforced.
A8 Access for all a. Policies supporting access to tourist sites and facilities,
Where appropriate, sites and facilities, including those of natural and cultural importance, for
including those of natural and cultural individuals with disabilities and others who have specific
importance, are accessible to all, including access requirements, where appropriate.
20
CRITERIA INDICATORS
persons with disabilities and others who have b. Accessibility solutions are designed to take into account
specific access requirements. Where such sites the integrity of the site while making reasonable
and facilities are not immediately accessible, accommodation for people with disabilities.
access is afforded through the design and
implementation of solutions that take into
account both the integrity of the site and such
reasonable accommodations for persons with
access requirements as can be achieved.
A9 Property acquisitions a. Policy or legislation, including enforcement provisions,

Laws and regulations regarding property exist.
acquisitions exist, are enforced, comply with b. Policy or legislation that considers indigenous rights
communal and indigenous rights, ensure public ensures public consultation and authorizes resettlement
consultation, and do not authorize only when there is informed consent and/or reasonable
resettlement without prior informed consent compensation.
and/or reasonable compensation.
A10 Visitor satisfaction a. Collection and public reporting of data on visitor
The destination has a system to monitor and satisfaction.
publicly report visitor satisfaction, and, if b. System to take action to improve visitor satisfaction based
necessary, to take action to improve visitor on monitoring information.
satisfaction.
A11 Sustainability standards a. Industry-supported sustainable tourism certification or

The destination has a system to promote environmental management system.
sustainability standards for enterprises b. Sustainable tourism certification or environmental
consistent with the GSTC Criteria. The management system recognized by the GSTC.
destination makes publicly available a list of c. Monitoring of tourism business participation in tourism
sustainability certified or verified enterprises. certification or environmental management system.
d. Publicly available list of sustainably certified or verified
enterprises.
A12 Safety and security a. On-going compulsory inspections of fire, food hygiene,
The destination has a system to monitor, and electricity safety for tourism properties.
prevent, publicly report, and respond to crime, b. Safety precautions such as first aid stations at
safety, and health hazards. beaches/tourist attraction sites.
c. System to prevent and respond to crime.
d. Taxi licensing system with clear pricing and an organized
taxi dispatch system at points of visitor entry.
e. Public reporting of safety and security.
A13 Crisis and emergency management a. Publicly available crisis and emergency response plan that
The destination has a crisis and emergency considers the tourism sector.
response plan that is appropriate to the b. Financial and human capital to implement the crisis and
destination. Key elements are communicated emergency response plan.
to residents, visitors, and enterprises. The plan c. Crisis and emergency response plan developed with input
establishes procedures and provides resources from the tourism private sector and includes
and training for staff, visitors, and residents, communication procedures for during and after a crisis or
and is updated on a regular basis. emergency.
d. Crisis and emergency response plan provides resources
and training for staff, visitors, and residents.
e. Crisis and emergency response plan is updated on a
regular basis
A14 Promotion a. Destination promotional messages that represent local

Promotion is accurate with regard to the communities and visitors authentically and respectfully.
destination and its products, services, and b. Destination promotional messages that are accurate in
sustainability claims. The promotional their description of products and services.
messages treat local communities and tourists
21
CRITERIA INDICATORS
authentically and respectfully.
B: Maximize economic benefits to the host community & minimize negative impacts
B1 Economic monitoring a. Regular monitoring and reporting of visitor expenditure
The direct and indirect economic contribution data, revenue per available room, employment and
of tourism to the destination’s economy is investment data.
monitored and publicly reported at least b. Regular monitoring and reporting at least annually of
annually. To the extent feasible, this should direct and indirect contributions of tourism.
include visitor expenditure, revenue per c. Collection and public reporting at least annually of
available room, employment and investment tourism-related employment data, disaggregated by
data. gender and age group.
B2 Local career opportunities a. Legislation or policies supporting equal opportunities in

The destination’s enterprises provide equal employment for all, including women, youth, disabled
employment, training opportunities, people, minorities, and other vulnerable populations.
occupational safety, and fair wages for all. b. Training programs that provide equal access to all,
including women, youth, disabled people, minorities, and
other vulnerable populations.
c. Legislation or policies supporting occupational safety for
all.
d. Legislation or policies supporting fair wages for all,
including women, youth, disabled people, minorities, and
other vulnerable populations.
B3 Public participation a. System for involving public, private, and community
The destination has a system that encourages stakeholders in destination management planning and
public participation in destination planning and decision-making.
decision-making on an ongoing basis. b. Public meeting(s) to discuss destination management
issues each year.
B4 Local community opinion a. Regular collection, monitoring, recording, and public

Local communities’ aspirations, concerns, and reporting of data on resident aspirations, concerns, and
satisfaction with destination management are satisfaction with destination management.
regularly monitored, recorded and publicly b. Collection, monitoring, recording, and public recording of
reported in a timely manner. data occurs in a timely manner.
B5 Local access a. Programs to monitor, protect, and rehabilitate or restore

The destination monitors, protects, and when public access by locals and domestic visitors to natural
necessary rehabilitates or restores local and cultural sites.
community access to natural and cultural sites. b. Monitoring of behaviour and characteristics of local,
domestic and foreign visitors to tourist sites and
attractions.
B6 Tourism awareness and education a. Program to raise awareness of tourism’s role and
The destination provides regular programs to potential contribution held in communities, schools, and
affected communities to enhance their higher education institutions.
understanding of the opportunities and
challenges of tourism, and the importance of
sustainability.
B7 Preventing exploitation a. Laws and a program to prevent commercial, sexual, or any
The destination has laws and established other form of exploitation, discrimination or harassment
practices to prevent commercial, sexual, or any of residents or visitors.
other form of exploitation and harassment of b. Laws and program are publicly communicated.
anyone, particularly of children, adolescents,
women, and minorities. The laws and
established practices are publicly
communicated.
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CRITERIA INDICATORS
B8 Support for community a. Programs for enterprises, visitors, and the public to
The destination has a system to enable and contribute donations to community and biodiversity
encourage enterprises, visitors, and the public conservation initiatives and/or infrastructure
to contribute to community and sustainability development.
initiatives.
B9 Supporting local entrepreneurs and fair a. Program to support and build capacity of local and small-
trade and medium-sized enterprises.
The destination has a system that supports b. Program encourages enterprises to purchase goods and
local and small- and medium-sized enterprises, services locally.
and promotes and develops local sustainable c. Program to promote and develop local sustainable
products and fair trade principles that are products based on local nature and culture.
based on the area’s nature and culture. These d. Program to include local artisans, farmers, and suppliers
may include food and beverages, crafts, in the tourism value chain.
performance arts, agricultural products, etc.
C: Maximize benefits to communities, visitors, and culture; minimize negative impacts

C1 Attraction protection a. Management system to protect natural and cultural sites,
The destination has a policy and system to including build heritage and rural and urban scenic views.
evaluate, rehabilitate, and conserve natural and b. Management system to monitor, measure and mitigate
cultural sites, including built heritage (historic tourism impacts on sites and attractions.
and archaeological) and rural and urban scenic
views.
C2 Visitor management a. Administrative mechanism responsible for implementing
The destination has a visitor management visitor management plans and operations.
system for attraction sites that includes
measures to preserve, protect, and enhance
natural and cultural assets.
C3 Visitor behavior a. Cultural and environmental guidelines for visitor

The destination has published and provided behaviour in sensitive sites.
guidelines for proper visitor behavior at b. Code of practice for tour guides and tour operators
sensitive sites. Such guidelines are designed to
minimize adverse impacts on sensitive sites and
strengthen positive visitor behaviors.
C4 Cultural heritage protection a. Laws or regulations to protect historical and

The destination has laws governing the proper archaeological artefacts including those located under
sale, trade, display, or gifting of historical and water, and evidence of their enforcement.
archaeological artefacts. b. Program to protect and celebrate intangible cultural
heritage (e.g., includes song, music, drama, skills and
crafts).
C5 Site interpretation a. Interpretive information available to visitors in tourist

Accurate interpretive information is provided at offices and at natural and cultural sites.
natural and cultural sites. The information is b. Interpretive information is culturally appropriate.
culturally appropriate, developed with c. Interpretive information is developed with community
community collaboration, and communicated collaboration.
in languages pertinent to visitors. d. Interpretive information is available in languages
pertinent to visitors.
e. Tour guide training in the use of interpretive information.
C6 Intellectual property a. Laws, regulations or programs to protect intellectual

The destination has a system to contribute to property rights of local individuals and communities.
the protection and preservation of intellectual
property rights of communities and individuals.
23
CRITERIA INDICATORS
D: Maximize benefits to the environment and minimize negative impacts
D1 Environmental risks a. Sustainability assessment of the destination within the
The destination has identified environmental last five years, identifying environmental risks.
risks and has a system in place to address them. b. System in place to address identified risks.
D2 Protection of sensitive environments a. Maintained and updated inventory of sensitive and

The destination has a system to monitor the threatened wildlife and habitats.
environmental impact of tourism, conserve b. Management system to monitor impacts and to protect
habitats, species, and ecosystems, and prevent ecosystems, sensitive environments, and species.
the introduction of invasive species. c. System prevents the introduction of invasive species.
D3 Wildlife protection a. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species
The destination has a system to ensure of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
compliance with local, national, and b. Regulations and standards for controlling harvesting or
international laws and standards for the capture, display, sale, of plants and animals.
harvest or capture, display, and sale of wildlife
(including plants and animals).
D4 Greenhouse gas emissions a. Program to assist enterprises to measure, monitor,

The destination has a system to encourage minimize, and publicly report greenhouse gas emissions.
enterprises to measure, monitor, minimize, b. System to assist enterprises to mitigate greenhouse gas
publicly report, and mitigate their greenhouse emissions.
gas emissions from all aspects of their
operation (including emissions from service
providers).
D5 Energy conservation a. Program to promote energy conservation and measure,

The destination has a system to encourage monitor, reduce, and publicly report energy consumption.
enterprises to measure, monitor, reduce, and b. Policies and incentives to reduce reliance on fossil fuels,
publicly report energy consumption, and improve energy efficiency, and encourage the adoption
reduce reliance on fossil fuels. and use of renewable energy technologies.
D6 Water Management a. Program to assist enterprises to measure, monitor,
The destination has a system to encourage reduce, and publicly report water usage.
enterprises to measure, monitor, reduce, and
publicly report water usage.
D7 Water security a. Management system to ensure that water use by

The destination has a system to monitor its enterprises and water requirements of the destination
water resources to ensure that use by community are balanced and compatible.
enterprises is compatible with the water
requirements of the destination community.
D8 Water quality a. Management system to monitor and publicly report on

The destination has a system to monitor drinking and recreational water quality.
drinking and recreational water quality using b. Monitoring results are publicly available.
quality standards. The monitoring results are c. System to respond in a timely manner to water quality
publicly available, and the destination has a issues.
system to respond in a timely manner to water
quality issues.
D9 Wastewater a. Regulations for the siting, maintenance, and testing of

The destination has clear and enforced discharge from septic tanks and wastewater treatment
guidelines in place for the siting, maintenance systems, and evidence of their enforcement.
and testing of discharge from septic tanks and b. Regulations to ensure the size and type of wastewater
wastewater treatment systems, and ensures treatment is adequate for the location, and evidence of
wastes are properly treated and reused or their enforcement.
released safely with minimal adverse effects to c. Program to assist enterprises to effectively treat and
24
CRITERIA INDICATORS
the local population and the environment. reuse wastewater.
d. Program to ensure proper treatment of wastes and safe
reuse or release with minimal adverse effects to local
population and environment.
D10 Solid waste reduction a. Waste collection system that maintains public records on
The destination has a system to encourage the amount of waste generated.
enterprises to reduce, reuse, and recycle solid b. Solid waste management plan that is implemented, and
waste. Any residual solid waste that is not has quantitative goals to minimize, and ensure safe
reused or recycled is disposed of safely and sustainable disposal of waste that is not reused or
sustainably. recycled.
c. Program to assist enterprises to reduce, reuse, and
recycle waste.
d. Program to reduce the use of bottled water by enterprises
and visitors.
D11 Light and noise pollution a. Guidelines and regulations to minimize noise and light
The destination has guidelines and regulations pollution.
to minimize light and noise pollution. The b. Program to encourage enterprises to follow guidelines
destination encourages enterprises to follow and regulations to minimize noise and light pollution.
these guidelines and regulations.
D12 Low-impact transportation a. Program to increase the use of low-impact transportation.
The destination has a system to increase the b. Program to make sites of visitor interest more accessible
use of low-impact transportation, including to active transportation (e.g., walking and cycling).
public transportation and active transportation
(e.g., walking and cycling).
25
V. GSTC Glossary of Terms

Words and phrases can often convey different meanings depending on circumstances, application, location, and a
number of other factors. The glossary has been compiled in order to combat possible confusion as well as provide
additional clarity to many of the concepts mentioned in the GSTC Criteria and suggested performance indicators.
These terms and definitions have been written to explain the meaning of terms as used by the GSTC.

See full list of GSTC sustainability terms here: https://www.gstcouncil.org/gstc-criteria/glossary/

Term Definition
Animal Animal welfare means how an animal is coping with the conditions in which it lives. The
welfare universally recognized “Five Freedoms”, published in 1965, describe the right to welfare of
animals under human control. According to this concept, an animal’s primary welfare needs can
be met by providing: freedom from hunger, malnutrition and thirst; freedom from fear and
distress; freedom from physical and thermal discomfort; freedom from pain, injury and disease;
and freedom to express normal patterns of behaviour.
Appropriate Behavior of any individual involved in the tourism business that is characterized by respect for
behavior the sociocultural and ecological fabric of a location.
Authentic Worthy of acceptance or belief as conforming to or based on fact; not false or imitation;
real, actual; true to one's own personality, spirit, or character; made or done the same way as an
original.
Certification Voluntary, third party assessment, through an audit, of a tourism enterprise for conformity to a
standard.
CO2 offsets A carbon offset is a reduction in emissions of carbon dioxide or greenhouse gases made in order
to compensate for or to offset an emission made elsewhere
Community Often annotated as free, prior, and informed, consent, community consent indicates approval of
consent any outside incursion or development into community lands or practices. Consent does not
require unanimity among all of the members of a community. Rather, consent should be
determined pursuant to customary law and practice, or in some other way agreed upon by the
community.
Compliance Conformity in fulfilling official requirements.
Conservation A planned intervention in order to maintain a species or habitat in a favorable condition.

management
Corrective A documented methodology to reverse any previous activity that has been identified as
action plan environmentally, socially, or economically hazardous to the business, destination, or local
community. Corrective action provides that a problem has been recognized, corrected, and
proper controls installed to make sure that it does not happen again.
Cultural Cultural heritage is the legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society
heritage that are inherited from past generations, maintained in the present and bestowed for the benefit
of future generations.
Decent work Decent work involves opportunities for work that is productive and delivers a fair income,
security in the workplace and social protection for families, better prospects for personal
development and social integration, freedom for people to express their concerns, organize and
participate in the decisions that affect their lives and equality of opportunity and treatment for
all women and men.
Destination A destination is a geographical area consisting of all the services and infrastructure necessary for
the stay of a specific tourist or tourism segment. Destinations are the competitive units of
incoming tourism.
Environmenta Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a tool used to identify the environmental, social and
l impact economic impacts of a project prior to decision-making. It aims to predict environmental impacts
assessment at an early stage in project planning and design, find ways and means to reduce adverse impacts,
(EIA) shape projects to suit the local environment and present the predictions and options to decision-
makers.
26
Term Definition
Fair trade Fair trade is based on dialogue, transparency and respect, seeking greater equity in
international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading
conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers – especially in
the South. 'Fairtrade' or 'Fair Trade' standards comprise minimum social, economic and
environmental requirements, which producers must meet to be certified.
Indigenous Tribal peoples in independent countries whose social, cultural, and economic conditions
communities distinguish them from other sections of the national community, and whose status is regulated
wholly or partially by their own customs or traditions or by special laws or regulations.
Intellectual Intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions; literary and artistic
property works; designs; and symbols, names and images used in commerce. IP is protected in law. Special
considerations apply to indigenous and local communities concerning the protection, promotion
and preservation of traditional knowledge, traditional cultural expressions and genetic resources.
IUCN red list A compendium of information on the taxonomy, conservation status and distribution of plants,
fungi and animal species that have been globally evaluated using the IUCN Red List Categories
and Criteria. This system is designed to determine the relative risk of extinction, and the main
purpose of the IUCN Red List is to catalogue and highlight those plants and animals that are
facing a higher risk of global extinction.
Living culture Living culture, or intangible cultural heritage, refers to the practices, representations,
expressions, knowledge and skills handed down from generation to generation. This heritage
provides communities with a sense of identity and is continuously recreated in response to their
environment.
Local The area of and immediately around the destination or location of business operations. The size
of the area can vary depending on the physical geography and population density and
distribution.
Purchasing Documented system and procedures for acquiring goods and services, including rules and
policy guidelines, sourcing policies, and favored or approved suppliers.
Social impact The process of analyzing, monitoring, and managing the intended and unintended social
assessment consequences, both positive and negative, of planned interventions (policies, programs, plans,
projected) and any social change processes invoked by those interventions. Its primary purpose is
to bring about a more sustainable and equitable biophysical and human environment.
Spiritually A site, object structure, area or natural feature or area, held by national Governments or
important communities to be of particular importance in accordance with the customs of an indigenous or
sites local community because of its religious, spiritual or cultural significance.
Sustainability A management system (set of interrelated elements) to establish a sustainability policy and
management objectives and processes to achieve those objectives.
system
Sustainable A sustainable destination strategy is a plan of action, based on stakeholder consultation and
destination engagement, which sets out the agreed vision, objectives and direction for sustainable tourism in
strategy a destination and designed to be used as a basis for identifying destination management actions.
Water risk The probability and severity of an entity experiencing a deleterious water-related event. Overall
water risk identifies areas with higher exposure to water-related risks and is an aggregated
measure of all selected indicators from the Physical Quantity, Quality and Regulatory and
Reputational Risk categories.
Water Water stewardship is about taking action to help ensure that water is managed sustainably as a
stewardship shared, public resource. It can be defined as the use of water that is socially equitable,
environmentally sustainable and economically beneficial, achieved through a stakeholder-
inclusive process that involves site- and catchment-based actions.

27

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GSTC

Sustainable Tourism Training Program

Last updated: 10 Feb 2018

I. Introduction to the GSTC

Accreditation vs. Certification

GSTC Accreditation for Certifying Bodies

II. Introduction to Sustainable Tourism

12 Aims for Sustainable Tourism

Tourism and SDGs

GSTC Criteria and Indicators for Hotels and Tour Operators

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

A: Demonstrate effective sustainable management

A1 Sustainability a. The Sustainability Management a. The Sustainability Management

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

A4 Staff engagement a. Evidence is available of staff a. Evidence is available of staff

A5 Customer experience a. A customer feedback system is in a. A customer feedback system is in

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

A9 Information and a. Information/interpretation a. Information/interpretation

A10 Destination a. The organization is a member of a. The organization is in contact with

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

B2 Local employment a. The proportion of total a. The organization seeks to provide

B4 Local entrepreneurs a. Locally owned businesses are a. Where appropriate, the

B5 Exploitation and a. The organization has a a. The organization has a

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

B7 Decent work a. The organization demonstrates a. The organization demonstrates

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

B9 Local livelihoods a. Local access to livelihoods is a. Local access to livelihoods is

C: Maximize benefits to cultural heritage and minimize negative impacts

C1 Cultural interactions a. The organization demonstrates a. The organization demonstrates

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

C4 Artefacts a. Any use of artefacts is transparent a. Any use of artefacts is transparent

D: Maximize benefits to the environment and minimize negative impacts

D1.1 Environmentally a. A documented environmental a. A documented environmental

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

D1.2 Efficient purchasing a. Purchasing favours reusable, d. Purchasing favours reusable,

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

D2.3 Wastewater a. Wastewater is disposed of to a a. The organization is aware of

D2.5 Harmful substances a. An inventory of harmful a. An inventory of harmful

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

D3 Conserving biodiversity, ecosystems and landscapes

D3.1 Biodiversity a. The organization demonstrates a. The organization demonstrates

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

INDICATORS FOR TOUR

III. GSTC Criteria for Destinations

GSTC Criteria and Indicators for Destinations

A: Demonstrate sustainable destination management

A3 Monitoring a. Active monitoring and public reporting of environmental,

A7 Planning Regulations a. Planning or zoning guidelines, regulations and/or policies

A9 Property acquisitions a. Policy or legislation, including enforcement provisions,

A11 Sustainability standards a. Industry-supported sustainable tourism certification or

A14 Promotion a. Destination promotional messages that represent local

B2 Local career opportunities a. Legislation or policies supporting equal opportunities in

B4 Local community opinion a. Regular collection, monitoring, recording, and public

B5 Local access a. Programs to monitor, protect, and rehabilitate or restore

C: Maximize benefits to communities, visitors, and culture; minimize negative impacts

C3 Visitor behavior a. Cultural and environmental guidelines for visitor

C4 Cultural heritage protection a. Laws or regulations to protect historical and

C5 Site interpretation a. Interpretive information available to visitors in tourist

C6 Intellectual property a. Laws, regulations or programs to protect intellectual

D2 Protection of sensitive environments a. Maintained and updated inventory of sensitive and