The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is pleased to announce that the Rainforest Alliance Sustainable Tourism Certification Program has achieved ‘GSTC-Approved’ status. The awarded status affirms the Rainforest Alliance’s commitment to promote sustainable tourism products and services.
The Rainforest Alliance Sustainable Tourism Certification Program is part of the Rainforest Alliance’s core work with hotels, tour operators, and other tourism businesses, to help them improve their environmental, social and economic practices. Tourism businesses that undergo a rigorous audit and demonstrate compliance with Rainforest Alliance sustainable tourism standards are granted the right to use the Rainforest Alliance Certified™ seal.
GSTC-Approved means that a certification program is following processes and procedures that have been reviewed and approved by the GSTC Accreditation Panel. Businesses certified by an approved certification program can also use the GSTC Certified language and logos when they meet all GSTC Criteria. The purpose of the GSTC programs is to recognize and reward genuine practitioners of sustainable tourism, which in turn builds confidence and credibility with consumers.
"The Rainforest Alliance has a high reputation and credibility worldwide for its commitment to sustainability,” says Luigi Cabrini, GSTC Chair. “Reaching the highest standard within the GSTC scheme is yet another testimony of its commitment and engagement."
“The Rainforest Alliance is excited to have achieved GSTC-Approved status. It is an honor to receive this level of recognition within the tourism industry,” says Ronald Sanabria, Vice President of Tourism for the Rainforest Alliance. “We will continue to promote tourism practices that protect natural landscapes and enhance sustainable livelihoods.”
To date, four standards have achieved GSTC-Approved status. The completion of these step-wise programs rewards standard owners for their commitment to sustainability while offering the market benefit of proof that these independent standards adhere to international norms.
The GSTC will continue to work with organizations around the world to provide GSTC Recognition, Approval & Accreditation of standards for sustainability in travel and tourism. GSTC-Recognized standard owners are encouraged to complete the Approved or Accreditation process in order to showcase excellence in their sustainability frameworks while further distinguishing their standards and processes amongst other certification programs. Learn more about GSTC Approval.