WTTC partners with GSTC to strengthen hotel sustainability standards

24-10-23

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) have announced a major new partnership, aligning to establish a unified framework for hotel sustainability, leading to GSTC certification.

"Collaborating with such a valued body as GSTC reinforces our dedication to leading the industry towards a more sustainable future. It is imperative that we work with key global players like GSTC to drive change, set benchmarks and inspire others to follow," said Julia Simpson, president and CEO of WTTC.

"With members around the world, GSTC's rigorous accreditation program not only elevates our initiative, but also ensures that the hotel industry worldwide is moving toward a unified vision of sustainability," Simpson continued, as quoted by Travel Daily Media.

Randy Durband, executive director of GSTC, explained that "this new certification is a finely crafted entry level for hotels of any size and type to begin their journey towards sustainable practices."

The WTTC's basic concepts of hotel sustainability are already accessible to the industry, and the Council's second and intermediate verification program is scheduled to launch in 2024.