Currently, 3 accommodation programs, 4 tour-operator programs, and 3 destination programs hold the GSTC-Accredited status.
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) announced that Bureau Veritas Certification Hong Kong has achieved the ‘GSTC-Accredited’ status for certifying hotels and tour operators.
Achieving the GSTC-Accredited status means that a certification program is following processes and procedures that have been reviewed and approved by the GSTC Accreditation Panel and by ASI (Assurance Services International), GSTC’s partner in managing the accreditation process, in order to provide an independent and trustworthy qualification of the GSTC-Accredited certification body.
Businesses and Destinations certified by a GSTC-Accredited certification program can also use the GSTC language and logo when they meet all GSTC Criteria. The purpose of the GSTC programs is to reward genuine practitioners of sustainable tourism, which in turn builds confidence and credibility with consumers.
Bureau Veritas is a world leader in laboratory testing, inspection and certification services. Since its creation in 1828, Bureau Veritas has been supporting its clients on every continent to continually improve their performance via certification of management systems, product certifications and customized audits.
“Increasingly, travelers and travel providers are seeking confirmation that sustainability practices are in place. Also increasingly, travel companies are looking for services that are not only certified sustainable, but certified sustainable by an accredited certifying body, such as Bureau Veritas Certification. Our certified businesses will be able to use the GSTC logo and participate in the GSTC’s market access program” says Fanny Zou, Bureau Veritas Certification General Manager, Greater China.
“This is a time when the pandemic forces tourism to stop but it also gives us the opportunity to reflect on its impacts and how these can be transformed into benefits. With its accreditation, Bureau Veritas Certification is now placed amongst a selected group of certification bodies that meet the highest standards. As soon as the recovery begins, it will offer the tourism businesses the option of managing all their operations in a truly sustainable manner,” says Luigi Cabrini, GSTC Chair.
Currently, 3 accommodation programs, 4 tour-operator programs, and 3 destination programs hold the GSTC-Accredited status. The completion of these step-wise programs rewards certification bodies for their commitment to sustainability while offering the market benefit of proof that their certification process is credible and adheres to international norms.
GSTC-Recognized standard owners are encouraged to join the leading GSTC-Accredited programs and complete the Accreditation process which relates to the quality and neutrality of their certification process. Achieving a GSTC-Accredited status affirms that the certification process follows the highest international standards while further distinguishing their standards and processes amongst other certification programs.
Tatiana is the news coordinator for TravelDailyNews Media Network (traveldailynews.gr, traveldailynews.com and traveldailynews.asia). Her role includes monitoring the hundreds of news sources of TravelDailyNews Media Network and skimming the most important according to our strategy.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
