GSTC – Global Sustainable Tourism Council
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s (GSTC) criteria are an effort to come to a common understanding of sustainable tourism and are the minimum that any tourism business should aspire to reach.
GSTC – Global Sustainable Tourism Council
About the standard
The GSTC criteria define a minimum global sustainability framework for the tourism sector, organized into four pillars: sustainable management, socioeconomic impact, cultural impact, and environmental management. This is an international standard endorsed by organizations such as the UNWTO, UNEP, and the Rainforest Alliance, developed through an inclusive process and aligned with the ISEAL Code of Good Practice.
Features
GSTC certification brings multiple benefits, including:
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Compliance with the most demanding standards of environmental and social sustainability.
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Access to responsible markets and differentiation in an increasingly conscious sector.
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Greater credibility with guests, communities, brands, and OTAs.
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Improved online ratings and recognition as a preferred choice on travel platforms.
Who can obtain GSTC certification?
They can certify:
- Hotels and accommodations.
- Tour operators (tours, agencies, experiences).
- Destinations or projects linked to events and exhibitions (MICE, attractions).
Certification is suitable for both companies and destinations that meet established industry criteria or local policies.
Why choose a Control Union?
Control Union was the first GSTC-accredited body to certify hotels and tour operators, and offers a comprehensive service with a global presence in more than 70 countries.
