Sustainable tourism certifications: what are they and how to obtain them?
In recent years, a trend has emerged that redefines the way we travel. In addition to seeing travel as an opportunity to relax and unwind, more and more people are looking to maintain their commitment to the environment, even while on vacation, by supporting local communities and preserving their traditions.
Do a hotel's sustainable practices influence the choice of accommodation? According to the Sustainable Travel Report 2024for 40% of Spanish travelers this is a key factor when deciding where to stay. But how do you know if a hotel really complies with the sustainable tourism principles it promotes? For this, there are sustainability certifications, which we will explore in this article.
What are sustainable certifications in tourism?
Sustainable certifications in tourism are a guarantee that companies comply with responsible practices, avoiding greenwashing, a strategy by which a false ecological image is presented. These certifications standardize sustainable practices, offering clear guidelines.
Although they are not mandatory, they offer multiple benefits. For tourism companies, they improve efficiency in the use of resources, reducing costs and increasing their attractiveness to tourists, as well as favoring relations with local communities. For travelers, certifications allow them to make informed choices about environmentally and socially responsible businesses. Local communities also benefit, since certifications require the protection of the environment and culture, guaranteeing economic and social benefits.
It is crucial to select reliable and rigorous certifications by seeking advice from sustainability experts to ensure an appropriate choice.
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Environment Award 2023
BARCELÓ HOTEL GROUP
La Bobadilla, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, represents the perfect example of a great company's commitment to sustainability and integration into the natural environment. Located in a privileged rural setting, the hotel adopts eco-efficient practices that minimize its environmental impact, from the responsible use of natural resources to the implementation of renewable energies.
Types of sustainability certificates
Among the most important sustainability certificates are those approved by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC)which ensure that organizations maximize the environmental benefits of their activities and minimize negative impacts.
The European Union also has its own distinction, the EU Ecolabelwhich certifies products and services that meet strict environmental standards throughout their entire life cycle, from the extraction of raw materials to disposal. The process for obtaining this label involves seven steps, from registration in the European Ecolabel (EEA) ECAT, to final assessment by a competent body.
In addition to these, there are numerous national and international certifications. It is important to select those that offer proven scientific rigor and a solid reputation. To this end, it is advisable to seek the advice of sustainability experts, who can help choose the most appropriate certifications according to the needs and objectives of each company or tourism project.
How to obtain a sustainable certificate?
To obtain a sustainability certificate, companies must meet a series of requirements that demonstrate their commitment to responsible environmental practices. These criteria vary by certifier, but typically include key aspects such as waste management, carbon footprint reduction and energy efficiency. In addition, many certifications also evaluate sustainability in the supply chain, such as the suppliers used.
In general, tourism companies have dedicated sustainability departments that collect and analyze the data needed to meet the requirements of these certifications. However, hiring a professional specialized in sustainability is a highly recommended option. This expert ensures the correct collection and analysis of data, as well as helping to identify the most appropriate certifications for the company's objectives and guiding in the process of obtaining the certificate.
In conclusion, the relationship between tourism and sustainability is not a passing trend, but a response to a more conscious and demanding consumer. Sustainability has become a differentiating element that improves the positioning of tourism companies. Communicating these efforts in an honest and transparent way to the client, with the support of certifications, is a key element to stand out in the market.