The GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) is a non-governmental organization established in 2007 with the support of UNEP – United Nations Environment Programme – and UNWTO – United Nations World Tourism Organization – to promote sustainability and social responsibility in the tourism sector.

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council® (GSTC) establishes and manages global standards for sustainable travel and tourism, known as the GSTC Criteria.

GCL International Ltd is accredited to certify against voluntary sustainability standards – GSTC Hotel Criteria

GCL Accredited Geographic Area: Vietnam, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Türkiye, Thailand, Taiwan, Spain, Singapore, Russia, Romania, South Korea, Qatar, Philippines, Panama, Palestine, Pakistan, Myanmar, Mexico, Malaysia, Japan, Italy, Iran, Indonesia, India, Bulgaria, Bangladesh, Australia.

Businesses certified by a GSTC-Accredited Certification Body, meeting all the GSTC Criteria have the highest level of assurance and credibility available. With an accredited certification, customers and buyers are assured that the business was certified in a credibly verified procedure in a transparent, impartial, and competent manner.

GSTC Certification can help tourism businesses to redefine the way they do business to drive a positive social, cultural, environmental, and economic impact.

Why Pursue GSTC Certification?

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Certification is a globally recognized standard for sustainable tourism, offering numerous advantages for businesses in the travel and hospitality industry. By obtaining GSTC Certification, your entity not only demonstrates a commitment to sustainability but also gains a competitive edge in the evolving tourism market. Here’s an overview of its key benefits:

• Global Recognition and Credibility

GSTC Certification is acknowledged worldwide as a benchmark for sustainable tourism. It provides businesses with the highest level of assurance and credibility, aligning them with global sustainability standards. This certification ensures that your business meets rigorous environmental, social, cultural, and economic criteria, enhancing its reputation in the global market.

• Market Differentiation

In a competitive tourism market, GSTC Certification helps your business stand out by demonstrating a genuine commitment to sustainability. It distinguishes your offerings from others, attracting eco-conscious travellers and partners who prioritize responsible tourism practices.

• Consumer Trust

Consumers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly and socially responsible options. According to Booking.com 2024 Travel Predictions, over half of travellers (53%) are looking for accommodations with sustainability innovations. GSTC Certification builds consumer trust by providing verified, third-party assurance of your sustainable practices.

• Environmental and Biodiversity Conservation

GSTC Certification requires businesses to implement practices that minimize environmental impact and promote biodiversity conservation. This includes reducing carbon footprints, managing waste responsibly, and supporting local ecosystems, contributing to the preservation of natural resources.

• Cultural Respect and Preservation

The certification emphasizes the importance of respecting and preserving local cultures. It encourages businesses to engage with local communities, promote cultural heritage, and ensure that tourism benefits are equitably distributed, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

• Community Engagement and Local Economic Growth

GSTC Certification supports community engagement by encouraging businesses to involve local populations in decision-making processes. This approach promotes local economic growth through job creation, skill development, and the support of local enterprises, leading to sustainable development.

• International Recognition

The certification is recognized by international organizations, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This global recognition enhances your business’s credibility and opens doors to international markets and partnerships.

• Promotion of Your Certifications

GSTC Certification can enhance your visibility on major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com, EasyJet Holidays, and platforms such as AMEX GBT. These platforms often highlight certified sustainable businesses, providing them with exclusive prominence among eco-conscious travellers.

Certification Process Overview

1. Application to GCL

To initiate the certification journey with GCL International Ltd, hotels or resort whether operating as a single entity, a multisite organization, or as part of a group should begin by submitting an application to the GCL portal. This step involves providing necessary documentation and information about the organization’s operations and compliance requirements.

2. Certification Agreement and Fee Payment

Upon acceptance of the application, the organization enters into a formal agreement with GCL. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of the certification process, including the scope of certification and associated fees.

3. Pre-Assessment and/or On-Site Assessment

GCL conducts a preliminary evaluation, which may include a pre-assessment and/or an on-site audit. This phase assesses the organization’s readiness for certification by reviewing processes, systems, and compliance with relevant standards.

4. Audit Report and Issuance of Non-Conformities

Following the assessment, GCL provides a detailed audit report highlighting findings and identifying any non-conformities. These are areas where the organization does not meet the required standards and need corrective actions.

5. Receipt and Review of Corrective Actions

The organization submits corrective action plans to address the identified non-conformities. GCL reviews these plans to ensure they are adequate and effective in resolving the issues.

6. Certification (with 3 Years Validity)

Once corrective actions are verified and deemed satisfactory, GCL grants certification to the organization. This certification is typically valid for three years, confirming compliance with the applicable standards.

7. Annual Surveillance (Remote/On-Site)

To maintain certification, GCL conducts annual surveillance audits, which may be remote or on-site. These audits ensure that the organization continues to adhere to the required standards and maintains its compliance status.

8. Recertification

Before the expiration of the initial certification, the organization undergoes a recertification process. This involves a comprehensive evaluation to confirm ongoing compliance and to renew the certification for another term.

How GCL International Supports You

• GSTC-Accredited Certification: Our certifications are officially recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), ensuring adherence to the highest global standards in sustainable tourism.
• Decades of Expertise: With over 30 years in the certification industry, GCL International Ltd offers extensive experience in helping tourism businesses identify risks and opportunities, enhancing operations and achieving sustainability objectives.
• Global Presence, Local Impact: Operating in 50 countries with numerous local offices, GCL International Ltd combines global reach with local expertise to serve diverse markets effectively.
• Trust and Credibility: Obtaining certification from GCL International Ltd provides tourism providers with the tools to demonstrate their commitment to responsible tourism to customers, partners, and stakeholders.
• Customized Solutions: Recognizing the uniqueness of each organization, our audit solutions are tailored to align with your specific operations, goals, and supply chain complexities.
• Efficiency and Precision: We ensure timely and accurate reporting, delivering a smooth certification process that minimizes disruption and maximizes value.
• Digital Accessibility: Our user-friendly online portal facilitates seamless application, document submission, and certification tracking, providing access anytime, anywhere.

How to start

To embark on your journey towards GSTC certification, please submit your application on GCL portal. GCL is ready to assist you in integrating sustainable practices that will enhance your hotel’s reputation and operational success. GCL understands that sustainability is no longer just a trend—it’s a necessity. GCL. Special discounts are available for multisite and group certifications.

Need Assistance?

For more information or assistance, feel free to reach out to us at gstc@gcl-intl.com. We’re here to help!

• GSTC Accreditation Manual for Certification Bodies – Industry_ Hotel/Accommodation & Tour Operator version 4.1 (February 2025)
• GSTC Accreditation Glossary v1.0
• Logo Usage Guidelines for Certified Entities
• GSTC Scheme Rules
• GSTC Industry Criteria Version 3 with Performance indicators For Hotels and Accommodations and corresponding SDGs