GSTC CERTIFICATION – HOTEL
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is the main international organization engaged in the promotion of sustainable tourism.
With the GSTC certification, accommodation facilities can demonstrate their commitment to sustainable tourism through a credible and internationally recognized brand.
The hotel standard, recognized worldwide, is made up of various criteria that are developed around four fundamental concepts:
- Demonstrate effective sustainable management (Governance)
- Maximize social and economic benefits for the local community and minimize negative impacts
- Maximize the benefits to cultural heritage and minimize the negative impact
- Maximize the benefits to the environment and minimize the negative impact
The GSTC mark is obtained through the Vireo certification service.
Vireo is a certification body accredited by Accredia for hotels and tour operator certification. This means that the certification service is carried out and managed according to the accreditation standard, which defines methods, procedures and timing for verification audits ensuring the independence and credibility of the entire system, in compliance with European regulation CE 765/2008. Vireo is accredited according to ISO 17065 for the GSTC scheme worldwide, the accreditation certificate can be downloaded at the following link.
Vireo’s GSTC accreditation can also be easily verified on the GSTC page at the following link.
Vireo South Tyrol
In October 2021 Vireo opened operational headquarters in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano dedicated to GSTC Certification.
FAQ
What are the main characteristics of the GSTC Standard?
The GSTC certification aims to promote the concept of sustainability in the tourism sector in a practical and comprehensive way, through the implementation of basic principles and requirements which reduce the impact on the environment, highlight the local cultural heritage and optimize social and economic benefits for local communities.
What is the certification process like?
When the company is ready to be audited, Vireo schedules a first certification audit (Main Assessment). In this phase, the requirements of the GSTC standard applicable to the structure are verified and, if compliance is established, a certificate is issued a few days after the audit.
What is the duration of a GSTC certificate?
he GSTC certificate has a duration of 3 years.
What are the benefits for organizations holding GSTC certification?
Hotel and resort guests are increasingly concerned about the sustainability of the services and products offered and they are aware of the need to adopt measures aimed at protecting and safeguarding the environment. The GSTC standard is internationally recognized and allows certified hotels to demonstrate their commitment to implementing and promoting a management system which is sustainable from an environmental, social and economic point of view.
How can your guests recognize a GSTC certified facility?
GSTC certified hospitality establishments can promote their status by using the GSTC logo on their website and promotional materials, differentiating their resort and publicizing their commitment to implementing a sustainable business management system.
Why choose Vireo as a certification body?
Vireo is a young and dynamic certification body, capable of managing certification thanks to a profound knowledge of the standards and the competence and professionalism of its auditors.
Companies choose us because we offer a service characterized by great flexibility, availability and promptness towards the customer.
Does Vireo have a valid accreditation to issue GSTC certificates?
Downloads
GSCT TERMS AND CONDITIONS – ITA
GSTC TERMS AND CONDITIONS – ENG
By signing the quote, the client declares to have downloaded this contractual document, to have carefully read it and to accept its contents.
GSTC CRITERIA FOR DESTINATIONS
GSTC CRITERIA FOR HOTELS
GSTC CRITERIA FOR TOUR OPERATORS
