Sustainable Tourism Opportunities: How GSTC Certification Can Transform Your Hotel’s Practices and Personna

Hotels around the world are making significant changes in their daily operations to be a part of the popular and potentially lucrative sustainable tourism movement.

As these businesses reach new heights and set more ambitious goals to reduce their carbon footprint, data will continue to be the best starting point for a robust and successful sustainability strategy.

Taking Action with Analytics

In 2024, Control Union Certifications (CUC) began working with a boutique hotel in Singapore. The hotel was already renowned for its exceptional guest experience and commitment to sustainability but faced a significant challenge. Due to being in a multi-use complex, it lacked precise data on energy usage as energy readings were shared with other tenants.

Without accurate data on energy consumption, the hotel struggled to identify areas for improving its energy efficiency. This lack of precise information hindered its ability to implement targeted energy-saving initiatives, resulting in a detrimental impact on its sustainability goals.

To overcome this challenge, the hotel decided to pursue GSTC certification, which provides a comprehensive framework for assessing and improving sustainability practices, including a strong emphasis on energy management.

The Benefits of Becoming Certified

As part of the certification process, the hotel introduced sub-metering to track and document its individual energy usage accurately. It began collecting and analyzing energy data each month, creating detailed reports that highlight consumption trends and identifying opportunities for energy savings.

The data revealed that the hotel’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system was a significant energy drain. By optimizing its settings and investing in more energy-efficient equipment, the hotel significantly reduced the HVAC’s energy usage.

Additionally, with clear data on energy consumption, the hotel was able to make a compelling case for investing in renewable energy sources. This move not only validated their commitment to sustainability but also enhanced their reputation among eco-conscious travellers.

Supported by the GSTC framework and verified by our expert auditors, the hotel improved its overall guest experience by providing a greener and more energy-efficient environment. Through targeted energy efficiency initiatives and renewable energy investments, the hotel reduced its environmental impact and strengthened its brand as a leader in sustainable tourism.

Since achieving GSTC certification, the boutique hotel has maintained its commitment to sustainability through continuous monitoring and improvement of its practices. The hotel undergoes annual audits by Control Union Certifications to ensure compliance with the latest sustainability standards.

What is the GSTC Certification?

GSTC stands for the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, widely regarded as the global standard for sustainable tourism. Established in 2007, the non-governmental organization provides criteria for hotels, tour operators, and destinations to comply with to earn an internationally recognized accreditation and stand at the forefront of sustainable tourism. Certification is achieved following a successful third-party audit conducted by an approved Certification Body.

CUC has been an approved GSTC Certification Body since 2019 and has conducted audits in 11 countries. As your global one-stop shop for GSTC certification, we partner with you to add proof to your sustainable tourism promise.

So whether you provide accommodation, represent a destination, or offer tours, you can start reaping the benefits of GSTC certification.