Public input welcome: GSTC attraction criteria 1st consultation open now

Monday, January 22, 2024

In April 2023, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) unveiled its latest initiatives with the Singapore Tourism Board STB’s backing: the GSTC MICE Criteria and GSTC Attraction Criteria. These criteria sets, covering Venues, Event Organizers, and Events/Exhibitions, are designed to establish global sustainability standards for the respective industries.

The first round of public consultation for the GSTC Attraction Criteria is now underway and will continue until March 15, 2024 (60 days). Professionals and practitioners in the attraction sector are encouraged to contribute their insights during this initial consultation phase.

The GSTC Attraction Criteria consists of four sections: A (Demonstrate effective sustainable management), B (Maximize social and economic benefits to the local community and minimize negative impacts), C (Maximize benefits to cultural heritage and minimize negative impacts), and D (Maximize benefits to the environment and minimize negative impacts).

Alternatively, if you wish to focus on a specific section, click on the corresponding links below:

• [Section A: Demonstrate effective sustainable management](Survey Link)
• [Section B: Maximize social and economic benefits to the local community and minimize negative impacts](Survey Link)
• [Section C: Maximize benefits to cultural heritage and minimize negative impacts](Survey Link)
• [Section D: Maximize benefits to the environment and minimize negative impacts](Survey Link)

Feel free to share this invitation with individuals involved in tourist attractions and sustainability, such as theme parks, museums, attractions, national parks, tour operators, travel agents, hotel owners, event planners, policymakers, academics, non-profits, community members, or individual travelers.

Following the conclusion of the initial public consultation, a comprehensive review and revision process will take place, culminating in a feasibility assessment and drafting revisions as necessary.

Participants at the GSTC2024 Conference in Stockholm, Sweden, from April 23-26, will have the opportunity to engage in an in-person consultation workshop about the GSTC Attraction Criteria.

The current Attraction Criteria Development Advisory Group comprises esteemed organizations such as the Singapore Tourism Board, Association of Singapore Attractions (ASA), The Global Association for the Attractions Industry (IAAPA), South African Tourism Services Association (SATSA), The Royal Djurgården Society, and U.S. National Park Service.

To delve deeper into GSTC Criteria Development, Feedback, and Revision, please explore additional information on the subject.

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