As a result of this revision, the former single GSTC Industry Standard,
which previously included two sets of performance indicators within one
framework, has now been formally divided into two distinct standards: the GSTC
Hotel Standard and the GSTC Tour Operator Standard. The change is intended to
better address the operational realities and sustainability challenges faced by
different types of tourism businesses.
With this milestone, the total number of published GSTC Standards has
increased to five. These include the GSTC Destination Standard, designed for
public policy-makers and destination management organisations; the GSTC Hotel
Standard, applicable to hotels and all types of accommodation regardless of
size or location; the GSTC Tour Operator Standard, covering tour operators of
all scales; the GSTC MICE Standard for venues, event organisers, and
exhibitions; and the GSTC Attraction Standard for tourism attractions such as
theme parks, museums, and natural or cultural parks.
A visual for the Standard revision process is shown below:
In parallel, the GSTC confirmed that work is ongoing on the GSTC Food and
Beverage Service Provider Standard, which is currently under development and is
expected to be launched in early 2026.
Commenting on the revision, Randy Durband, Chief Executive Officer of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, said: “This fourth revision marks an important step forward in our ongoing effort to ensure that the GSTC Standards remain relevant, practical, and globally applicable. By separating the Industry Standard into two distinct standards for hotels on one side, and tour operators on the other, we are better supporting the diverse realities of tourism businesses around the world while maintaining the same vision: to strengthen the holistic approach to sustainability management that balances environmental integrity, cultural respect, and economic viability within the tourism sector.”
The updated structure provides clearer, more targeted guidance for
sustainability management and certification pathways, while maintaining
consistency across the broader GSTC framework used by destinations,
accommodation providers, operators, event venues, and attractions worldwide.
Tags: Randy Durband, Global Sustainable Tourism
