We all love to travel, but the foremost thought on everyone’s mind is to travel without the ‘carbon footprints’ destroying what we hold dear. After all, we want to save the natural and manmade wonders of the world for future generations to cherish.

With climate change, depleting resources, overcrowding, and the global appeal for iconic places, overtourism has become a systematic challenge. Moving toward pristine lands, slow travel, and minimalistic luxury requires a deliberate action plan. Travel Daily Media in an exclusive interview with Randy Durband, Chief Executive Officer of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, seeks pathways toward a sustainable future.

The GSTC Standards

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council® (GSTC) sets and manages global standards for sustainable travel and tourism. The GSTC Standards (previously known as the GSTC Criteria) serve as a benchmark for sustainable tourism and are utilized worldwide for education and certification.

Key areas of the GSTC Standards:

1. Sustainable management
2. Socioeconomic impacts
3. Cultural impacts
4. Environmental impacts

These standards represent minimum requirements instead of maximum targets and are tailored to adapt to local conditions across various destinations.

Certifications Matter

Travellers can practice responsible tourism by choosing services certified under GSTC Standards, ensuring that businesses uphold genuine sustainability practices.

Addressing Climate Change

Confronting climate change while promoting sustainable travel requires a balanced strategy that mitigates the environmental impact without undermining social and economic advantages. It involves fostering low-carbon options and integrating climate resilience into tourism.

Progress in Asia

Asia has seen a gradual but steady advancement in sustainability goals, with many destinations and businesses incorporating environmental, social, and cultural factors into their operations. The GSTC provides Sustainable Tourism Training Programs across Asia to bolster this growth.

10 Steps to Sustainable Travel

1. Choose certified sustainable accommodations and tour operators.
2. Support local communities through responsible service selection.
3. Minimize environmental impact by conserving resources.
4. Respect local cultures and traditions.
5. Inquire about sustainability practices before donating.
6. Utilize GSTC guidelines and resources.
7. Share knowledge to spread sustainable practices.
8. Stay updated on climate and biodiversity trends.
9. Apply principles of sustainability in daily decisions.
10. Reflect and adjust personal habits for a lighter impact.