Choosing Sustainable Accommodations: Look for These Certifications

When planning a trip, choosing a sustainable accommodation may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, if you care about the environment and want to minimize your travel’s impact, it’s worth considering. Sustainable accommodations are those that prioritize eco-friendly practices, such as conservation of resources, waste reduction, and support for local communities. But with various options available, how do you ensure that you’re truly choosing a sustainable accommodation? The answer lies in certifications. In this article, we will discuss the importance of choosing certified sustainable accommodations and look into the different certifications to look for.

What is Sustainable Tourism and Why is Certification Important?

Sustainable tourism, also known as responsible tourism or eco-tourism, aims to minimize the negative impacts of tourism on the environment and local communities while providing economic benefits. Sustainable accommodations play a vital role in achieving sustainable tourism. They are not only environmentally friendly but also socially responsible and economically viable. Choosing such accommodations helps reduce carbon footprint and promote biodiversity, contributing to a more sustainable future for our planet.

However, with the increase in greenwashing and false claims of being sustainable, it can be challenging to identify which accommodations truly follow sustainable practices. This is where certifications come into play. Certifications serve as third-party verification that an accommodation meets certain sustainability standards and practices. They help travelers make informed decisions and ensure that their accommodation of choice is genuinely sustainable.

The Different Certifications to Look For

1. LEED Certification

The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is one of the most widely recognized green building certification programs. It assesses the design, construction, and operation of buildings, including hotels, under different categories such as energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable materials. Accommodations with a LEED certification have a clear commitment to sustainable practices and have been designed and built with the environment in mind.

2. Green Key Certification

The Green Key certification is a leading standard of excellence for environmental responsibility and sustainable practices in the tourism industry. Accommodations that receive this certification must meet specific criteria related to energy conservation, water and waste management, and responsible purchasing. They must also demonstrate a commitment to promoting environmental awareness among guests and staff.

3. Rainforest Alliance Certification

The Rainforest Alliance certification focuses on sustainable forestry practices and sustainable tourism. Accommodations that receive this certification must adhere to strict criteria that cover environmental, social, and economic aspects. They must also demonstrate a commitment to conserving natural resources, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and protecting biodiversity.

4. Green Globe Certification

Green Globe is a globally recognized certification program that assesses the sustainability performance of travel and tourism businesses, including hotels and resorts. To receive this certification, accommodations must demonstrate compliance with a set of internationally recognized criteria, such as energy and water use, waste management, and social responsibility. Green Globe also requires annual re-certification to ensure that the accommodation continues to meet sustainable practices.

5. Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Certification

The GSTC certification is considered the gold standard of sustainable tourism certifications. It is based on internationally recognized sustainable tourism criteria that cover the three pillars of sustainability – environmental, social, and economic. To receive this certification, accommodations must demonstrate their commitment to these sustainability principles and show how they are making a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

The Benefits of Choosing Certified Sustainable Accommodations

Choosing certified sustainable accommodations not only helps minimize your travel’s impact on the environment but also has a positive economic and social impact. These accommodations are often locally owned, supporting the local economy. They also promote community involvement and cultural preservation. Moreover, staying at a sustainable accommodation can enhance your travel experience as they often offer unique and authentic experiences that are not available at traditional accommodations.

Furthermore, supporting sustainable tourism can also inspire other accommodations to adopt more sustainable practices, contributing to a more significant shift towards sustainability in the tourism industry.

Conclusion

In a world where the tourism industry is rapidly growing and its impact on the environment is increasing, choosing a sustainable accommodation can make a significant difference. By looking for certifications such as LEED, Green Key, Rainforest Alliance, Green Globe, and GSTC, you can ensure that your accommodation is truly sustainable. Not only will you have a more eco-friendly trip, but you will also support the local economy and have a more enriching travel experience. So, the next time you plan a trip, remember to look for these certifications and make a sustainable choice for a better future.