Client Case: Ecotourism
Certification Success for a Leading Tour Operator
Context & Objectives
A leading tour operator pursued EarthCheck re-certification and GSTC certification to reinforce its sustainability credentials. The goal was to embed green travel practices across operations, strengthen competitive advantage, and position the brand as the first choice for partners and guests.
Challenges
The operator contended with:
- Infrastructure gaps in clean energy and sustainable transportation.
- Climate-related constraints, such as limited rainfall, necessitate heavy reliance on imports.
- Policy limitations restrict large-scale adoption of sustainability practices.
Our Role
Our team provided an on-site certification audit, identifying compliance achievements and highlighting areas for improvement. The findings empowered the operator to take corrective action while leveraging their strong staff culture and guest engagement practices.
Results
- Certification Achieved: Successfully awarded both EarthCheck and GSTC certifications.
- Operational Improvements: Lowered energy use, improved water efficiency, and strengthened waste diversion systems.
- Community & Guest Engagement: Integration of local culture and history into tours, sourcing meals from visited communities, and enhanced accessibility for differently abled guests. Guides were trained to communicate sustainability effectively, resulting in positive guest feedback.
Key Success Factors: Leadership commitment, staff empowerment, and exceptional guest engagement.
Lessons & Replicable Practices
- Quick wins: strong data management for energy/water/waste, water collection programs (rainwater and AC condensate), and partnerships with NGOs for guest education.
- Longer-term needs: expanded infrastructure and stronger policy frameworks to reduce reliance on imports.
Related Service:
We provide Ecotourism services in multiple places, which are shown on our Ecotourism Page.