Saturday, August 24, 2024 The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) recently concluded its Hotel Sustainability Training for industry professionals on August 2nd, 2024. Organized in partnership with Agoda and the U.S.
Agency for International Development (USAID), this two-day event in Colombo, Sri Lanka, aimed to equip hoteliers with the skills necessary to implement sustainable practices according to GSTC Criteria, the global benchmark for sustainability in tourism. Hosted at the Taj Samudra Colombo Hotel, the training drew over 50 participants from various segments of the hospitality industry. Attendees included representatives from international hotel chains such as Hilton Colombo and Radisson Hotel Group, as well as domestic brands like Aitken Spence and Oak Ray Hotels and Resorts.
Independent establishments like The Merchant Galle Fort and Galadari Hotel Colombo were also represented. “The concept of sustainable tourism is gaining momentum as more travelers become aware of the environmental and social impacts of their journeys,” said DCM Sonnek . “Whether it’s seen as a trend or something more enduring, we all share a responsibility—both as travelers and as part of the tourism industry—to reduce any negative effects on the environment.
The United States supports sustainable tourism because it not only protects our planet but also ensures that communities around the world can benefit from tourism in a way that is fair, responsible, and long-lasting.” Thi.