Theme 1: Coastal and Island Tourism

Reef Protection, Coral Restoration, and Responsible Diving

This session will explore the critical role of sustainable practices in protecting coral reefs, restoring damaged ecosystems, and promoting responsible diving. Panelists will discuss best practices for coral restoration techniques, the impact of tourism on reef health, and strategies for ensuring that diving and snorkeling activities contribute to conservation efforts. The session will highlight how raising awareness among both locals and visitors is key to fostering a culture of sustainability and reef protection. Attendees will gain insights into how educational initiatives can drive responsible behavior and empower communities to engage in the preservation of marine biodiversity.

• Helen Sykes – Owner, Marine Ecology Consulting / Director, Resort Support
• Dr. Frank Griffin – Executive Director, The Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries, and Food Security (CTI-CFF)

Islands’ Inland: Not only Sea & Sun

Traditionally, island tourism has centered around beaches and coastal attractions. This session shifts the spotlight inland, highlighting the opportunities for developing diverse tourism experiences away from the shoreline. Discussions will explore how cultural, nature-based, and adventure tourism can thrive in lesser-known inland areas, contributing to balanced growth and sustainable visitor experiences. Attendees will gain insights into practical strategies for promoting inland destinations and fostering tourism that benefits communities across the entire island.

Speakers:

• Marita Manley – Director, Talanoa Treks / Founder & Principal Consultant, Talanoa Consulting

Small Island Destination Management

This session will address the unique challenges and opportunities in managing tourism for small island destinations from different perspectives. Panelists will discuss key aspects such as balancing visitor growth with environmental protection, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring economic benefits for local communities. Best practices in sustainable destination management will be highlighted, with a focus on governance, community engagement, and resilience planning in the face of climate change. Attendees will gain actionable insights into strategies that promote long-term sustainability while maintaining the distinctive character and natural beauty of island destinations like Fiji.

• Janel Campbell – Senior Manager, Sustainable Tourism, The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
• Marzeta Bodden – Deputy Director, Tourism Product Development, Cayman Islands Department of Tourism

Sustainable Hospitality and Coastal Development

This session will focus on hospitality in coastal areas, exploring how hotels and resorts can be built and operated in a more sustainable manner. Key topics include responsible coastal development, protecting ecosystems, and adapting accommodations to climate challenges. Learn how the hospitality industry can play a crucial role in both enhancing guest experiences and ensuring the long-term sustainability of coastal destinations.

Moderator: Koko Tang – Founder, Colorful Earth; GSTC Board Member

• Amy Breckon – Senior Program Officer, Coastal Tourism + Development, World Wildlife Fund
• Bhummikitti Riktaengam – President, Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation, Phuket

Theme 2: Community, Culture, and Responsible Development

Leveraging Local Culture for Tourism

With a focus on Pacific-led models and community-driven initiatives, this session will explore how integrating local culture into tourism experiences can create more authentic, sustainable, and meaningful visitor engagements while directly benefiting host communities. Panelists will discuss best practices for showcasing traditional customs, arts, cuisine, and storytelling as essential elements of destination identity.

The session will feature examples of how cultural tourism, when thoughtfully and responsibly managed, can preserve heritage, empower local artisans and cultural practitioners, and generate lasting economic opportunities.

Moderator: Prof. Joseph Cheer – Professor of Sustainable Tourism, Western Sydney University

• Ivan Henares, President of the International Cultural Tourism Committee of ICOMOS
• Brent Hill – CEO, Tourism Fiji
• Kylie Ruwhiu-Karawana – Managing Director, TRC Tourism

Workforce Development & Community Empowerment

This session explores strategies to build a sustainable and inclusive tourism industry. Key topics include upskilling the workforce with sustainability-focused training, promoting ethical employment practices to ensure fair wages, and engaging local communities in destination stewardship. Discover how collaboration between businesses, governments, and communities can foster a responsible tourism model that benefits both people and the planet.

Moderator: Natalie Kidd – Managing Director, Asia and Global Operations, Intrepid; GSTC Board Member

• Kuniko Takasaki – Managing Executive Officer, Chief DEIB Officer, of JTB Group

Connecting Global Partners with Local Community Development

This session will explore how global partnerships can help drive local tourism initiatives that support communities, preserve culture, and encourage sustainable development. It will highlight practical ways to connect international organizations and investors with locally led projects that reflect community needs and values.

Key topics will include successful partnership models, attracting impact investment for community-based tourism, and the role of policy and governance in supporting sustainable tourism financing.

Moderator: David Ermen – Managing Director, Destination Capacity

Sustainable Certification for Micro and Small Enterprises: Opportunities and Challenges

This session will unpack the benefits and process of achieving GSTC certification, with a focus on micro and small enterprises. Attendees will learn about the main challenges and opportunities drawing from the journeys from different enterprises and other stakeholders involved in SME Certification. The session will also provide practical guidance on improvement plans and actionable steps for businesses looking to boost their sustainability efforts.

Moderator: Randy Durband – CEO, GSTC

• Elif Balcı Fisunoğlu – Vice General Manager, Tourism Operations and Development Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA)

Cruises, Yachts, Ports and Destinations

This session will explore the complex dynamics between cruises, yachts, ports, and the destinations they serve, with a focus on promoting sustainable growth across small islands and coastal communities. Panelists will discuss the environmental, social, and economic impacts of maritime tourism, highlighting strategies to minimize negative effects while maximizing benefits.

Key topics will include port infrastructure development, sustainable yacht tourism, and destination resilience. Special attention will be given to dispersing tourism across secondary destinations, empowering local communities in less-visited areas, and fostering destination stewardship. Discussions will also address how cruise lines and Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) can contribute to leaving destinations in better condition, and how small destinations can develop sustainably within the larger tourism ecosystem.

Moderator: Leigh Howard – Chief Operating Officer, Tropica Group of Companies

• Vaihere Lissant – CEO, Tahiti Tourisme
• Joel Katz – Managing Director, Australasia, Cruise Lines Association Lines/CLIA

Theme 3: Climate Resilience, Adaption, and Sustainable Recovery

Destination Roadmaps and Sustainability Plans

This session will focus on the development and implementation of destination roadmaps and sustainability plans as essential tools for guiding sustainable tourism growth. Panelists will share insights on how to create comprehensive strategies that balance environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and economic development. Case studies will highlight collaborative approaches involving local governments, industry stakeholders, and communities to establish long-term goals and measurable outcomes.

Moderator: Andrew Leary – Principal, Coraggio Group

• Chris Cocker – CEO, Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO)
• Karla Eggelton – CEO, Cook Islands Tourism Marketing Corporation

Climate Resilience, Disasters, and Sustainable Recovery

This session will address how destinations can prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters while prioritizing sustainability and resilience. Panelists will discuss disaster risk management, climate adaptation strategies, and the critical role of local communities and tourism stakeholders in recovery efforts. Case studies will highlight successful recovery initiatives that balance rebuilding with sustainability, focusing on restoring ecosystems, protecting livelihoods, and fostering long-term resilience.

Moderator: Matthew Landkamer – Founding Principal, Whereabout

• Kasi Taukeinikoro – Director, Rivers Fiji
• Prof. James Daniell, Co-founder, Risklayer
  

Sustainability Measurement & Evaluation

Measurement and evaluation is a crucial part of sustainability in tourism and is often mentioned in the suggested performance indicators of the GSTC Standards (formerly known as GSTC Criteria). Join industry leaders and experts as we navigate the complex landscape of sustainability measurement and evaluation, learning from a comprehensive discussion that includes stats, trends, and useful examples. This session will provide insights into effective evaluation techniques that drive continual improvement in sustainability practices, ensuring a responsible and measurable approach to tourism.

Moderator: Jason Lin – Co-founder & CEO, Hotelzero

• Dr. Susanne Becken – Professor of Sustainable Tourism, Griffith University
• Olivier Ponti – Director of Intelligence & Marketing, ForwardKeys
• Christopher Hancock – Senior Director, Global Procurement and Environmental Programs, Destination Canada
• Susana Vicente Álamo – ESG Director, Peninsula Papagayo

Sustainability in Attractions

Attractions are a critical component of the tourism industry, with millions of visitors visiting popular destinations worldwide, and therefore play an important role in shaping experiences. Attractions have the power to promote sustainable practices, preserve cultural heritage, and protect natural resources. Sustainable management practices in attractions can minimize these impacts while providing a quality visitor experience. In addition, attractions can act as ambassadors for sustainability and inspire visitors to engage in sustainable behaviors. Sustainable management in attractions includes a range of strategies, from efficient resource management to promoting local cultures and heritage. Through discussion and case studies, the panel will explore best practices, challenges, and opportunities for creating sustainable attractions that benefit both visitors and local communities.

• Clara Burgos – Professional, Sub-Directorate for Sustainability and Environmental Business / Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona

Sustainable Events

The new GSTC MICE Standard was launched earlier this year, which is divided into three sub-sectors: Venues, Event Organizers, and Events & Exhibitions. This session will explore strategies for advancing sustainability within the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector with a focus on sustainable events. Experts will share insights on implementing sustainable practices throughout the event lifecycle, from venue selection and waste management to catering and transportation. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on minimizing the environmental impact of events while enhancing social and economic benefits for local communities. Case studies and best practices will highlight relevant models for hosting sustainable MICE events.

• Jessica Vandy – Senior Consultant – Asia Pacific, Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement)
• Roger Simons – Sustainability Director, Marina Bay Sands

Biodiversity and Landscaping in Hotels

This session will explore how hotels and resorts can contribute to the conservation of biodiversity, particularly focusing on plant life and ecosystems. The discussion will cover sustainable landscaping practices, the use of native plants in hotel gardens, and the role of hospitality in protecting and enhancing local biodiversity. Attendees will learn how integrating green spaces, wildlife-friendly designs, and sustainable gardening techniques can benefit both the environment and the guest experience.

• Raquel Saavedra Dias – Sustainability Director, Six Senses Fiji
• Jenny Leewai Bourke – Executive Director, Nukubati Island Resort

Workshops

Roadmaps for Destination Sustainability workshop (Part 1 & Part 2)

This workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of how destinations can embark on the path to sustainability using the GSTC framework. Participants will explore the essential steps involved, from initial assessments and stakeholder engagement to implementing sustainable practices that drive continuous improvement.

Key elements of the session will include an introduction to the Destination Stewardship Starter Kit, a valuable resource designed to support destination managers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in transitioning towards a stewardship approach. The workshop will also cover practical tools and strategies for managing tourism impacts effectively and fostering collaboration across sectors.
Attendees will leave with actionable insights and a clear roadmap to help their destinations thrive while advancing towards sustainability goals.

Facilitators:

• Dr. Kelly Bricker – Director, Center for Sustainable Tourism, Arizona State University; GSTC Vice-Chair
• Tiffany Chan – Destination Program Manager, GSTC

Storytelling Through Films (by GLP Films)

This interactive session highlights the power of storytelling as a catalyst for change across destinations. Participants will be walked through compelling case studies that demonstrate how visual narratives can address real-world tourism challenges. By focusing on stewardship, inclusion, and authentic local voices, this format empowers all tourism stakeholders – from communities and businesses to governments and NGOs – to play a role in shaping a more sustainable and prosperous future.

Participants will explore destination challenges, strategic responses, and storytelling outcomes; learn how to create meaningful, personalized content that resonates with audiences; be inspired to tell their own destination’s story in a way that drives impact and empowers others.

Facilitator: Rob Holmes – Founder & Chief Strategist, GLP Films

Destination Standard Consultation Workshop

F&B Standard Consultation Workshop