The report, based on qualitative research through focus group interviews, highlights the significant benefits of certification, including a marked increase in sustainability awareness among hotel staff and guests, stronger integration of local supply chains, and improved risk management practices. Hotels also reported that GSTC Certification provides a competitive edge, particularly in international sales and marketing efforts. Interviewees pointed out that training sessions, sustainability communication strategies, and the visibility of good practices support a shift in mindset, contributing to more responsible behavior among staff and visitors.
At the same time, the study acknowledges challenges, particularly among luxury hotels facing guest expectations that sometimes conflict with sustainable practices, and small hotels experiencing barriers such as limited access to information and the high costs of consultancy services. Nonetheless, the overall findings underline the transformative role of certification in promoting operational excellence and environmental stewardship.
Key insights
The findings highlight that GSTC Certification is not merely a compliance exercise but a transformative process that encourages continuous improvement across operational, environmental, and social dimensions of hospitality. The certification fosters a culture of sustainability within hotel management and operations and amongst employees. Despite some operational challenges, particularly for luxury accommodations and small businesses, the overall impacts demonstrate a clear shift toward a more resilient and responsible tourism sector in Türkiye.
Download the 2024 Impact Evaluation of GSTC Certification: Insights from the Türkiye Sustainable Tourism Program in English here (also available in Spanish here)
*The term “GSTC Certification” is a shorthand for “Certified by a Certification Body that is GSTC-Accredited.”
