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Sustainability Label South Tyrol

Paving the way for a sustainable future

How can you identify destinations and accommodation businesses that are actively committed to providing solutions for a sustainable future? In South Tyrol the sustainability signage is before everyone's eyes. The Sustainability Label South Tyrol. A certification that, based upon the Global Sustainable Tourism Council(GSTC) criteria, gives recognition to entities in the tourism industry that ensure the protection of nature and human beings. Tourist destinations that have been successful in preserving our traditions , thereby contributing to making South Tyrol a sustainable place with relevant eco practices.

There are three different levels that increase the credibility of the practices effectiveness in accommodation businesses. The third and highest level is "GSTC-recognized" which means sustainable toursim standards have been internationally met.

Sustainability Label for accommodations

Accommodation establishments in South Tyrol are mostly family-run. Most of the times, they are small businesses  with a local living economy. By respecting nature and culture, the local cycles are relentlessly at the core of our everyday living. The South Tyrol Sustainability Seal makes their endeavours visible. There are three levels that showcase which sustainable development goals have been attained by accommodation establishments.

Level 3

The expert

The highest level is "GSTC-recognized" and has gained an international recognition The accommodation establishments with this seal run a sustainable business and encourage a holistic perspective. It meets all nine criteria encompassing ecological, social and cultural factors. Holders of the highest level actively contribute to the safeguarding of the cultural heritage and authentically represent it. They purchase locally and engage local craftsmen and designers. Architecture and landscaping respect biodiversity and bear the South Tyrolean signature. The business ensures that even people with a physical disability  can move without limitations. Guests are encouraged to lead a car-free lifestyle and use more ecological means of transport. The team and stakeholders likewise.

Level 2

The advanced

The accommodation establishments with this label are on the right path to a sustainable future, which takes the team and local producers into account too. In addition to the criteria for Level 1, socio-economic factors start to play a prominent role. The business promotes employment regardless of origin, religion, political views, etc. and equal rights for all employees. The business promotes further training and advancement opportunities. Regional products and nature's cycles have priority. Local initiatives such as associations and non-profit organizations are actively supported. Goods are purchased strategically, ecologically, with a reduced amount of pollutants. Whereas products and suppliers with an eco-certificate are priviledged.

Level 1

The starter

The accommodation establishments showcasing this label are making their way to sustainabilty: strategic considerations, the definition of sustainability principles and a sustainability action plan are the first measures. The tourist establishment makes greater use of renewable energy and measures energy consumption, CO2 emissions and aims to lower them down. It keeps track of food loss and waste, avoids cleaning products with toxic chemicals, uses ecological alternatives and encourages its guests to act likewise.

 

What must the company demonstrate?

Internationally recognised certificates

An accommodation or catering business obtains the Sustainability Label South Tyrol only if its sustainable transition has already been proven by internationally recognized certifications. Some examples include the “EU Ecolabel”, “Turn to Zero”, “Earth Check” or “Gemeinwohl Ökonomie”. Depending on which recognized certifications a company can lay out, one of the three levels of Sustainability Label South Tyrol can be reached. Level 3, the highest level, corresponds to the GSTC certification and is internationally recognized. 

Sustainably visible

Travel to destinations where a sustainable signage is visible and where the world is a more livable place. From equality in the workplace to renewable energy and local cycles - there's everything in accommodations certified with the Sustainability Label South Tyrol.

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All accommodation in South Tyrol

Sustainability Label for destinations

Based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) criteria, South Tyrol has defined indicators that lay the foundations for a sustainability measurement of destinations. Destinations that stand out for their sustainable practices, can put up the Sustainability Label South Tyrol after undergoing a weeks-long audit. There are three stages that showcase which sustainable development goals have been attained by accommodation establishments.

Level 3

The expert

The holiday region owns the highest level and is a worldwide sustainable role model. It meets the high GSTC-Standards and therefore respects ecological, socio-economic and cultural factors all round. By relying on an intelligent tourism management, these standards ensure access to and the protection of cultural sites. The destination has to follow specific guidelines and implement a "tourism carrying capacity" to minimize light and noise pollution. Often, water consumption is at stake and businesses are getting involed in resolving the issue. The destination takes the protection of environmentally sensitive areas very seriously and constantly monitors the environmental impacts of tourism.

Level 2

The advanced

The holiday region is taking the right steps to a sustainable future. In addition to the criteria for Level 1, the accessibility of natural and cultural sites is promoted. Moreover, great attention is given to the intelligent tourism management. The destination is concerned with the maintenance and protection of the intangible cultural heritage, namely local traditions, art, music, language, cuisine, and other elements of local identity. The destination aims to cut down on  carbon footprint and enacts policies and measures to prevent them from increasing. Collaborations, programs and tourism products all stand up for the common good.

Level 1

The starter

The holiday region bearing this Seal is embarking on sustainable standards of living. By starting with a strategic and action plan and involving stakeholders, it implements adaptation actions for climate change and helps better protect animals and species. The destination sets energy saving targets and monitors water quality. Waste prevention, sorting and a green mobility are fostered. Cultural artifacts' handling and transmission are regulated. The destination promotes and supports employement quality and diversity in tourism. Local businesses and fair trade have a major focus.

Can the sustainability of a destination be measured?

Standards, criteria, indicators

South Tyrol’s Sustainability Programme is based on the internationally recognized GSTC standard and aims to make tourism in South Tyrol sustainable and ecological. All the destinations could reach Level 3, namely the highest level that corresponds to the GSTC certification and is, thus, internationally recognized. The process implies that different levels are reached when specific criteria and indicators are respected. The successful completion of each level is evaluated and validated by an audit.

Sustainable holiday regions

In these regions, sustainability is widespread. You will experience it at the drinking water fountains, where you can fill up your reusable bottle, in nature, which will inspire you with its biodiversity, and in the accommodations with committed hosts.

Sustainable localities

One place, many good deeds: these tourist destinations are setting a good example in terms of sustainability. They are raising awareness among locals and guests for sustainable engagement – something that can be felt and experienced in every encounter with the region and its people.

Sustainability Label for the catering industry

The South Tyrolean sustainability label recognises restaurants and inns that are committed to environmental, social and cultural sustainability. While Level 1 marks the entry level and Level 2 the positive development, Level 3 comprises the highest standards and international recognition. Companies reduce energy consumption and waste, promote regional products and environmentally friendly mobility, and contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage.

Level 3

The experts

These catering establishments represent the pinnacle of sustainability, fully integrating ecological, economic and social principles into their business philosophy. From the responsible sourcing of local ingredients to the appreciation of the region’s culinary traditions, everything is designed to respect the environment and the community. Their commitment also extends to resource management, biodiversity conservation and collaboration with local producers and artisans. These restaurateurs set high standards that are internationally recognized and are dedicated to offering an authentic and sustainable experience.

Level 2

The advanced

The hospitality businesses with this label are on the right path towards a sustainable future, actively involving their team as well as local producers. In addition to meeting the Level 1 criteria, they also consider socio-economic factors. They demonstrate that a sustainable philosophy can be integrated into all aspects of their gastronomic activities – from supporting small local cycles to ensuring barrier-free access. Goods are purchased efficiently and ecologically, avoiding pollutants as much as possible and giving preference to products and suppliers with an eco-certificate. 

Level 1

The starter

The hosts of these establishments have consciously chosen a sustainable path. Every decision is carefully evaluated—always considering whether and how it aligns with their set goals for responsible resource consumption, reducing food waste and minimizing waste.

Restaurants and inns for sustainable enjoyment

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Patrick Schwienbacher

The excellence of sustainability

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Patrick Schwienbacher
IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Alex Filz

In the name of sustainability

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