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Exciting changes are on the horizon for Central Asia’s tourism industry! On August 21, 2024, the region will introduce a new Eco-certification standard that promises to make traveling in Central Asia greener and more sustainable.

As travelers increasingly seek Eco-friendly vacation options, the new standard aims to help hotels and accommodations in Central Asia meet this growing demand. According to a recent survey by Booking.com, 81% of travelers now consider ecotourism a key factor in their travel choices, with 70% preferring to stay in hotels with environmental certifications.

The upcoming workshop will reveal this new certification standard, which has been developed using global benchmarks such as those from the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Council and well-known Eco-labels like the European Flower and Leaf of Life. This standard is designed not only to ensure that hotels in Central Asia are committed to sustainability but also to provide clear guidelines for improving their environmental practices.

During the event, hotel owners and industry stakeholders will get their first look at the draft standard and receive a handy checklist to evaluate how well their facilities meet these new requirements. Hotels that complete the checklist will be eligible for certification, and some will even undergo a detailed audit with expert advice on how to enhance their sustainability practices.

This initiative is part of the Global Opportunities for Sustainable Development Goals in Europe and Central Asia (GO4SDGs) Programme, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in partnership with the Public Association "ESG Central Asia." The project also involves collaboration with key regional organizations, including Kazakhstan’s International Academy of Ecology, Tajikistan’s PA "Peshsaf," and Uzbekistan’s State Center for Ecological Certification and Standardization "Davekosertifikat" LLC.

The workshop will bring together government officials, hotel representatives, and sustainability experts from around the world. It’s an exciting opportunity for Central Asia to step up its commitment to a greener future and to meet the increasing expectations of Eco-conscious travelers.

Image Source: UNEP