Costa Rica's Certification for Sustainable Tourism

Definition

Costa Rica's Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) is a program designed to promote and recognize sustainable practices in the tourism sector, ensuring that businesses minimize their environmental impact while contributing positively to local communities. The certification establishes a framework for evaluating tourism companies based on their sustainability efforts, helping travelers make informed choices and encouraging the industry to adopt eco-friendly practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The CST program was launched in 1997 by the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) as a way to encourage sustainable tourism practices across the country.
2. Businesses seeking certification are evaluated on their efforts in areas such as energy use, water conservation, waste management, and community engagement.
3. The CST system has different levels of certification, ranging from one to five leaves, indicating the degree of sustainability achieved by a business.
4. Over 400 tourism businesses in Costa Rica have received CST certification, reflecting the country's commitment to sustainable tourism development.
5. The certification helps enhance Costa Rica's reputation as a leading eco-destination, attracting environmentally conscious travelers from around the world.

Review Questions

• How does Costa Rica's Certification for Sustainable Tourism evaluate companies in the tourism sector?
  • Costa Rica's Certification for Sustainable Tourism evaluates companies based on several sustainability criteria, including their energy consumption, water usage, waste management practices, and community involvement. This thorough assessment helps identify areas where companies can improve their environmental performance and encourages them to adopt more sustainable practices. By focusing on these key aspects, the CST not only supports businesses in becoming more eco-friendly but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the tourism industry in Costa Rica.
• Discuss the role of Costa Rica's Certification for Sustainable Tourism in promoting ecotourism within the country.
  • Costa Rica's Certification for Sustainable Tourism plays a significant role in promoting ecotourism by setting standards for sustainability that businesses must meet to gain certification. This encourages operators to adopt practices that protect natural resources and benefit local communities, aligning with the principles of ecotourism. As a result, certified businesses attract travelers who prioritize responsible travel experiences, thus enhancing the visibility of Costa Rica as an ecotourism destination and supporting the preservation of its unique ecosystems.
• Evaluate the impact of Costa Rica's Certification for Sustainable Tourism on global perceptions of sustainable tourism practices.
  • Costa Rica's Certification for Sustainable Tourism has significantly impacted global perceptions of sustainable tourism by establishing a successful model that other countries can emulate. The program showcases how effective regulations and certifications can lead to meaningful change within the tourism industry, encouraging businesses worldwide to adopt similar sustainability measures. By highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship and community involvement, Costa Rica sets an example that inspires global travelers to seek out eco-friendly options and supports the broader movement towards responsible tourism practices.

Related terms

Ecotourism: A form of responsible travel that focuses on experiencing natural areas while conserving the environment and improving the well-being of local communities.

Sustainable Development: A holistic approach to development that seeks to balance economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity to meet the needs of present and future generations.

Green Certifications: Standards or labels awarded to businesses that meet specific environmental criteria, promoting sustainable practices and consumer awareness.