What Is the Certification for Sustainable Tourism Costa Rica?

By Anna Duncan

What Is the Certification for Sustainable Tourism Costa Rica?

If you are someone who loves to travel and explore different cultures, then you must have come across the term ‘sustainable tourism’. It is a concept that has been gaining popularity in recent years as people have become more aware of the impact their travel choices can have on the environment and local communities.

One country that has taken sustainable tourism seriously and implemented it effectively is Costa Rica. In this article, we will explore what the Certification for Sustainable Tourism Costa Rica is and why it is important.

What Is Sustainable Tourism?

Before diving into the specifics of Certification for Sustainable Tourism Costa Rica, let’s first understand what sustainable tourism means. Sustainable tourism is all about making sure that your travel choices have a positive impact on the environment, local community, and economy. It involves making responsible choices such as choosing eco-friendly accommodations, supporting local businesses, and respecting local cultures and traditions.

What Is Certification for Sustainable Tourism Costa Rica?

Certification for Sustainable Tourism Costa Rica (CST) is a program initiated by the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) to promote sustainable tourism practices in the country. The program aims to recognize and reward businesses in the tourism industry that are committed to sustainability. Businesses such as hotels, tour operators, car rental companies, and restaurants can apply for CST certification.

The CST Program Criteria

The CST program has four levels of certification – Level One being the minimum requirement and Level Five being the highest. To receive certification, businesses need to meet specific criteria based on these five pillars:

  • Physical-Biological Parameters
  • Service Management
  • External Clients
  • Socioeconomic Environment
  • Cultural Elements

These criteria are designed to ensure that businesses are operating in a way that is environmentally responsible, socially conscious, and economically sustainable.

How Does the CST Program Benefit Travelers?

The CST program benefits travelers in several ways. Firstly, it allows them to make informed travel choices by identifying businesses that are committed to sustainability.

Secondly, it ensures that the businesses they choose have a positive impact on the environment and local communities. Thirdly, it provides travelers with an authentic and immersive experience of Costa Rican culture as they get to engage with locals and learn about their traditions and way of life.

Conclusion

The Certification for Sustainable Tourism Costa Rica is an excellent initiative by the Costa Rican Tourism Board to promote sustainable tourism practices in the country. By recognizing and rewarding businesses that are committed to sustainability, the program ensures that travelers have a positive impact on the environment and local communities while also providing them with an authentic travel experience. If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, make sure to look out for businesses with CST certification for a sustainable and memorable travel experience.