In a world increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability, certifications in tourism and hospitality become essential tools for companies that want to stand out in the market and demonstrate their commitment to responsible practices in an industry that represents almost 10% of national and global GDP. More than a seal of recognition and seriousness, some of these certifications represent a structured path for the implementation of measures that minimize environmental impacts, promote social responsibility, and ensure the quality of life at work.
A universe of certifications for each scenario
The diversity of certifications available in the market offers options for all needs and priorities. Each one has its own criteria, methodologies, and focuses, covering different areas of the tourism chain operation.
By meeting the rigorous criteria of certifications, the sector demonstrates its commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and corporate governance, generating benefits that go beyond reputation and image:
- Cost reduction: Sustainable practices optimize resources such as water and energy, reducing operating costs.
- Increased competitiveness: Differentiation in the market attracts conscious customers and increases loyalty.
- Access to new markets: Certifications open doors to specific niches, such as sustainable luxury tourism.
- Employee engagement: The culture of sustainability motivates and engages the team, increasing productivity.
- Contribution to a better future: Responsible actions minimize environmental impact and build a positive legacy.
To help you navigate this universe, we have separated examples of some options available in the market and names of already certified national developments or destinations:
- Green Key Global – Leads the way in hotel environmental certification, with 5900+ certified hotels in over 70 countries. Recognized worldwide, it evaluates hotels in resource management and rewards sustainable practices. Choosing it usually demonstrates a commitment to ecotourism.
Examples of certified national companies are: Novotel Itu, Ibis Maringá, Pullman and Grand Mercure Vila Olimpia, Ibis Budget Paraiso, Mercure Salvador, Hotel Unique São Paulo, Bendito Cacao Resort & Spa Campos do Jordão, and many other Accor.
- GSTC – Global Sustainability Tourism Council. With associations and partnerships with the UNWTO (World Tourism Organization) and UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme), the GSTC sets global standards for sustainable tourism. Widely recognized, the GSTC believes in and evaluates destinations and companies in environmental, social, and cultural practices. GSTC does not directly certify but accredits bodies that certify hotels, and this accreditation helps to ensure responsible tourism that benefits everyone.
Examples of destinations and accredited national companies: Bonito (MS), Fernando de Noronha, Pousada Literária Paraty (RJ).
- B Corp Certification – Worldwide scope, with more than 9000 companies/members. It certifies good practices in 5 major areas: Governance, Workers, Environment, Customers and Community in businesses belonging to all sectors of the economy. To be certified, the company must have a minimum score of 80 points in the BIA – B Impact Assessment, and the guidance is that it seeks to evolve in practices that transform it into a “better for the world” company at each recertification (every 3 years).
Examples of certified national companies: Raízes DS, Copastur Turismo, Pousada da Amendoeira, Vivalá, Cambará Eco Hotel, Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge, EcoNoronha, Grupo Inspire Turismo.
- ISO 14001 – As an Environmental Management System, the ISO (International Standardization Organization) 14000 series is an international standard that helps companies reduce impacts, comply with laws, and continuously improve their relationship with the environment. Other related variations are the ISO 9000 (quality), ISO 22000 (food safety in hotels and restaurants) and ISO 27000 (data and information security) series.
Examples of certified national companies: Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro, Almenat Embu Das Artes São Paulo, Hilton Garden Inn Santo André, Rebouças, Belo Horizonte (Lourdes) and Praia Brava (Itajaí), Canopy By Hilton São Paulo Jardins, Hilton São Paulo Morumbi, Hampton by Hilton Guarulhos Airport, Hilton Porto Alegre, Hilton Copacabana.
- LEED – Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. Certifies green buildings. Evaluated in categories such as energy and water use, recycled materials, and air quality, it promotes sustainable construction. LEED hotels reduce costs, improve guest health and well-being, and contribute to a greener future.
Examples of certified national companies: Bella Gramado Resort & Exclusive Gramado Hotel & Spa by Gramado Parks, Grand Hyatt Rio de Janeiro, Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro, Hotel Moov Curitiba, Wyndham Gramado Termas Resort & Spa.
- EarthCheck – A global leader in sustainable certification in tourism for more than 25 years, it evaluates hotels, resorts, and tourist destinations. With strict criteria, EarthCheck ensures that certified companies minimize environmental impacts, respect communities, and operate sustainably, attracting eco-conscious travelers.
Example of certified national companies: Iberostar Selection Praia do Forte, Iberostar Bahia Praia do Forte, Grand Palladium Imbassaí Resort & Spa.
Other examples:
- Ecostars: Certifies sustainable hotels. With free digital assessment, it awards green stars based on environmental impact per stay, helping interested guests find hotels committed to eco-friendly practices. E.g. Ubatuba Ecologic Pousada;
- Green Tourism/Green Check: Sustainability Awarded. Evaluates hotels, restaurants, and attractions on energy, water, and green practices, rating them as bronze, silver, or gold. E.g. VOA Hotel Paraíso das Águas Bonito;
- Green Destinations: Green Seal for Destinations. It evaluates environmental, social, and economic management, awarding sustainable sites such as Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum. As a non-profit organization, it has recognized more than 200 destinations in 60 countries. E.g. Pipa, RN (as destination) and Hotel Toca da Coruja, among others located there.
Important Notes
- This list is not exhaustive, and there are other certifications relevant to the sector (e.g.: Travelife, Blue Flag, Vireo SRL, NBR 15401, Rainforest Alliance Seal, etc.);
- The choice of the ideal certification depends on the needs and priorities of each company;
- It is important to consult with a specialized professional for guidance on the certification process.
Remember: certifying your tourism enterprise is a commitment to a more responsible future, with a positive impact on the environment, community, and your business.
