Conference Schedule
Wednesday, 13th November | ||
| Time | Activity | |
| 10:30 – 15:00 | Meeting with Certification Bodies (by invitation only) | |
| 15:00 – 16:45 | GSTC Government & Destination Members Meeting (by invitation only) | |
| 18:15 | Welcome Reception at One15 Marina Sentosa Cove (limited availability) | |
Thursday, 14th November – Conference Day 1 | ||
| Time | Activity | |
| 8:30 – 9:30 | Registration | |
| 9:30 – 10:00 | Opening Ceremony Mr. Alvin Tan Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry & Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth Luigi Cabrini – Chair, GSTC | |
| 10:00 – 10:45 @ Cinnamon(plenary) | GSTC’s Global Mission and Current Activities Randy Durband – CEO, GSTCGSTC Accreditation Dr. Mihee Kang – Global Assurance Director, GSTC | |
| 10:45 – 11:30 @ Equarius Foyer | Refreshment Break and Networking | |
| 11:30 – 11:45 @ Cinnamon(plenary) | Keynote Caesar Indra – President, Traveloka | |
| 11:45 – 12:45 @ Cinnamon(plenary) | Getting Everyone on Board: Strategies for Hotel Chains The session will look into strategies that hotel brands are using in order to promote adherence to sustainable tourism standards and external verification with clear accreditation certification targets. Speakers will provide examples of applicable actions for engaging teams and stakeholders throughout the different and diverse locations where they operate. This includes the pursuit of certification by GSTC-Accredited Certification Bodies. Moderator: Kingston Khoo – President, Eco-STEPS Malaysia [presentation]
| |
| 12:45 – 14:00 @ Equarius Foyer | Lunch and Networking | |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Cinnamon (breakout room) | Driving Profitable Sustainability: Business Opportunities in ASEAN’s Sustainable Tourism Discuss the intersection of sustainability and profitability in the tourism industry, highlighting emerging business opportunities, market trends, and consumer demand for sustainable tourism experiences in ASEAN. It will address how private sector leaders can leverage sustainability as a competitive advantage, innovate new revenue streams, and meet the evolving expectations of environmentally and socially conscious travelers. The discussion will encompass strategies for integrating sustainability into business models, enhancing customer experiences, and capitalizing on the growing market for sustainable tourism products and services in the ASEAN. Moderator: Koko Tang – Founder, Colorful Earth; GSTC Board Member
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Tamarind (breakout room) | Sustainable Visitor Economy and Liveability This session will address issues related to sustainability of the visitor economy in which visitors, locals and tourists interact. Speakers will discuss approaches to sustainable tourism and livability, showcasing strategies that benefit both visitors and locals. Moderator: Linda Mannerby – Sustainability Manager, AcadeMedia
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Turmeric (breakout room) | Innovation in Hotel Sustainability Innovation in hotel sustainability offers hotels new avenues to enhance operations and guest experiences while minimizing environmental impact. This session will showcase how digital solutions promote sustainable practices like energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction. Panelists, including hotel industry leaders, technology innovators, and sustainability specialists, will share insights on cutting-edge approaches and discuss the challenges and opportunities that arise in implementing these transformative solutions. Join us to explore the future of sustainable hospitality and the role of innovation in driving meaningful change. Moderator: Jasline Ng – Sustainability Manager, Greenview
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Saffron (breakout room) | Accessibility in Tourism Accessibility is a central element of any responsible and sustainable development policy, and it is referred to in the GSTC Criteria (GSTC Industry Criteria‘s criterion A7.4; GSTC Destination Criteria‘s criterion B8). Addressing accessibility and inclusivity, tourism businesses and destinations can tap into a significant market segment, expand their customer base, and increase their revenue. Moreover, it contributes to building a more diverse and tolerant society, where everyone has the freedom to explore and participate in travel experiences without limitations. Panelists will share insights and discuss best practices in promoting accessibility in tourism and offer strategies for advancing these objectives. Moderator: Andrew Leary – Principal, Coraggio Group
| |
| 15:15 – 16:00 @ Equarius Foyer | Refreshment Break and Networking | |
| 16:00 – 17:15 @ Cinnamon (breakout room) | Management and Coexistence of Urban and Nature Systems Challenges and opportunities of integrating urban development with natural ecosystems, highlighting successful coexistence models and strategies for sustainable urban-nature interactions. Moderator: CB Ramkumar – Vice Chair, GSTC
| |
| 16:00 – 17:15 @ Tamarind (breakout room) | Tour Operators and Local Culture The session will explore the role of TOs in promoting and preserving local cultures – highlighting best practices, strategies and challenges for fostering cultural sustainability through tourism. For example, by actively engaging and empowering local communities in the tours (which can take different shapes); or by developing partnerships with local organisations to ensure the tourism business makes a positive impact on the local communities, etc. Moderator: Randy Durband – CEO, GSTC
| |
| 16:00 – 17:15 @ Turmeric (breakout room) | Alternative Accommodations Sustainable accommodations must come in all forms, from mainstream to creative, innovative, and the unconventional. This session will explore unique and sustainable lodging options beyond traditional hotels. Experts will share insights into glamping, homestays, aparthotels and their role in promoting sustainable tourism. Attendees will gain knowledge on minimizing environmental impact, supporting local communities, and preserving cultural heritage through these accommodations. Challenges, opportunities, regulatory frameworks, marketing strategies, and quality standards will also be discussed, empowering attendees to embrace innovative solutions catering to conscious travelers. Moderator: Koko Tang – Founder, Colorful Earth; GSTC Board Member [presentation]
| |
| 16:00 – 17:15 @ Saffron (breakout room) | Destination Roadmaps and Sustainability Plans Establishing a roadmap with clearly defined goals and priorities, is crucial for destinations that aim to improve their sustainability. This session will feature insights from experts representing various destinations and organizations. Attendees will learn about long-term sustainable tourism plans from Sentosa and Singapore, a sustainability improvement project in the Turkish village of Birgi, and Tahiti’s tourism development strategy, Fari’ira’a Manihini 2027. A policy framework for sustainable tourism in the Pacific region will also be shared. Through these presentations and moderated discussion, the session will explore pathways for sustainable tourism development and management of destinations. Moderator: Matthias Beyer – CEO, Mascontour; GSTC Board Member [presentation]
| |
| 17:15 – 17:30 | End of Conference Day 1 | |
Friday, 15th November – Conference Day 2 | ||
| Time | Activity | |
| 9:00 – 9:30 | Registration | |
| 9:30 – 10:45 @ Cinnamon (breakout room) | Measurement & Evaluation Measurement and evaluation is a crucial part of sustainability in tourism and is often mentioned in the suggested performance indicators of the GSTC Criteria. Join industry leaders and experts as we navigate the complex landscape of sustainability measurement and evaluation, learning from a comprehensive discussion that includes stats, trends, and useful examples. This session will provide insights into effective evaluation techniques that drive continual improvement in sustainability practices, ensuring a responsible and measurable approach to tourism. Moderator: Jason Lin – Co-founder & CEO, Hotelzero
| |
| 9:30 – 10:45 @ Tamarind (breakout room) | Sustainable Events The new GSTC MICE Criteria was launched earlier this year, which is divided into three sub-sectors: Venues, Event Organizers, and Events & Exhibitions. This session will explore strategies for advancing sustainability within the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector with a focus on sustainable events. Experts will share insights on implementing sustainable practices throughout the event lifecycle, from venue selection and waste management to catering and transportation. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on minimizing the environmental impact of events while enhancing social and economic benefits for local communities. Case studies and best practices will highlight relevant models for hosting sustainable MICE events. Moderator: Edward Koh – Executive Director, Conventions, Meetings & Incentive Travel, Singapore Tourism Board
| |
| 9:30 – 10:45 @ Turmeric (breakout room) | Sustainable Tourism in Japan This session will explore the approaches and initiatives that are shaping sustainable tourism in Japan. This session will provide an overview and discussion with examples from important sustainable tourism initiatives in Japan, highlighting how the country is integrating sustainability into its travel and tourism sectors. Attendees will gain valuable insights into current strategies that can be applied globally. Moderator: Emi Kaiwa – Manager – Asia Pacific, GSTC
| |
| 9:30 – 10:45 @ Saffron (breakout room) | Roadmaps for Destination Sustainability Workshop [presentation] This workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of how destinations can embark on the path to sustainability using the GSTC framework. Participants will explore the essential steps involved, from initial assessments and stakeholder engagement to implementing sustainable practices that drive continuous improvement. Key elements of the session will include an introduction to the Destination Stewardship Starter Kit, a valuable resource designed to support destination managers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in transitioning towards a stewardship approach. The workshop will also cover practical tools and strategies for managing tourism impacts effectively and fostering collaboration across sectors. Attendees will leave with actionable insights and a clear roadmap to help their destinations thrive while advancing towards sustainability goals. Facilitators:
| |
| 9:30 – 10:45 @ Cumin (breakout room) | Food Heritage in Tourism Exploring food tourism, with a backdrop of Singapore’s rich food heritage and its UNESCO recognition, understanding how culinary traditions contribute to cultural sustainability, tourism experiences, and community identity. Moderator: CB Ramkumar – Vice Chair, GSTC
| |
| 10:45 – 11:30 @ Equarius Foyer | Refreshment Break and Networking | |
| 11:30 – 12:45 @ Cinnamon (breakout room) | The Role of Distributors in Advancing Sustainability Despite not owning the products or services, distributors, including online travel agencies (OTAs), have a significant responsibility to influence and impact sustainability in the tourism industry. This session will examine how distributors leverage the GSTC framework to promote sustainable practices. Attendees will learn how distributors can highlight verified sustainable options, influence their supply chains by requirements, goals, and phase in preferential contracting of certified businesses, as well as supporting education and skills development. Key examples from GSTC Members will illustrate effective strategies for integrating sustainability into distribution channels, ultimately driving positive change in the industry. Moderator: Roi Ariel – General Manager, GSTC
| |
| 11:30 – 12:45 @ Tamarind (breakout room) | Sustainability in Attractions Attractions are a critical component of the tourism industry, with millions of visitors visiting popular destinations worldwide, and therefore play an important role in shaping experiences. Attractions have the power to promote sustainable practices, preserve cultural heritage, and protect natural resources. Sustainable management practices in attractions can minimize these impacts while providing a quality visitor experience. In addition, attractions can act as ambassadors for sustainability and inspire visitors to engage in sustainable behaviors. Sustainable management in attractions includes a range of strategies, from efficient resource management to promoting local cultures and heritage. Through discussion and case studies, the panel will explore best practices, challenges, and opportunities for creating sustainable attractions that benefit both visitors and local communities. Moderator: Dr. Ioannis Pappas – Mediterranean Program Director, GSTC
| |
| 11:30 – 12:45 @ Turmeric (breakout room) | Sustainability Innovation and Leadership in Destinations The session will explore innovative strategies and leadership approaches to drive sustainability in destination management. It will cover topics such as sustainable tourism development and the role of strategic leadership in fostering innovation, all from the perspectives of different stakeholders. The discussion will highlight the importance of collaboration across sectors to implement sustainable practices and position destinations as leaders in the shift toward more responsible tourism. Moderator: Tiffany Chan, GSTC Destinations Program Manager
| |
| 11:30 – 12:45 @ Saffron (breakout room) | F&B Criteria Workshop Facilitator: So Young Lee – Project Manager, GSTC [presentation] | |
| 11:30 – 12:45 @ Cumin (breakout room) | Destination Storytelling Workshop (by GDS Movement) The Head, Heart, and Hands of Your Sustainability Story Facilitated by: Guy Bigwood – CEO and Chief Changemaker, GDS Movement [presentation] | |
| 12:45 – 14:00 @ Equarius Foyer | Lunch and Networking | |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Cinnamon (breakout room) | Leveraging Tourism for Community Development This session explores how tourism can be leveraged to achieve socially positive outcomes, emphasizing contributions to social development and cultural preservation. Discussions will highlight strategies for ensuring tourism benefits local societies sustainably and meaningfully, fostering community well-being and preserving cultural heritage. Moderator: Peter Richards – Responsible Tourism Specialist
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Tamarind (breakout room) | Coastal Destination Management This session will discuss sustainable practices for coastal destinations relevant to public, private, and non-governmental sectors. This session will cover essential topics, including conservation efforts, community engagement, and strategies to balance tourism development with environmental protection. Participants will explore risk management approaches to mitigate tourism’s impact on coastal ecosystems while addressing the importance of fostering collaboration among stakeholders to enhance sustainability and resilience in coastal tourism. Moderator: Dr. Kelly Bricker – Associate Dean and Director of the Hainan University-Arizona State University International College; GSTC Vice-Chair
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Turmeric (breakout room) | Sustainable Luxury Resorts Luxury hotels and resorts cater to increasingly sophisticated consumers that demand only the most exclusive, authentic and environmental-friendly experiences. Many hotels have implemented a green policy, by using sustainable construction materials, recycling waste materials, conserving water, or preserving fragile ecosystems. Sustainability doesn’t mean compromising on luxury: several of the world’s most luxurious hotel brands see sustainability as a core of their offering. In this session we will hear from offering luxury hospitality with embedded sustainability. Resorts cater to increasingly sophisticated consumers that demand only the most exclusive, authentic and environmental-friendly experiences. Many hotels have implemented a green policy, by using sustainable construction materials, recycling waste materials, conserving water, or preserving fragile ecosystems. Sustainability doesn’t mean compromising on quality: several of the world’s most known hotel brands see sustainability as a core of their offering. In this session we will discuss the aspect of sustainability in resorts. Moderator: Andrew Jones – Guardian, Sanctuary Resorts
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Saffron (breakout room)() | Industry Criteria Consultation Workshop Facilitator: Dr. Mihee Kang, Global Assurance Director, GSTC [presentation] | |
| 15:15 – 16:00 | Refreshment Break and Networking | |
| 16:00 – 17:00 @ Cinnamon(plenary) | Pathways to Sustainability GSTC continues to support programs and initiatives that use stages from zero to the final stage. This includes national programs with stages of compliance such as the 3-stage Türkiye Sustainable Tourism Program (which is the first mandatory national program for accommodations based on the GSTC Criteria and GSTC Assurance program), company-led programs such as Hostelworld’s Staircase to Sustainability, and association-led programs such as the 3-stage WTTC Hotel Sustainability Basics. Having hotels continue on their sustainability path in a comprehensive, step-by-step, and achievable manner is crucial to a more sustainable sector. Moderator: Luigi Cabrini – Chairman, GSTC
| |
| 17:00 – 17:15 @ Cinnamon(plenary) | Closing Session | |
| 17:30 – 18:30 | Sensoryscape Tour to Village Hotel or Shuttle Bus to Village Hotel (18:15) | |
| 18:30 – 22:00 | Farewell dinner at Village Hotel Sentosa (limited availability) | |
Saturday, 16th November: Post-conference tour | ||
| Varying times | Post-Conference Guided Tour | |
Wednesday, 13th November | ||
| Time | Activity | |
| 10:30 – 15:00 | Meeting with Certification Bodies (by invitation only) | |
| 15:00 – 16:45 | GSTC Government & Destination Members Meeting (by invitation only) | |
| 18:15 | Welcome Reception at One15 Marina Sentosa Cove (limited availability) | |
Thursday, 14th November – Conference Day 1 | ||
| Time | Activity | |
| 8:30 – 9:30 | Registration | |
| 9:30 – 10:00 | Opening Ceremony | |
| 10:00 – 10:45 @ Cinnamon(plenary) | GSTC’s Global Mission and Current Activities Randy Durband – CEO, GSTCGSTC Accreditation Dr. Mihee Kang – Global Assurance Director, GSTC | |
| 10:45 – 11:30 @ Equarius Foyer | Refreshment Break and Networking | |
| 11:30 – 11:45 @ Cinnamon(plenary) | Keynote Caesar Indra – President, Traveloka | |
| 11:45 – 12:45 @ Cinnamon(plenary) | Getting Everyone on Board: Strategies for Hotel Chains The session will look into strategies that hotel brands are using in order to promote adherence to sustainable tourism standards and external verification with clear accreditation certification targets. Speakers will provide examples of applicable actions for engaging teams and stakeholders throughout the different and diverse locations where they operate. This includes the pursuit of certification by GSTC-Accredited Certification Bodies. Moderator: Kingston Khoo – President, Eco-STEPS Malaysia
| |
| 12:45 – 14:00 @ Equarius Foyer | Lunch and Networking | |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Cinnamon (breakout room) | Driving Profitable Sustainability: Business Opportunities in ASEAN’s Sustainable Tourism Discuss the intersection of sustainability and profitability in the tourism industry, highlighting emerging business opportunities, market trends, and consumer demand for sustainable tourism experiences in ASEAN. It will address how private sector leaders can leverage sustainability as a competitive advantage, innovate new revenue streams, and meet the evolving expectations of environmentally and socially conscious travelers. The discussion will encompass strategies for integrating sustainability into business models, enhancing customer experiences, and capitalizing on the growing market for sustainable tourism products and services in the ASEAN. Moderator: Koko Tang – Founder, Colorful Earth; GSTC Board Member
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Tamarind (breakout room) | Sustainable Visitor Economy and Liveability This session will address issues related to sustainability of the visitor economy in which visitors, locals and tourists interact. Speakers will discuss approaches to sustainable tourism and livability, showcasing strategies that benefit both visitors and locals. Moderator: Linda Mannerby – Sustainability Manager, AcadeMedia
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Turmeric (breakout room) | Innovation in Hotel Sustainability Innovation in hotel sustainability offers hotels new avenues to enhance operations and guest experiences while minimizing environmental impact. This session will showcase how digital solutions promote sustainable practices like energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction. Panelists, including hotel industry leaders, technology innovators, and sustainability specialists, will share insights on cutting-edge approaches and discuss the challenges and opportunities that arise in implementing these transformative solutions. Join us to explore the future of sustainable hospitality and the role of innovation in driving meaningful change. Moderator: Jasline Ng – Sustainability Manager, Greenview
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Saffron (breakout room) | Accessibility in Tourism Accessibility is a central element of any responsible and sustainable development policy, and it is referred to in the GSTC Criteria (GSTC Industry Criteria‘s criterion A7.4; GSTC Destination Criteria‘s criterion B8). Addressing accessibility and inclusivity, tourism businesses and destinations can tap into a significant market segment, expand their customer base, and increase their revenue. Moreover, it contributes to building a more diverse and tolerant society, where everyone has the freedom to explore and participate in travel experiences without limitations. Panelists will share insights and discuss best practices in promoting accessibility in tourism and offer strategies for advancing these objectives. Moderator: Andrew Leary – Principal, Coraggio Group
| |
| 15:15 – 16:00 @ Equarius Foyer | Refreshment Break and Networking | |
| 16:00 – 17:15 @ Cinnamon (breakout room) | Management and Coexistence of Urban and Nature Systems Challenges and opportunities of integrating urban development with natural ecosystems, highlighting successful coexistence models and strategies for sustainable urban-nature interactions. Moderator: CB Ramkumar – Vice Chair, GSTC
| |
| 16:00 – 17:15 @ Tamarind (breakout room) | Tour Operators and Local Culture The session will explore the role of TOs in promoting and preserving local cultures – highlighting best practices, strategies and challenges for fostering cultural sustainability through tourism. For example, by actively engaging and empowering local communities in the tours (which can take different shapes); or by developing partnerships with local organisations to ensure the tourism business makes a positive impact on the local communities, etc. Moderator: Randy Durband – CEO, GSTC
| |
| 16:00 – 17:15 @ Turmeric (breakout room) | Alternative Accommodations Sustainable accommodations must come in all forms, from mainstream to creative, innovative, and the unconventional. This session will explore unique and sustainable lodging options beyond traditional hotels. Experts will share insights into glamping, homestays, aparthotels and their role in promoting sustainable tourism. Attendees will gain knowledge on minimizing environmental impact, supporting local communities, and preserving cultural heritage through these accommodations. Challenges, opportunities, regulatory frameworks, marketing strategies, and quality standards will also be discussed, empowering attendees to embrace innovative solutions catering to conscious travelers. Moderator: Koko Tang – Founder, Colorful Earth; GSTC Board Member
| |
| 16:00 – 17:15 @ Saffron (breakout room) | Destination Roadmaps and Sustainability Plans Establishing a roadmap with clearly defined goals and priorities, is crucial for destinations that aim to improve their sustainability. This session will feature insights from experts representing various destinations and organizations. Attendees will learn about long-term sustainable tourism plans from Sentosa and Singapore, a sustainability improvement project in the Turkish village of Birgi, and Tahiti’s tourism development strategy, Fari’ira’a Manihini 2027. A policy framework for sustainable tourism in the Pacific region will also be shared. Through these presentations and moderated discussion, the session will explore pathways for sustainable tourism development and management of destinations. Moderator: Matthias Beyer – CEO, Mascontour; GSTC Board Member
| |
| 17:15 – 17:30 | End of Conference Day 1 | |
Friday, 15th November – Conference Day 2 | ||
| Time | Activity | |
| 9:00 – 9:30 | Registration | |
| 9:30 – 10:45 @ Cinnamon (breakout room) | Measurement & Evaluation Measurement and evaluation is a crucial part of sustainability in tourism and is often mentioned in the suggested performance indicators of the GSTC Criteria. Join industry leaders and experts as we navigate the complex landscape of sustainability measurement and evaluation, learning from a comprehensive discussion that includes stats, trends, and useful examples. This session will provide insights into effective evaluation techniques that drive continual improvement in sustainability practices, ensuring a responsible and measurable approach to tourism. Moderator: Jason Lin – Co-founder & CEO, Hotelzero
| |
| 9:30 – 10:45 @ Tamarind (breakout room) | Sustainable Events The new GSTC MICE Criteria was launched earlier this year, which is divided into three sub-sectors: Venues, Event Organizers, and Events & Exhibitions. This session will explore strategies for advancing sustainability within the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector with a focus on sustainable events. Experts will share insights on implementing sustainable practices throughout the event lifecycle, from venue selection and waste management to catering and transportation. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on minimizing the environmental impact of events while enhancing social and economic benefits for local communities. Case studies and best practices will highlight relevant models for hosting sustainable MICE events. Moderator: Edward Koh – Executive Director, Conventions, Meetings & Incentive Travel, Singapore Tourism Board
| |
| 9:30 – 10:45 @ Turmeric (breakout room) | Sustainable Tourism in Japan This session will explore the approaches and initiatives that are shaping sustainable tourism in Japan. This session will provide an overview and discussion with examples from important sustainable tourism initiatives in Japan, highlighting how the country is integrating sustainability into its travel and tourism sectors. Attendees will gain valuable insights into current strategies that can be applied globally. Moderator: Emi Kaiwa – Manager – Asia Pacific, GSTC
| |
| 9:30 – 10:45 @ Saffron (breakout room) | Roadmaps for Destination Sustainability Workshop This workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of how destinations can embark on the path to sustainability using the GSTC framework. Participants will explore the essential steps involved, from initial assessments and stakeholder engagement to implementing sustainable practices that drive continuous improvement. Key elements of the session will include an introduction to the Destination Stewardship Starter Kit, a valuable resource designed to support destination managers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in transitioning towards a stewardship approach. The workshop will also cover practical tools and strategies for managing tourism impacts effectively and fostering collaboration across sectors. Attendees will leave with actionable insights and a clear roadmap to help their destinations thrive while advancing towards sustainability goals. Facilitators:
| |
| 9:30 – 10:45 @ Cumin (breakout room) | Food Heritage in Tourism Exploring food tourism, with a backdrop of Singapore’s rich food heritage and its UNESCO recognition, understanding how culinary traditions contribute to cultural sustainability, tourism experiences, and community identity. Moderator: CB Ramkumar – Vice Chair, GSTC
| |
| 10:45 – 11:30 @ Equarius Foyer | Refreshment Break and Networking | |
| 11:30 – 12:45 @ Cinnamon (breakout room) | The Role of Distributors in Advancing Sustainability Despite not owning the products or services, distributors, including online travel agencies (OTAs), have a significant responsibility to influence and impact sustainability in the tourism industry. This session will examine how distributors leverage the GSTC framework to promote sustainable practices. Attendees will learn how distributors can highlight verified sustainable options, influence their supply chains by requirements, goals, and phase in preferential contracting of certified businesses, as well as supporting education and skills development. Key examples from GSTC Members will illustrate effective strategies for integrating sustainability into distribution channels, ultimately driving positive change in the industry. Moderator: Roi Ariel – General Manager, GSTC
| |
| 11:30 – 12:45 @ Tamarind (breakout room) | Sustainability in Attractions Attractions are a critical component of the tourism industry, with millions of visitors visiting popular destinations worldwide, and therefore play an important role in shaping experiences. Attractions have the power to promote sustainable practices, preserve cultural heritage, and protect natural resources. Sustainable management practices in attractions can minimize these impacts while providing a quality visitor experience. In addition, attractions can act as ambassadors for sustainability and inspire visitors to engage in sustainable behaviors. Sustainable management in attractions includes a range of strategies, from efficient resource management to promoting local cultures and heritage. Through discussion and case studies, the panel will explore best practices, challenges, and opportunities for creating sustainable attractions that benefit both visitors and local communities. Moderator: Dr. Ioannis Pappas – Mediterranean Program Director, GSTC
| |
| 11:30 – 12:45 @ Turmeric (breakout room) | Sustainability Innovation and Leadership in Destinations The session will explore innovative strategies and leadership approaches to drive sustainability in destination management. It will cover topics such as sustainable tourism development and the role of strategic leadership in fostering innovation, all from the perspectives of different stakeholders. The discussion will highlight the importance of collaboration across sectors to implement sustainable practices and position destinations as leaders in the shift toward more responsible tourism. Moderator: Tiffany Chan, GSTC Destinations Program Manager
| |
| 11:30 – 12:45 @ Saffron (breakout room) | F&B Criteria Workshop Facilitator: So Young Lee – Project Manager, GSTC | |
| 11:30 – 12:45 @ Cumin (breakout room) | Destination Storytelling Workshop (by GDS Movement) The Head, Heart, and Hands of Your Sustainability Story Facilitated by: Guy Bigwood – CEO and Chief Changemaker, GDS Movement | |
| 12:45 – 14:00 @ Equarius Foyer | Lunch and Networking | |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Cinnamon (breakout room) | Leveraging Tourism for Community Development This session explores how tourism can be leveraged to achieve socially positive outcomes, emphasizing contributions to social development and cultural preservation. Discussions will highlight strategies for ensuring tourism benefits local societies sustainably and meaningfully, fostering community well-being and preserving cultural heritage. Moderator: Peter Richards – Responsible Tourism Specialist
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Tamarind (breakout room) | Coastal Destination Management This session will discuss sustainable practices for coastal destinations relevant to public, private, and non-governmental sectors. This session will cover essential topics, including conservation efforts, community engagement, and strategies to balance tourism development with environmental protection. Participants will explore risk management approaches to mitigate tourism’s impact on coastal ecosystems while addressing the importance of fostering collaboration among stakeholders to enhance sustainability and resilience in coastal tourism. Moderator: Dr. Kelly Bricker – Associate Dean and Director of the Hainan University-Arizona State University International College; GSTC Vice-Chair
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Turmeric (breakout room) | Sustainable Luxury Resorts Luxury hotels and resorts cater to increasingly sophisticated consumers that demand only the most exclusive, authentic and environmental-friendly experiences. Many hotels have implemented a green policy, by using sustainable construction materials, recycling waste materials, conserving water, or preserving fragile ecosystems. Sustainability doesn’t mean compromising on luxury: several of the world’s most luxurious hotel brands see sustainability as a core of their offering. In this session we will hear from offering luxury hospitality with embedded sustainability. Resorts cater to increasingly sophisticated consumers that demand only the most exclusive, authentic and environmental-friendly experiences. Many hotels have implemented a green policy, by using sustainable construction materials, recycling waste materials, conserving water, or preserving fragile ecosystems. Sustainability doesn’t mean compromising on quality: several of the world’s most known hotel brands see sustainability as a core of their offering. In this session we will discuss the aspect of sustainability in resorts. Moderator: Andrew Jones – Guardian, Sanctuary Resorts
| |
| 14:00 – 15:15 @ Saffron (breakout room)() | Industry Criteria Consultation Workshop Facilitator: Dr. Mihee Kang, Global Assurance Director, GSTC | |
| 15:15 – 16:00 | Refreshment Break and Networking | |
| 16:00 – 17:00 @ Cinnamon(plenary) | Pathways to Sustainability GSTC continues to support programs and initiatives that use stages from zero to the final stage. This includes national programs with stages of compliance such as the 3-stage Türkiye Sustainable Tourism Program (which is the first mandatory national program for accommodations based on the GSTC Criteria and GSTC Assurance program), company-led programs such as Hostelworld’s Staircase to Sustainability, and association-led programs such as the 3-stage WTTC Hotel Sustainability Basics. Having hotels continue on their sustainability path in a comprehensive, step-by-step, and achievable manner is crucial to a more sustainable sector. Moderator: Luigi Cabrini – Chairman, GSTC
| |
| 17:00 – 17:15 @ Cinnamon(plenary) | Closing Session | |
| 18:30 – 22:00 | Farewell dinner at Village Hotel Sentosa (limited availability) | |
Saturday, 16th November: Post-conference tour | ||
| Varying times | ||
Supported by
Main Conference Sponsors
Official Venue Partner
–
Event Partner
Welcome Dinner Sponsor
Farewell Dinner Sponsor
Carbon Footprint Calculation & Offset
Media Partners
