Wednesday, 13th November

Thursday, 14th November – Conference Day 1

@ Equarius Ballroom(plenary)

Caesar Indra – President, Traveloka

@ Equarius Ballroom (plenary)

This session explores strategic approaches for implementing sustainability measures across global hotel chains. It will examine successful case studies, showcasing different strategies for engaging teams and ensuring cohesive adoption of sustainable practices, ultimately enhancing both environmental impact and operational efficiency.

Moderator: Kingston Khoo – President, Eco-STEPS Malaysia

• Jeffery Smith – Vice President Sustainability, Six Senses
• Siew Kim Beh – Chief Financial & Sustainability Officer / Managing Director Japan and Korea, The Ascott Limited

@ Equarius Foyer

@ Tamarind

(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.

@ Cinnamon

(breakout room)

Focusing on inclusivity, this session discusses ensuring equal opportunities in tourism for individuals with disabilities and diverse needs. Participants will explore strategies for improving physical infrastructure and promoting inclusive attitudes among stakeholders, aiming to create a more accessible and welcoming tourism environment globally.

Moderator: Andrew Leary – Principal, Coraggio Group

• Martin Heng – Accessible & Inclusive Travel Expert; Head of Content, Vacant
• Ku Geok Boon – CEO, SG Enable

@ 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

• Marc Zornes – Founder, Winnow
• Iris Lam – Director of Sustainability, Global Development, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

@ Saffron

(breakout room)

Discuss different approaches to sustainable urban tourism and livability, showcasing strategies that benefit both visitors and locals. How can urban sustainability strategies contribute to enhancing the livability of a city for its residents while also attracting and catering to tourists.

• Huey Hong Ong – Chief Sustainability Officer, Singapore Tourism Board

@ Tamarind

(breakout room)

Challenges and opportunities of integrating urban development with natural ecosystems, highlighting successful coexistence models and strategies for sustainable urban-nature interactions.

• Rohaya Saharom – Deputy Vice President, Sustainable Solutions, Mandai Wildlife Group

@ Cinnamon

(breakout room)

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.

• Kenny Onishi – General Manager Japan, Intrepid Travel
• Sri Mujiyati (Uji) – Director, Viavia Tour & Travel Jogja
• Takeharu Kato – CEO, Yamabushido/Megurun
• Nigel Wong Chun Teim – President, Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA)

@ Turmeric

(breakout room)

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

• Willem Niemeijer – CEO, YAANA Ventures
• Adeline Phua – Managing lyf Partner
• Jeff Yeo – Co-Founder, Big Tiny

@ Saffron

(breakout room)

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. Comment end 

Moderator: Matthias Beyer – CEO, Mascontour; GSTC Board Member

• Penny Spoelder – Senior Associate, TRC Tourism
• Erwin Eperania – Sustainable Tourism Officer, Tahiti Tourisme

Friday, 15th November – Conference Day 2

@ Tamarind

(breakout room)

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

• Adam Piperdy – Founder & Chief Experience Officer, Unearthed Production
• Ian Gan – Chief Sustainability Officer, Singapore EXPO; Vice President Center Management, Constellar

@ Cinnamon

(breakout room)

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

• Elena Pérez – Chief Human Resources and ESG Officer, HBX Group
• Jonathan Kao – Managing Director North Asia, BCD Travel

@ Turmeric

(breakout room)

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

• Mark Wong – Senior Vice President Asia Pacific, Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH)
• Uzair Jaffer – ESG Manager, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

@ Saffron

(breakout room)

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:

• Dr. Kelly Bricker – Director, Center for Sustainable Tourism, Arizona State University; GSTC Vice-Chair
• Tiffany Chan – Destination Program Manager

@ Cumin

(breakout room)

This session will provide an overview and discussion with examples from important sustainable tourism initiatives in Japan.

Moderator: Emi Kaiwa – Manager – Asia Pacific, GSTC

• Chizuko Nishimatsu – Chief Sustainability Officer, JTB Corp.
• Fuyuki Oki – Manager – Sustainability, Rakuten Travel
• Japan Airlines

@ Tamarind

(breakout room)

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

• Eric Ricaurte – Founder & CEO, Greenview
• Saba Kauser – Behavior Change Specialist, BehaviorSMART
• Matt Callaghan – Chief Operating Officer, easyJet holidays
• Roger Simons – Sustainability Director, Marina Bay Sands

@ Cinnamon

(breakout room)

This session explores the proactive measures and initiatives undertaken by the cruise industry and tour operators to foster sustainability in shore excursions. It highlights how industry leaders are implementing innovative practices to reduce environmental impact and enhance cultural sensitivity. Attendees will gain insights into the latest trends, successful partnerships, and effective strategies that are transforming shore excursions into more responsible and eco-friendly experiences.

Moderator: Randy Durband – CEO, GSTC

• Joel Katz – Managing Director, Australasia, Cruise Lines Association Lines/CLIA

@ Turmeric

(breakout room)

This session focuses on pioneering sustainable practices and leadership in tourism destinations. It will explore innovative approaches to sustainability, featuring case studies of successful implementations. Participants will learn about the latest trends, strategies for driving sustainable development, and the role of leadership in fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. The session aims to provide actionable insights for enhancing the sustainability and resilience of tourism destinations.

Moderator: Dr. Ioannis Pappas – Mediterranean Program Director, GSTC

@ Saffron

(breakout room)

Facilitator: Dr. Mihee Kang, GSTC

@ Cumin

(breakout room)

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

• Elif Balcı Fisunoğlu – Vice General Manager, Tourism Operations and Development, Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA)
• Cornelius Tan – President, Chinatown Complex Hawker Association

@ Tamarind

(breakout room)

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

• Bhummikitti Riktaengam – President, Sustainable Tourism Development Foundation (Phuket)
• Ewaldo Reis Amaral – Sr Manager Organization, People Development, ESG, Tiket.com

@ Cinnamon

(breakout room)

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

• Rosa Harris – Director of Tourism, Cayman Islands
• Sunishma Singh – Sustainability Officer, Tourism Fiji
• Cher Chua – Founder, Tengah Island Conservation
• Jayne MacDougall – Executive Director, Phuket Hotels Association

@ Turmeric

(breakout room)

@ Saffron

(breakout room)()

Facilitated by: Guy Bigwood – CEO and Chief Changemaker, GDS Movement

@ Cumin

(breakout room)

Facilitator: Dr. Mihee Kang, GSTC

@ Equarius Ballroom (plenary)

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

• Elif Balcı Fisunoğlu – Vice General Manager, Tourism Operations and Development, Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA)
• Liz Ortiguera – Managing Director of Asia-Pacific and Sr Advisor to the CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)
• Catherine Gilvarry – Head of Supply, Hostelworld

@ Equarius Ballroom(plenary)

Saturday, 16th November: Post-conference tour