Quality & Standards

Sustainability Matters 

Preservation of tourism resources, environmental conservation, positive economic impact, fair trade principles, and cultural heritage preservation are all essential to ensuring that the planet and its people remain healthy and are celebrated respectfully.

Travelers are increasingly favoring environmentally responsible tourism providers. According to the Travel Industry Association of America, within the United States alone, 43 million people are self-proclaimed "eco-tourists" who are willing to pay 8.5 percent more to environmentally sensitive travel suppliers. A survey of U.S. travelers found 87 percent would be more likely to stay at "green" properties. Tourism businesses that can demonstrate a concern for the environment through responsible business practices are able to earn respect and customer loyalty while enhancing a firm's competitiveness. In addition to gaining increased market share, tourism businesses that invest in energy efficiency technology will reduce energy consumption and utility costs directly impacting bottom line revenues for measurable return on investment.

Throughout the world we are witnessing the emergence of sustainable tourism certification programs designed to provide a seal of approval for tourism companies that adapt sustainable business models into their daily operations. These certification programs provide tourism companies a unique marketing tool to demonstrate a commitment to sustainable tourism.

Solimar has been on the forefront of sustainable tourism development since the company began and continues to find new, innovative ways to incorporate sustainability into each project.  From working on a local level with hotels and tour operators to working at an international level to develop the first set of Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria, Solimar understands that sustainability is the key to unlocking successful, durable, high-quality products and initiatives.

As sustainability continues to grow as a driver for tourism demand, Solimar’s solid product development strategies coupled with comprehensive marketing strategies successfully build “green” products and link them with the responsible travelers who seek them.  Solimar's consulting team can also assist businesses and destinations implement the sustainable business practices necessary to obtain certification.