The world of travel is transforming, and sustainability is no longer optional—it’s the key to tourism’s future. A visionary advocate, President and CEO of Society for Sustainable Tourism in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, and a regional partner of Green Destinations, Ms. Susan Santos de Cárdenas is at the forefront of this movement, championing responsible and impactful tourism practices.
Building Resilient Tourism Ecosystems
As an advisor to the East Asia Inter-Regional Tourism Federation (EATOF) and a founding board member of the Asian Ecotourism Network, this leader leverages extensive expertise across 10 countries from South Korea to Indonesia, as well as her professional background in Peru and having lived in Japan. Through partnerships with over 75 organizations and representatives, they are driving initiatives that fortify tourism against climate and economic challenges, ensuring long-term resilience and sustainability.
The Green Destinations Framework: From Principles to Practices
At the core of this mission are the Green Destinations programs, built on six basic themes, aligned with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and UN Sustainable Development Goals. It champions Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, emphasizing that true sustainability starts from the grassroots—engaging governments, businesses, and local communities – education, education, education, to create lasting impact.
Through a structured approach—Training, Recognition, Certification, and Promotion —the program helps destinations and businesses transition to responsible tourism models. and the Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance, this framework provides clear, strategic pathways for businesses to thrive while protecting the planet.
Beyond Compliance: The Power of Good Practice Stories
Sustainability is not just about meeting regulations; it’s about creating measurable impact. The Green Destinations Top 100 Stories Program highlights real-world success stories—like coastal communities that safeguarded mangrove forests and, in turn, were shielded from devastating super typhoons. These stories demonstrate how sustainability is not just good ethics but also smart economics and resilience in action.
Sustainability is Profitable: Take Action Now
More destinations and tourism establishments are embracing Green Destinations standards, realizing that sustainability fuels long-term profitability. For local governments, it secures regenerative growth. For businesses, with the Good Travel Seal program powered by Green Destinations, it means cost savings and competitive advantage—cutting energy and water consumption, reducing waste, and eliminating single-use plastics. Adopting zero-waste practices isn’t just environmentally responsible—it’s financially smart.
A Future Where Tourism and Planet Earth Thrive Together
The mission is clear: tourism must protect and enhance the places we cherish. By fostering responsible tourism, this Sustainable Tourism advocate and Green Destinations are paving the way for a future where communities, businesses, and travelers coexist harmoniously with our only spaceship—Planet Earth.
Lead the Future of Tourism
Local government units and the private sector tourism industry must take the lead in driving quality, triple bottom line tourism—balancing people, planet, and prosperity. Sustainability is the future of tourism, inspiring responsible and regenerative tourism.
For more information about the Society for Sustainable Tourism Learning and Leadership programs with guidance and coaching, contact SST through their Facebook Page or send a DM to their LinkedIn Page or Instagram.
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