The Ascott Limited, a global hospitality company based in Singapore, has reached a significant milestone by achieving Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification for 50% of its eligible properties.
This accomplishment positions Ascott as the first hospitality company in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Japan to have all its eligible properties certified under the GSTC standards.
Ascott’s Chief Financial & Sustainability Officer, Beh Siew Kim, highlighted the importance of sustainability certification as a business differentiator, noting that “travellers increasingly look for trusted credentials when they book, and corporate travel buyers expect them.” The GSTC certification not only boosts guest confidence but also enhances Ascott’s visibility across booking platforms.
The certification process involves independent audits by GSTC-accredited bodies, ensuring compliance with global criteria on sustainable management, community impact, cultural heritage, and environmental stewardship.
Ascott plans to certify its entire eligible portfolio by 2028, with Indonesia expected to complete certification by the end of 2026, adding over 50 properties to its certified list.
Ascott’s sustainability initiatives extend beyond certification. In Australia, Quest has become the first multi-site hotel brand to achieve the highest accreditation for accessible accommodation.
In India, Somerset Greenways Chennai has implemented a water bottling system, eliminating over 168,000 single-use plastic bottles annually.
In the Philippines, Ascott has partnered with Rural Rising to plant over 500 indigenous trees and transform a former dumpsite into a community park.
These efforts are part of Ascott CARES, the company’s global sustainability framework, which supports its goal of achieving Net Zero by 2050.
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