Travelindex, a company focused on developing data driven travel discovery and travel planning products, announced the first sustainability incentive program; Sustainable First. Sustainable First is not a certification program but aims to recognize individuals, companies and organizations making significant efforts and contributing to the environmental, social and economic welfare of the planet and all its inhabitants.
Sustainability is central to economic growth. For the private sector, it represents greater environmental and social responsibility as well as a new landscape of business opportunity in particular for the tourism sector. Tourism plays a key role in delivering sustainable solutions and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has declared 2017 "International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development".
Sustainable First intends to inspire actions and strategies for moving towards a more sustainable pattern of development in tourism providing prosperity and opportunities for all. The program's vision is to make the tourism industry the leading activity sector in implementing sustainable strategies.
Bernard Metzger, Founder of Travelindex, said; "Currently, there are over 128 organizations offering certification programs and multiple challenges are associated with the current status of sustainability certification, i.e. the proliferation of schemes has lead to confusion among actors involved and consumers are unsure of credibility, reducing the value of the certification.
Bernard further added, "the recognition methodoly used at "Sustainable First" is based on a 3-tier patented Travelindex algorithm and the Sustainable Recognition Index. They include crowd wisdom, self-assessment and expert opinions. Travelindex will work closely with recognized and reputable organizations in the fields of development, tourism, environment and sustainability."
Send us your ideas and suggestions here: partners@sustainablefirst.com
