Global Sustainable Tourism Council and MTA strengthen ties through MOU agreement

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) agreement, solidifying their commitment to advancing sustainable tourism practices in Malta.

The GSTC is an international organization dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism practices globally. It sets the global standards for sustainable tourism and provides guidance to destinations and businesses on how to implement these practices effectively. The MTA, on the other hand, is responsible for the development and regulation of the tourism sector in Malta.

The MOU agreement between these two entities aims to strengthen their collaboration and cooperation in promoting sustainable tourism in Malta. It outlines various areas of cooperation, including capacity building, destination assessment, and sustainable tourism certification.

One of the key aspects of the agreement is the capacity building component. The GSTC will provide training and educational resources to the MTA and its stakeholders, helping them understand and implement sustainable tourism practices. This will include workshops, webinars, and access to GSTC’s online training platform. By enhancing the knowledge and skills of tourism professionals in Malta, the MTA hopes to create a more sustainable tourism industry that benefits both the environment and the local communities.

Another important aspect of the agreement is destination assessment. The GSTC will assist the MTA in evaluating the sustainability performance of various tourism destinations in Malta. This will involve conducting assessments based on the GSTC Criteria, which cover areas such as environmental management, social and economic benefits, cultural heritage preservation, and visitor satisfaction. By conducting these assessments, the MTA will be able to identify areas of improvement and develop action plans to enhance the sustainability of its tourism destinations.

The MOU agreement also highlights the importance of sustainable tourism certification. The GSTC offers a globally recognized certification program for destinations and businesses that meet its criteria. Through the agreement, the MTA and the GSTC will work together to encourage tourism stakeholders in Malta to pursue GSTC certification. This certification will not only validate their commitment to sustainable practices but also enhance their reputation among travelers who are increasingly seeking environmentally and socially responsible tourism experiences.

Overall, the MOU agreement between the GSTC and the MTA is a significant step towards promoting sustainable tourism in Malta. By leveraging the expertise and resources of the GSTC, the MTA aims to enhance the sustainability performance of its tourism industry and position Malta as a leading sustainable tourism destination. This collaboration will not only benefit the environment and local communities but also contribute to the long-term success and competitiveness of Malta’s tourism sector.