Pacific Sustainable Tourism Standards Launched

19th October 2023

Cook Islands Tourism

Cook Islands Tourism congratulates SPTO on the launch of the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Standards

Cook Islands Tourism congratulates our regional tourism partners the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) on the launch of the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Standards.

The Pacific Sustainable Tourism Standard for Destinations and Industry provides guidance towards improved sustainability in tourism as required by the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework (PSTPF). This important work highlights the importance of shifting towards sustainable destination planning and management and tourism business practices that support prosperous and resilient economies.

The Pacific Sustainable Tourism Standard for destinations and industry aims to:

Provide direction and guidance to develop and implement national sustainability standards for SPTO member countries. This will act as a benchmark for each destination and the tourism industry to assess current performance, and to progressively build upon in areas requiring further development over time.

Support member countries and their tourism sector in becoming more sustainable through public and private sector partnerships and action.

Create awareness and encourage visitors to travel responsibly.

Involved with the development of the standards through our role as Chair of the SPTO Sustainable Tourism sub-committee, CIT looks forward to utilizing the standards as we continue to strive towards sustainable and regenerative tourism principles and practices, as directed via the Cook Islands Tourism Development Strategy (CITDS).

For more information visit SPTO Website

For media inquiries and further information, please contact Brad Kirner, Director of Destination Development, Cook Islands Tourism Corporation [email protected]