Businesses

According to PhoCusWright's 2009 report on Going Green: The Business Impact of Environmental Awareness, 56% of U.S. travelers are skeptical of what companies are telling them about green practices. STEP is one of the best ways to validate your company's "green" claims. Both the STEP and Sustainable Travel International logos are globally recognized brands that help travelers make informed decisions about the travel companies they patron. STEP assures travelers that eco-assessed and eco-certified products and services are backed by a strong commitment to sustainable business practices.

Join our clients and supporters, and become a recognized leader in sustainable tourism. For more information, please continue reading, review the links detailed on the left, or contact us.

Three Simple Steps

Industry leaders that successfully integrate sustainable business practices into their operations typically take an incremental approach - ramping up their initiatives as time and resources allow. Our systematic approach facilitates this process and includes up to three steps:

Step 1 - Assessment. Our project management and self-assessment license gives you access to our Sustainability Planning & Reporting Kit, including a workbook, policy templates, benchmarking tables, and a half hour to one hour consultation. These tools will help you to self-assess your company and implement sustainable business practices. Although Assessment is a voluntary procedure, companies who complete an Assessment are encouraged to apply for Eco-certification.

Step 2 - Application. Following the Assessment, you have the option to apply for Eco-certification. Applicants only need to submit the “Required” Policy & Documentation (P&D). STI will review and evaluate the information provided. This verification is defined as 2nd party Certification. If your P&D is approved, you will receive 1 star Eco-certified logo that is valid for up to 12 months, and you can proceed with scheduling an on-site assessment.

Step 3 - Eco-certification. Next, a STEP Lead Auditor will undertake an on-site assessment to verify compliance with STEP, and document and compare their findings with the information provided in your Application. This on-site assessment defines 3rd party Certification. STI's Evaluation Committee will then review the auditor's report and determine whether to Eco-certify your business and at what level. Successful applicants receive a 2-5 star Eco-certified logo that is valid for 24 months.