Achieving quality in ecotourism: tools in the toolbox.

Abstract

This chapter introduces the spectrum of quality assurance tools that have been developed and applied in the ecotourism industry to address and improve quality. Specifically the chapter looks at awards of excellence, codes of conduct, certification and accreditation, and monitoring and evaluation. The latter part of the chapter provides a more detailed overview of certification programs. This emphasis on certification reflects the benefits of this approach over other voluntary initiatives such as awards and codes, and the increasing number of programs throughout the world. Each of the chapters in Part One provides a detailed analysis of a particular quality assurance tool.

Marine environmental awareness among university students in Taiwan: a potential signal for sustainability of the oceans

“…It is noted that ecolabeling in tourism is becoming common internationally, including over 100 ecolabels for tourism hospitality and ecotourism (Font 2002). It is a tool to pursue quality assurance, environmental sustainability, interpretation/ education and return to local communities (Black and Alice 2007). Ecolabels for beaches have been around since 1985 and have grown rapidly over the past decades (Boevers 2008).…”

Greening the guest bedroom: Exploring hosts’ perspectives on environmental certification for Airbnb

“…In order to legitimize claims of environmental concern and dispel accusations of greenwashing, many firms choose to pursue environmental certification (Geerts, 2014). Certification is a “voluntary procedure that sets, assesses, monitors and gives written assurance that a business, product, process, service or management system conforms to a specific requirement” (Black and Crabtree, 2007: p.20). In an environmental context, certification typically includes assurances or indicators related to environmental issues like energy use, water use, greenhouse gas emissions, and use of chemical or harmful substances (Honey and Stewart, 2002).…”

“…This research explores the opinions of Airbnb hosts towards environmental certification. Environmental certification is the process by which a service provider is awarded a logo for adhering to certain environmental standards (Black and Crabtree, 2007). Many hospitality providers have pursued environmental certification (also referred to as eco-label or eco-certification) in order to demonstrate their environmental commitment and attract certain market segments (Geerts, 2014; Hamilton, 2015; Hilton Worldwide, n.d.; Rezidor Hotel Group, n.d.).…”

Exploring the opportunity for an environmental certification program for Airbnb homeowner hosts

“…Environmental certification is the process by which a service provider is awarded a logo for adhering to certain environmental standards (Black & Crabtree, 2007). Hospitality providers have pursued environmental certification in order to demonstrate their environmental commitment (Geerts, 2014).…”