The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has recently launched a new tool called STAR (Sustainability and Tourism Assessment and Rating) to boost rural tourism sustainability. This tool is designed to help rural tourism destinations assess and improve their sustainability practices, ensuring that tourism development in these areas is both environmentally friendly and socially responsible.
Rural tourism has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more travelers seek out authentic and sustainable experiences in natural and cultural landscapes. However, the rapid growth of rural tourism has also brought challenges, such as overdevelopment, environmental degradation, and cultural exploitation.
The STAR tool aims to address these challenges by providing rural tourism destinations with a comprehensive framework for assessing their sustainability performance. Through a series of indicators and criteria, destinations can evaluate their environmental, social, and economic impact, and identify areas for improvement. The tool also includes a rating system that allows destinations to benchmark their performance against international best practices and standards.
By implementing the STAR tool, rural tourism destinations can enhance their sustainability practices and attract more responsible travelers. The tool will also help destinations monitor their progress over time and demonstrate their commitment to sustainable tourism to stakeholders and visitors.
UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism in rural areas, stating that “rural tourism has the potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and preserve natural and cultural heritage. However, it is crucial that this growth is sustainable and benefits local communities. The STAR tool will help rural destinations achieve this balance and ensure that tourism development is a force for good.”
The launch of the STAR tool comes at a critical time, as the tourism industry grapples with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Rural tourism destinations, in particular, have been hit hard by the crisis, as travel restrictions and safety concerns have led to a decline in visitor numbers. By embracing sustainable practices and promoting responsible tourism, rural destinations can not only recover from the pandemic but also thrive in the long term.
In conclusion, the STAR tool represents a significant step forward in promoting sustainability in rural tourism. By empowering destinations to assess and improve their sustainability practices, the tool will help ensure that rural tourism development is both environmentally friendly and socially responsible. As the world looks towards a more sustainable and responsible tourism future, the STAR tool will play a crucial role in shaping the industry’s path forward.
