Sustainable Tourism Eco-certification Program
MAY 11, 2007. Sustainable Travel International (STI) and NSF International have teamed together to introduce North America's first comprehensive eco-certification program designed to address growing consumer and travel industry interest in understanding the environmental, socio-cultural, and economic impacts of travel and tourism, and supporting responsible business practices.
STI's Sustainable Tourism Eco-certification Program (STEP) is a user-friendly program that is educational in nature, practical as a measurement, management and marketing tool, and applicable to businesses of all sizes, including newcomers to sustainability, those wanting to improve their existing approach, and those that have long-standing sustainability programs.
STEP is designed to help hoteliers around the world support environmental conservation and protect cultural heritage while promoting cross-cultural understanding and economic development. Hoteliers who participate in STEP will save money through energy efficiency and waste management while expanding their marketing reach.
The barriers to entry are minimal; application fees start as low as $200. For more information, please call 720-273-2975, email info@sustainabletravel.com, or visit www.ecocertification.org.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, with more than 4,200 properties in 80 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $14 billion in fiscal year 2014. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, BVlgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels and Resorts®, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels® and MoxyHotels®. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 50 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at 
