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EarthCheck, previously operating under the name EC3 Global, is a globally recognised group specialising in benchmarking, certification, and advisory services. Its primary focus lies in the environmental and scientific dimensions of the travel and tourism sector. Established over 30 years ago, EarthCheck collaborates with prominent research institutions and universities globally to address sustainability and climate change challenges in tourism destinations and businesses. [1][2]
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| Industry | Sustainable tourism Ecotourism |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Brisbane, Queensland, Australia |
| Products | Training, Certification, Advice, and EarthCheck Research Institute |
| Website | earthcheck |
The organisation traces its roots back to Australia’s first National Centre for Studies in Travel & Tourism, established in 1987 at James Cook University. In 1997, it evolved into a part of the Sustainable Tourism Cooperative Research Centre (STCRC) through the support of the Australian Federal Government, 14 universities, and the Australian Tourism Industry. STCRC developed the EarthCheck Benchmarking Methodology for 30 sectors within the travel and visitor economy.[3]
In 2010, the not-for-profit EarthCheck Research Institute (ERI) was established with support from academia and industry. Subsequently, in 2011, Earthcheck Pty. Limited was launched as an independent, profit-for-purpose entity. Since then, both EarthCheck and ERI have continuously adapted to the dynamic needs of the travel and tourism sector, as well as broader sustainability initiatives.[4][5]
EarthCheck's principal certification program, EarthCheck Certified, is operational in over 70 countries, aiding members in achieving sustainable tourism outcomes. In 2018, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) acknowledged the EarthCheck Building Planning and Design Standard (BPDS) for its innovative contributions to research and technology.[6]
EarthCheck's sustainability framework is built on three core pillars: extensive scientific expertise, a culture of efficiency and innovation, and established credibility. The organisation has maintained its focus on research, to support sustainable outcomes.[7]
EarthCheck has sustainability certification and programs for tourism businesses, hotels, destinations, governments, developers and building designers, terrestrial and marine parks, and events.
EarthCheck Certified is a programme designed for travel and tourism businesses focusing on sustainable tourism. It provides a clear and structured way for these businesses to measure and improve their environmental and social impact.[8] The programme is relevant as the industry faces increasing pressure to operate sustainably and reduce its ecological footprint. By participating in EarthCheck Certified, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices, such as reducing carbon emissions and conserving resources.[9][10] The certification process is straightforward and rigorous, ensuring that businesses adhere to holistic criteria across the triple bottom line.
Notable EarthCheck Certified businesses include:
The EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations programme is a global initiative to achieve sustainability outcomes for communities. It provides a comprehensive framework to benchmark, certify, and enhance environmental, cultural, social, and economic performance.
The program is designed to empower local communities to take control of their sustainability goals, building upon local initiatives. It recognises the collective efforts of a destination in working towards towards sustainable outcomes. The program underpins a clear vision for a destination, focusing on strategic policy and action plans. The programme aligns with internationally relevant criteria, such as the Sustainable Development Goals. It addresses environmental regeneration and improvement alongside conserving existing natural heritage assets. [11][12][13]
The Standard employs a performance-based approach supported by various benchmarking indicators and Key Performance Areas (KPAs), which include:
The certification comprises two primary steps: Benchmarking and Certification.[14]
The process to achieve EarthCheck Benchmarked Bronze status typically spans 8-10 months, establishing a baseline for future performance measurement. Further compliance, planning, consultation, communication, and reporting steps are required for final certification. Successful completion of an independent audit leads to EarthCheck Silver Certified status, typically within 10-13 months.
Recertification occurs annually, with an independent audit conducted each year. Continuous compliance over multiple years leads to higher levels of certification: Gold Certified for 5 years, Platinum Certified for 10 years, and Master Certified for over 15 years.
Unlike other sustainability certifications based on a scorecard approach, EarthCheck certification requires yearly compliance with all criteria. The latest Standard includes 119 qualitative benchmark criteria across 12 KPAs, and 265 criteria, including quantitative data, are necessary for complete certification. This approach, encompassing both qualitative and quantitative criteria, highlights the defensibility of EarthCheck's certification.
Notable EarthCheck Sustainable Destinations include:
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