ecotourism certification schemes

Ecotourism certification schemes and quality standards

as networking and marketing tools

Aivar Ruukel

Local tourism business in Soomaa NPLocal tourism business in Soomaa NP

Local tourism business in Soomaa NPLocal tourism business in Soomaa NP

Local tourism business in Soomaa NPLocal tourism business in Soomaa NP

Ecotourism certification scheme Ecotourism certification scheme

since 2009 PAN Parks

2009 EDEN award winner

Ecotourism Destinations in Europe

What are the benefits of certification schemes and quality standards as networking and marketing tools?

How to improve the benefits- at destination level?- at business level?

It has been a vital networking tool locally, for getting different players together - to discuss our future (vision, aims)- and to better define the roles and responsibilities of these players

It has improved cooperation and joined marketing in our region.

It gives to our destination a profile,makes us more known in Europe, and more visibility nationally, regionally, and globally

Tourists prefer regions that have some type of certification

Our customers report that they chose us because of what we do and not because of our certification

It adds to credibility- among various players- among tourists

Tourists know better what to expect, when they visit certified destination.

14 case studies on tourism in wetlands

What should be done to improve the benefits provided by certification programs and quality standards at destination level?

There is a strong potential to benefit from networking but in fact there is not much networking.

Meet more often and discuss about their opportunities

Certifications are beneficial if they are well known.Unfortunately they are not!

Better promotion of the marketing brand and cooperation with tourism sector

The area must first mature. Unfortunately there are many conflicting interests. Mass tourism provides the jobs but also determines the focus and target group of the area. Policy makers will go for the highest tax revenue = mass tourism.

Being member of network makes ones business more known at national and international level as well.

It helps to stand out among other service providers in the region

When business cooperates with the NP it helps to attract more eco-tourists.

International quality is convincing travel agencys

It is a quality guarantee if you are certified and internationally notified

What should be done to improve the benefits provided by certification programs and quality standards at business level?

Business care about simplicity

Less (criterias) is more!

Certification + (Online) Reputation

Thank you!

Contacts:

twitter: @ruukel

aivar@soomaa.com

skype: aivarruukel