What is behind the GSTC certification?
The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) defines internationally recognised criteria for sustainable tourism. The assessment is based on four pillars:
- Sustainable management
Clear structures, responsibilities, and continuous improvement.
- Socio‑economic benefits for the local population
Fair value creation, regional cycles, community involvement.
- Protection of cultural heritage
Preserving traditions, identity, and local knowledge.
- Environmental conservation
Resource management, biodiversity, and climate action.
For the Tschögglberg, the certification represents a strong commitment to quality: the region follows clear goals, implements measures consistently, and works continuously on improvements – together with partners, businesses, and the local community.
Successfully completed: the GSTC Re‑Audit 2026
In early February 2026, the three‑day GSTC re‑audit took place on the Tschögglberg – and we are pleased to report that it was successfully completed.
The auditor reviewed all submitted documents, visited various locations, met businesses, associations, and municipal representatives, and gained an authentic impression of the area.
The focus was on both progress since the initial certification and the real implementation of sustainability criteria in everyday practice. The re‑audit confirms: the Tschögglberg continues to develop consistently and credibly.We now look ahead to planning for 2026 – and welcome any ideas contributing to sustainable development.
Review: Projects and priorities in 2025
In 2025, intensive work continued on the Tschögglberg to advance sustainable destination development. Here are some of the measures implemented:
Website restructuring
tschoegglberg.info was expanded and reorganised with additional content on nature, culture, and sustainability.
Launch of the “Tschögglberg lokal” initiative
Strengthens regional value creation and connects agriculture, crafts, and businesses.
Surveys among residents & guests
Valuable insights into needs, perceptions, and satisfaction.
Creation of a value‑creation analysis
Shows for the first time how tourism spending benefits the Tschögglberg and where regional potential lies.
Short video about the Haflinger horse
Produced by IDM as a strong identity piece of the region.
Mindful in the mountains: drinking water & plastic reduction
New signs highlight the excellent quality of drinking water. All refill points are now listed on refill.bz.it and tschoegglberg.info.
Energy sources surveyed
For the first time, an energy profile of the municipalities was compiled.
Participation in the South Tyrol CleanUP Days
Information evenings on water‑saving technologies. In cooperation with the Burggrafenamt Energy Community.
Launch of a joint WhatsApp channel
A central platform for updates and sustainability topics since 2025.
Outlook
With the successful re‑audit, the next development phase begins. Together with businesses, associations, municipalities, and residents, we will continue to implement concrete projects that strengthen nature, culture, and regional value creation.