Sustainable Tourism

Certification for Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Facilities

The Sustainable Tourism certification confirms that a tourism facility is managed in a responsible environmental, organizational and social manner, in line with sustainable development principles and the LIBRE EIS system approach.

The certification applies to:

• hotels and resorts,
• apartments and guesthouses,
• agrotourism facilities,
• sport and recreational centers,
• wellness and holiday complexes.

Modern tourism is no longer defined only by comfort. Energy efficiency, resource management, environmental protection and social responsibility are now essential components of long-term competitiveness.

A System-Based Management Approach

Sustainable Tourism certification is not a marketing label.
It is the result of a structured audit conducted by certified LIBRE professionals and covers key operational areas of the facility.

Each facility receives performance ratings in five areas:

# Share of Renewable Energy

Percentage of renewable and alternative energy sources within the total energy balance of the facility.

# Energy Efficiency

Annual energy consumption expressed in kWh/m²/year.
Historic or monument buildings may be designated as “MONUMENT” without numerical classification.

# Water Management

Responsible water use, including retention, recovery and treatment systems.

# Human Factor

Workforce management, safety standards, organizational efficiency, CSR engagement and emission reduction practices.

# Bio Production & Local Supply Chains

Share of ecological and locally sourced products offered by the facility, including own production or certified suppliers (e.g., LIBRE Sustainable Food & Drug).

Final results are expressed in performance classes (A+–E) based on measurable criteria.

Resilience and Risk Management

The certification also considers:

• operational resilience during crises (pandemics, supply chain disruptions, energy price fluctuations),
• long-term cost stability,
• infrastructure safety,
• environmental regulatory compliance.

A sustainable facility is a more resilient and competitive facility.

Audit Process

Audits are conducted by:

• International Energy Efficiency Auditor,
• and, in the case of new developments, also by International Energy Efficiency Designer or Installer.

Bio Production verification may additionally be performed directly by LIBRE Foundation.

Renewal and Verification

The certification:

• is renewed annually,
• carries a unique identification number,
• is publicly verifiable at LIBREFoundation.org,
• may be suspended or revoked in case of non-compliance.

Market Relevance

Sustainable Tourism certification:

• enhances attractiveness among environmentally conscious travelers,
• supports cooperation with international partners,
• facilitates access to sustainable finance and funding programs,
• builds long-term competitive advantage.

This is not only about energy savings.
It is a structured management system for responsible tourism.