Ascott reaches half‑way point in GSTC certification of eligible hotels
Ascott Limited has certified 50 % of its eligible hotel portfolio under the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) standards, announced on 12 November 2026. The milestone keeps the Singapore‑based group on track to certify its entire eligible portfolio by 2028, affecting guests at its properties worldwide.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Ascott has certified half of its eligible hotels under GSTC standards
- Timing
- Announcement made on 12 November 2026
- Who is affected
- Guests staying at Ascott hotels in certified and pending regions
The details
- Announced by
- Ascott Limited
- Takes effect
- 12 November 2026
Certification milestone achieved
The hospitality group reported that 50 % of its eligible property portfolio now holds GSTC certification. The certification confirms that each audited property meets global criteria for sustainable management, community impact, cultural heritage and environmental stewardship.
Geographic coverage of certified properties
Ascott is the first hospitality company to have all eligible properties GSTC‑certified in the Philippines, Malaysia and Japan. Full certification has also been achieved in India, Laos, Europe and Australia. In Indonesia, the company expects to certify all eligible properties by the end of 2026, which will raise its overall certified share to over 65 %.
Future targets and sustainability framework
The group remains on track to certify its entire eligible portfolio by 2028. Certification is guided by Ascott CARES, the company’s global sustainability framework aligned with GSTC standards. Under this framework, the Ascott CarbonClear Initiative, launched in 2024, continues to improve energy, water, waste and carbon performance, supporting the Net Zero (Scope 1 and 2) target for 2050.
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers booking stays at Ascott hotels in the Philippines, Malaysia or Japan can now expect GSTC‑certified sustainability practices.
- Guests planning future trips to Indonesia should note that additional properties will become certified by the end of 2026.
Cost and documents
- No additional fees or documentation are required from guests as a result of the certification.
- The certification does not affect existing reservation costs or payment terms.
What you need to do
- Guests do not need to take any specific action; bookings can continue as usual.
- Travelers interested in sustainable accommodation can look for the GSTC badge on Ascott property pages.
Who this affects
-
Guests at Ascott hotels in the Philippines, Malaysia and Japan
All eligible properties in these countries are now GSTC‑certified.
-
Guests at Ascott hotels in India, Laos, Europe and Australia
These regions already have full GSTC certification for eligible properties.
-
Guests at Ascott hotels in Indonesia
Certification is expected by the end of 2026, increasing the certified share.
-
Travelers seeking sustainable hotel options
Ascott’s expanding GSTC certification provides a verified sustainability label.
Frequently asked questions
What does GSTC certification mean for Ascott hotels?
GSTC certification confirms that an Ascott property meets internationally recognised standards for sustainable management, community impact, cultural heritage protection and environmental stewardship.
Which Ascott hotels are fully GSTC‑certified?
All eligible Ascott properties in the Philippines, Malaysia, Japan, India, Laos, Europe and Australia have achieved full GSTC certification.
When will all Ascott hotels be GSTC‑certified?
Ascott aims to certify its entire eligible portfolio by 2028, with the remaining Indonesian properties expected to be certified by the end of 2026.
Does GSTC certification affect the price of staying at an Ascott hotel?
No, the certification does not change room rates or require additional fees from guests.
How can I identify a GSTC‑certified Ascott property when booking?
Certified properties display the GSTC badge on Ascott’s website and booking platforms, indicating compliance with the sustainability standards.
