Singapore Tourism Board spearheads global sustainability standards, redefining urban tourism.  

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has embarked on an ambitious journey to solidify the city-state’s status as a global leader in sustainable urban tourism. With two groundbreaking initiatives—the GSTC Attraction Criteria and the MICE Venue Sustainability Playbook—STB aims to reshape the future of sustainable tourism while contributing to the Singapore Green Plan 2030.  

Pioneering Standards for Attractions  

The GSTC Attraction Criteria, unveiled at the GSTC Global Sustainable Tourism Conference, marks a global milestone as the first standard tailored specifically for attractions. Developed in collaboration with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), the criteria establish a universal benchmark for sustainable practices in the attractions industry.  

“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and positions Singapore as a leading sustainable urban destination,” said Ms. Ong Huey Hong, STB’s Chief Sustainability Officer. Certification for attractions will begin in early 2026, following accreditation of certification bodies in 2025.  

The initiative reflects a collaborative effort involving the Association of Singapore Attractions and global industry stakeholders. Feedback from professionals and public consultations has ensured the criteria’s relevance and practicality.  

GSTC CEO Randy Durband commended the effort, stating, “The GSTC Attraction Criteria represents 14 months of dedication and collaboration. STB’s contributions have been pivotal, setting a sustainable path for the attractions sector.”  

Transforming the MICE Industry  

In tandem with advancements in attractions, STB is revolutionizing the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry with the MICE Venue Sustainability Playbook. This guide builds on insights from Singapore’s national carbon and waste baseline study conducted in 2023, which revealed that 94% of venue-related carbon emissions stem from energy use.  

The Playbook offers actionable strategies for energy efficiency, waste management, and water conservation. It also includes a decarbonization framework, best practices, and access to government support schemes, enabling MICE venues to align with sustainability goals.  

In May 2024, STB introduced an incentive program at the GSTC Conference, encouraging delegates to offset their carbon footprint from air travel. Those who purchased carbon credits received a pre-loaded transport card, fostering awareness of sustainable travel practices.  

 Milestones in Sustainability  

STB’s dedication to sustainability has propelled Singapore to the top spot in Asia Pacific and seventh globally in the Global Destination Sustainability Index 2024. Significant progress has been made in the MICE and Hotel Sustainability Roadmaps:  

– MICE: By 2025, 80% of industry players aim to achieve sustainability certifications. As of now, four of Singapore’s six purpose-built MICE venues have attained certifications.  

– Hotels: Over 38% of hotel rooms have achieved internationally recognized sustainability certification, with more in progress.  

 A Unified Vision  

These initiatives underscore Singapore’s holistic approach to sustainable tourism. From creating global standards to fostering environmentally friendly practices, the nation is leading the charge toward a greener future.  

As SACEOS President Richard Ireland noted, “The recognition of the Singapore MICE Sustainability Certification Framework by GSTC sets a high global standard, reinforcing our industry’s commitment to sustainability.”  

Singapore’s journey reflects an inspiring vision: to redefine tourism by balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship, proving that innovation and sustainability can walk hand in hand.  

For further details, visit [Singapore Tourism Board](https://www.stb.gov.sg).