Aitken Spence Travels achieves GSTC certification

• Sets a new benchmark for sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka 

Aitken Spence Travels, Sri Lanka’s leading destination management company, announced the achievement of the internationally recognised certification from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), marking a historic milestone in the company’s sustainability journey.

The GSTC provides the world’s most comprehensive and respected framework for sustainable tourism, built upon four key pillars: sustainable management, socioeconomic benefits to local communities, preservation of cultural heritage and environmental responsibility.

Achieving the GSTC certification is not an easy task but a rigorous and demanding process. It requires companywide engagement, supply chain compliance, continuous monitoring of environmental performance, extensive documentation and independent third-party on-site audits by a GSTC accredited body. It goes far beyond compliance embedding sustainability into the company corporate strategy, operational processes and decision making frameworks.

At Aitken Spence Travels, this certification confirms that sustainability principles are actively implemented and independently verified across the organisation. It reflects a measurable commitment that goes beyond policy and into real operational impact.

Aitken Spence Travels Managing Director Nalin Jayasundera stated “This achievement represents the highest recognition of all sustainability certifications and we are proud to be among a very few DMCs who have GSTC and Travelife certification. Sustainability at ASTL is not an isolated initiative. We drive it with clear leadership direction and strong governance. 

The GSTC certification represents the highest global benchmark in sustainable tourism. At ASTL, sustainability is not a standalone initiative, it is embedded in our strategic direction and governance framework. We operate with strong alignment and support from the wider Aitken Spence PLC Group, ensuring our strategies are fully synchronised and our impact is cohesive, measurable and meaningful. 

As a leader in tourism, we believe in walking the talk. This certification affirms that our commitment to responsible tourism is authentic, structured and deeply integrated across the organisation.”