As part of Asia Sustainable Travel (AST)'s ongoing commitment to better support the hotel and travel industry, we conducted a survey to understand how APAC hospitality and travel professionals perceived and evaluated sustainability certifications, such as B Corp, Positive Luxury, and those accredited by Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

This report synthesizes key findings from the survey and provides targeted recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of sustainability certification schemes.

In the dynamic hospitality landscape of Southeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific region, a few trailblazing establishments are redefining sustainability, community engagement, and innovation. Locavore NXT, Begawan Biji, and John Hardy The Long Table in Bali serve as exemplary case studies, demonstrating how fine dining and luxury experiences can harmoniously align with environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. These businesses provide valuable insights for restaurants striving to place sustainability at the heart of their business. 

Bali is long celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. As one of Asia’s earliest international travel destinations, the island has a hospitality ecosystem that is as resilient as it is creative, constantly setting benchmarks for the region.

While busy and crowded as it appears in certain parts of the island, many brands in Bali have demonstrated an ability to combine sustainability with profitability, crafting ventures that captivate global travelers while offering invaluable lessons for industry professionals. 

Previously, we explored the innovative practices of trailblazers like Desa Potato Head and Fivelement, Bambu Indah and Alila Uluwatu — brands that have not only minimized environmental impact but also created unique product offerings by integrating sustainability into their core strategies.

From reducing plastic waste to preserving biodiversity and cultural heritage, they show what it means to be a responsible business in the tourism sector.