Introduction

ABTA and ANVR are committed to promoting credible and consistent sustainability standards across travel and tourism, to support both consumer trust and responsible supply chains.

Acting on member feedback, we are in the process of revising our approach to identifying sustainability certification schemes for hotels, to recognise self-declared compliance with the EU Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive (EmpCo) which is effective from 27 September 2027. 

Eligibility

We are currently in the process of introducing a new eligibility framework, which includes self-declared compliance with EmpCo.

Under the existing framework, to be included on the list schemes must provide sustainability certification specific to accommodations, developed with stakeholder input, and be verified through an independent, competent process.

Current schemes on the list are either:

• Part of the GSTC Market Access Program (MAP), or
• Members of the Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance (TSCA); or
• Have provided ABTA with a signed commitment to achieve accreditation by the end of 2026 from a national accreditation body (NAB) that is a member of the International Accreditation Forum (IAF).

The listed schemes require compliance to be demonstrated through an objective verification procedure, carried out by an independent and competent body – whether a third-party organisation or an auditor appointed by a government authority – in line with international, EU, or national standards and procedures.  

To assist members during this transition period, we have indicated where assurances have been provided on EMPCO compliance, or remain pending. We will update the list over coming weeks as further information becomes available, and publish the updated framework in due course.

If your scheme meets the eligibility criteria but does not currently appear on the list, please contact ABTA for more information: sustainability@abta.co.uk.

Latest update: 25 September 2026 (Transitional arrangements)

GSTC Accredited Certification Bodies

How GSTC Certification Supports Compliance with the EU EmpCo Directive | GSTC

Where a sustainability certification is delivered by GSTC-accredited certification bodies, GSTC provide assurance regarding alignment with the relevant EmpCo principles.

Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance (TSCA)

TSCA has provided assurance that TSCA members meet the requirements of the EU Empowering Consumers Directive.

Other schemes: 

ABTA is contacting the individual Standard Owners in this category to request a declaration of compliance with EmpCo.

GSTC Market Access Program: GSTC recognised standard

How GSTC Certification Supports Compliance with the EU EmpCo Directive | GSTC

Note: GSTC Recognition alone should not be interpreted as confirmation of EmpCo compliance

Schemes which provided a signed commitment

** Important note: while this transitional arrangement is in place, we encourage members to conduct due diligence concerning EmpCo compliance**

Other sources of information, such as the Travalyst Certifications Initiative provide further information which may be of assistance Certifications - Travalyst

ABTA support

ABTA is here to support member tour operators and their suppliers. We encourage hotels and partners currently using non-eligible schemes to engage with their providers early and plan their steps towards compliance.

This approach helps reduce the risk of using schemes that do not meet recognised standards, while supporting our members in raising sustainability performance across the industry.

Important notes

Inclusion on the lists does not represent a recommendation, approval, guarantee, or endorsement by ABTA, ANVR, or our members. The lists are provided free of charge, and businesses do not pay to be included.

The eligibility criteria and the list of recognised certifications may be subject to revision.

The list – and any new applications to be included on it – are reviewed quarterly by ABTA’s sustainability department in conjunction with a working group of ABTA/ANVR member businesses.