Tourism is a powerful engine for economic growth, providing opportunities for communities all over the globe. But let’s be real—when not managed responsibly, it can also put a heavy strain on the environment and local cultures—the very elements that make travel special. With more travelers pursuing meaningful experiences, embracing local cultures, and soaking in nature’s goodness, the demand for sustainable tourism is higher than ever.
At Villa Finder, we believe sustainability isn’t just a fad; it’s the future of travel. While many industry efforts focus on destinations, hotels, and tour operators, we’re determined to spark change specifically within the villa rental sector. Villas, just like any hospitality business, can adopt sustainable practices that not only protect the environment but also uplift local communities.
Leading the Charge for Change
To pave the way for this transformation, Villa Finder is embedding sustainability into villa rentals. Our dedicated Sustainability Coordinator brings a wealth of experience in assessing and advising tourism businesses –– ensuring that the best practices align with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) standards. Having conducted over 250 sustainability, health, and safety assessments, along with regular training sessions, we’re committed to supporting villa owners on their journey toward sustainability.
Photo sessions with BVRMA members
Driving Change Through Collaboration
However, sustainability can’t be achieved alone — it thrives on collaboration. This February, we partnered with the Bali Villa Rental Management Association (BVRMA) to dive deep into the nuts and bolts of sustainable practices. We tackled topics like:
- The fundamentals of sustainability in villa rentals
- The benefits of adopting eco-friendly practices
- Actionable steps villa owners can take
- The vital role of industry associations in promoting sustainability
Though many villa managers are eager to embrace sustainable practices, they often encounter obstacles, such as tackling plastic waste, identifying the right partners, and allocating resources for eco-friendly initiatives. However, following our enlightening discussions, we noticed a shift in attitudes; many left feeling more confident, curious, and motivated to take meaningful action. One villa owner even took the leap to align with sustainability standards by initiating an assessment—talk about making progress!
For those who want to dive deeper into the insights shared during our discussion, you can access them by clicking the image below.
Sustainability sharing session with BVRMA members
Let’s Make an Impact Together
Sustainability in tourism is a collective responsibility, and at Villa Finder, we’re all about supporting villa owners on this important journey. If you want to integrate sustainable practices into your villa operations, let’s connect and make a positive impact together. Remember, every small step counts, and together we can create a greener future for the travel industry!
