Colombia. March 31, 2017 was the deadline for the country's tourism sector, under article 5 of Law 1558 of 2012, to implement the Standards of the Sectoral Technical Units of Sustainable Tourism and Adventure (NTS-TS 002), which are mandatory, as regulated by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism.
This regulation, which responds to the need to promote responsible tourism, was designed, among other things, in order to improve and encourage the services offered to travelers visiting the country thinking not only about quality and attention to detail, but also about the environment and the communities that are impacted.
The accommodation and lodging establishments had a period of 18 months to comply with the regulations dictated by Law 1558 of 2012 and Resolution 2804 of 2014.
Since the law was known, the sector has agreed and has even participated in the design of the regulations. Since in an international context, hotels that are committed to everything that has to do with sustainability and eco-responsibility are increasingly valued.
Among the criteria that must be met, the efficient management of water and energy and the management of solid and hazardous waste stand out. In relation to the social and cultural impact, NTS-TS 002 requires the promotion and protection of the heritage of the region, as well as instruction on the flora and fauna of the region; that is, to identify with local and scientific names the species exhibited in the enclosures, with the purpose of making travelers aware of the wonderful biodiversity that the country enjoys.
On the other hand, the hiring of members of local communities is required to strengthen their labor skills, as well as to promote the workforce in the area.
