The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched the world’s first-ever global safety and hygiene stamp.
The specially-designed stamp will allow travellers to recognise governments and businesses around the world which have adopted health and hygiene global standardised protocols, prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The landmark move by WTTC, which represents travel and tourism’s private sector across the globe, has also received the backing of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).
Eligible businesses such as hotels, restaurants, airlines, cruise lines, tour operators, restaurants, outdoor shopping, transportation, and airports will be able to use the stamp once the health and hygiene protocols, outlined by WTTC, have been implemented.
Destinations will also help to award the stamp of approval to local suppliers.
The launch of global protocols to boost the travel and tourism sector have been embraced by over 200 CEOs, including those from some of the world’s major tourism groups, according to the industry body. Online travel agencies Trip.com and Expedia have also supported WTTC’s initiative.
WTTC president and chief executive Gloria Guevara said: “We are delighted that UNWTO are supporting the private sector global protocols and our efforts as public-private collaboration is critical to ensure a faster recovery.
“We have learned from past crises that global standard protocols and consistency provides confidence for the traveller. Our new global safety stamp is designed to help rebuild consumer confidence worldwide.
“Now, travellers will be able to recognise the businesses and destinations worldwide which have adopted the new set of global protocols that will encourage the return of ‘Safe Travels’ around the world.
“It will, in turn, help the travel and tourism sector to reopen for business and move in a coordinated approach.
Last week, WTTC launched the first range of new worldwide measures that were part of its Safe Travels protocols to rebuild consumer confidence and encourage the restoration of the global travel and tourism sector.
Featured image: iStock/GOCMEN
