Khiri Travel, a leading sustainable tourism operator in Asia, has taken a significant step forward in its commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Ten of the company’s staff have recently earned the prestigious Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism, following the completion of a comprehensive four-week online course and examination.
This endeavor is part of Khiri Travel’s ambitious goal to become a fully GSTC-certified destination management company (DMC) by the end of 2025. The certified individuals include six of Khiri’s Green Team spokespeople, two general managers, one office manager, and the sustainability coordinator at Khiri’s headquarters.
The comprehensive training program was led by sustainability experts Nia Klatte and Ayako Ezaki, with guest speakers contributing valuable operational insights. Delivered via the TrainingAid platform, the course featured live sessions, interactive modules, and in-depth technical discussions.
This instruction will help Khiri strengthen its internal sustainability management system across its 18 offices in the eight Asian countries where it operates. Khiri Travel is committed to the 4Cs of Conservation, Community, Culture, and responsible Commerce, and this certification represents a key milestone in the company’s journey towards overall GSTC certification.
“GSTC training has elevated technical understanding and Khiri’s readiness for certification across the company,” said Sukhum Jarangdej, sustainability coordinator at Khiri Core. “It also ensures our local Green Teams are equipped to lead sustainability efforts in meaningful and measurable ways, in practice, not just in theory.”
Each Khiri country office has its own Green Team consisting of volunteer staff who spearhead sustainability projects, support certification initiatives, and foster a culture of eco-consciousness across all departments. To receive the personal GSTC certification, participants must pass the exam with a minimum score of 80%.
Khiri’s commitment to sustainability is further underscored by the fact that the company’s three remaining general managers and a newly appointed green team spokesperson from Vietnam are now participating in the GSTC training course. Natalie van Ogtrop, the sustainability manager for Khiri’s parent company, Yaana Ventures, also earned the certification earlier this year.
“The training represents a key milestone as Khiri moves toward overall GSTC certification as a company,” said Willem Niemeijer, CEO of Khiri Travel. “We are committed to the 4Cs of Conservation, Community, Culture and responsible Commerce. Khiri will continue to lead by example on positive-impact regenerative tourism throughout Asia.”
