Overview
ISO 20611:2018 - Adventure tourism - Good practices for sustainability - Requirements and recommendations provides practical guidance for adventure tourism activity providers to plan and operate activities with sustainable environmental, social and economic practices. Designed for organizations of all sizes and operating contexts, this ISO standard helps minimize negative impacts on ecosystems and host communities while enhancing positive benefits from adventure tourism.
Keywords: ISO 20611:2018, adventure tourism, sustainability, good practices, environmental management, social responsibility, economic sustainability
Key topics and requirements
The standard defines expectations and recommended actions across the three pillars of sustainability:
Practical applications - who should use it
ISO 20611:2018 is practical for:
- Adventure tour operators and activity providers (trekking, rafting, climbing, wildlife tours)
- Destination managers and tourism boards seeking sustainable development
- Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) offering outdoor experiences
- Certification bodies, sustainability auditors and consultants in tourism
- Local communities and stakeholders engaging with adventure tourism
Benefits include reduced environmental footprint, improved community relations, better risk management, enhanced customer trust and alignment with sustainable tourism goals.
Related standards
- ISO 21101:2014 - Adventure tourism - Safety management systems (definitions referenced)
- ISO 21103 - Providing information for adventure tourism activities (participant briefings)
- ISO Guide 82:2014 - Sustainable development and sustainability terminology
Using ISO 20611:2018 helps adventure tourism providers integrate sustainability, biodiversity protection, waste management, and community engagement into everyday operations for long-term, responsible tourism.