Swisstainable is the Swiss tourism sector’s sustainability programme. As well as individual tourism businesses, entire destinations can also take part in the programme.
The destination programme – like the programme for businesses – is divided into three levels: Level I – committed, Level II – engaged and Level III – leading. This takes into account the different requirements and stages of development of the participating destinations.
Classification as a Swisstainable Destination
At the end of 2024, the Saas-Fee/Saastal holiday region was classified as a Swisstainable Destination at Level I – committed. The destination has since taken the next step in its development: Saas-Fee/Saastal is now classified as a Swisstainable Destination at Level II – engaged.
The classification is based on the requirements of the Swisstainable Destinations programme and the further development of sustainable destination management in collaboration with tourism partners and service providers.
Iwan Bitschin, Head of Marketing and Communication, on achieving Swisstainable Destination Level II – engaged:
"With our Level II – engaged classification, we are taking a further step towards the sustainable development of our destination. Together with our service providers, we are implementing specific projects in areas such as mobility, energy and regional value creation. Dialogue with our partners is a key part of this process, enabling us to continue driving sustainable development in the Saas Valley together."
What does Level II – engaged mean?
The Level II – engaged classification requires that the requirements of the Swisstainable Destination Programme are met and that the sustainable development of the destination is systematically pursued.
The current requirements and criteria are set out by the Swiss Tourism Federation.
Requirements for a Swisstainable destination Level II – engaged
A responsible destination that also considers social and ecological aspects makes an essential contribution to the sustainable development of Swiss tourism.
A more efficient use of resources leads to cost savings and economic benefits.
Destinations with a demonstrable commitment to sustainability have a wide range of potential. A consistent focus enables them to strengthen their image as a responsible destination and position themselves accordingly.
Swisstainable participants benefit from targeted and effective campaigns and marketing measures by Switzerland Tourism and other tourism umbrella organisations.
There is a growing target group of guests with an affinity for sustainability who increasingly expect tourism providers to implement sustainability measures and to take sustainability aspects into account in the design of their offers.
Sustainability is also increasingly an important decision-making criterion for booking and travel portals as well as for events and business tourism.
In times of a shortage of skilled workers, responsible businesses and destinations have a decisive advantage in recruitment and employer branding.
A systematic commitment to sustainability can reduce dependencies, strengthen resilience and support good cooperation with partners in the destination. Studies have also shown that sustainable destinations recover more quickly from setbacks.
A systematic analysis of sustainability aspects reveals weaknesses as well as strengths and thus enables the targeted further development of a destination.
The requirements regarding sustainability commitments are increasing due to new legal frameworks, regulations, and programmes. Those who prepare early and anticipate new regulations gain a competitive advantage.
Contact
Sandra Hilfiker
Contact person for the Swisstainable programme
Obere Dorfstrasse 2
3906 Saas-Fee | Valais, Switzerland
sandra.hilfiker@saas-fee.ch
+41 27 958 18 68 | saas-fee.ch
Iwan Bitschin
Head of Marketing and Communication Development
Responsible for sustainability
Obere Dorfstrasse 2
3906 Saas-Fee | Valais, Switzerland
iwan.bitschin@saas-fee.ch
+41 27 958 18 65 | saas-fee.ch