One of the ways in which the Zeitz Foundation achieves its mission is through the development and support of the Global Ecosphere Retreats (G.E.R.) certification system. The G.E.R. certification system reflects, observes and incorporates available national and international standards and guidelines for all areas of an ecosphere, while still accommodating the need for flexibility when it comes to different ecosystems. Through the certification system, G.E.R. members go beyond these accepted standards to serve as “best practice” models, continuously setting new standards through an ongoing process of learning and innovation. The G.E.R. certification system is transparent, relies on independent experts and follows procedures that are common in other international certifications such as in ecotourism.
Certified G.E.R. are forming an alliance of sustainable and innovative tourist and non-tourist enterprises around the world. The Zeitz Foundation further supports this alliance of G.E.R. members in achieving its mission through, among other initiatives, sponsoring an online directory and travel destination hub for G.E.R. certified operations. Currently in development at www.ecosphere.org, members and visitors alike will be able to access and contribute a variety of information related to the G.E.R., including destination highlights, traveler reviews, sustainable tourism industry information, and the G.E.R. criteria and application guidelines. As members of this alliance, G.E.R are connecting across the globe and, as a collective, contribute to safeguarding the ecosphere.
