A more sustainable Gstaad
Vision and values
"We are accountable not only for what we do, but also for what we do not do." (Molière)
"A more sustainable Gstaad" is the process towards the most climate-friendly and sustainable tourism possible in the destination of Gstaad. We are aware of our responsibility for the sustainable development of our destination and are doing our utmost to ensure that our grandchildren will still be able to travel to our destination and experience all its fascinating beauty and diversity – applying the "grandchildren test" of sustainability.
Destination strategy
Sustainability is an integral part of our destination strategy. This strategy has been developed together with the 30 largest stakeholders in the region.
As a destination, we strive for a balance between conservation and further development, and we care for landscape, nature, culture and quality of life. At the same time, we are aware of where we are starting from, including the presence of luxury tourism, for example. However, we also regard this challenge as an opportunity.
"A more sustainable Gstaad" is the path we have chosen. This is less about perfection and more about taking a holistic long-term approach to the topic.
Our strategic fields of action are:
- Promoting sustainability
- Advancing sustainability projects
- Strengthening local cycles
- Fostering authenticity
Vision
"Sustainability in Gstaad is both a fine art and a sincere effort to combine Alpine enjoyment with sustainability."
We strive to create regenerative, resilient and sustainable tourism and to develop the destination into a beacon of sustainability. In doing so, everyone – administrators, the private sector, agriculture and the population – actively contributes to sustainable development. We want our active commitment to inspire, even beyond the organisation and the destination.
Values
"A more sustainable Gstaad" is committed to the following values:
- We plan strategically, coherently and pragmatically.
- We want to make a difference by including all 3 aspects of sustainability (environment, society, economy).
- We communicate honestly and objectively and plan with foresight and across issues.
- We want to involve everyone in our destination, one step at a time, and hence to forge bonds.
Goals
Our ultimate goal is to enable resource-efficient tourism and to achieve a sustainable impact. Behind this is the firm conviction that this is in all our interests and that everyone's contribution is needed.
In all our decisions, we always consider ecological, social and economic aspects (3P) and manage them prudently.
In doing so, we pursue the following fundamental strategic goals:
- Contributing to the sustainability goals of the UN, the Confederation and the cantons
- Promoting sustainable mobility
- Expanding the circular economy
- Increasing regional added value
- Fostering authenticity
- Triggering innovation
- Systematically developing sustainability
- Supporting partners
- Providing information and orientation for guests and residents
Swisstainable sustainability programme
Gstaad Saanenland Tourism has been participating in the Swiss Tourism Federation's "Swisstainable" sustainability programme since summer 2022 and meets the criteria for "Swisstainable Level 1 -– committed". We aim to reach Level II by the end of 2024 at the latest.
Our beacons
We are proud of the pioneering work and initiatives of private individuals and companies in the Saanen municipality. Discover them for yourself.
Mobility
Your sustainable holiday in Gstaad actually starts with the way you travel here. You can reach Gstaad comfortably by public transport – it's an exhilarating, panoramic journey. Maybe even on board the world-famous MOB GoldenPass Express? And once in Gstaad, there are also great ways to get around the region in a sustainable way.
Energy
Energy is already produced and consumed in the region as sustainably as possible. A considerable part of the destination has been heated with district heating since 1988, thanks to the pioneering work of a few private individuals. Gstaad Saanenland Tourism obtains 100% of its electricity from renewable energy, mainly from Swiss hydropower. Hydropower plays an important role, along with solar energy.
Regional products
The region around Saanenland is known for its premium-quality regional specialities. We are not referring just to cheese and meat products, but also traditional crafts such as toboggan-building or the art of paper-cutting. You will find regional products in many businesses, and hear interesting details about their origin or production.
Sustainable options
Take a holiday without harming the environment? Experience the region's traditions first hand? Or explore nature up close and learn about it too? Gstaad offers you many different options for spending your holidays more sustainably.
Your contribution
There are many ways to behave considerately and responsibly as a tourist and contribute to sustainability. Here are a few of our suggestions.
