{"id":4798,"date":"2023-05-02T13:10:59","date_gmt":"2023-05-02T10:10:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/?page_id=4798"},"modified":"2026-05-05T13:54:17","modified_gmt":"2026-05-05T10:54:17","slug":"certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/","title":{"rendered":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations"},"content":{"rendered":"<section class=\"l-section wpb_row us_custom_d8da1db1 height_auto color_alternate\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row type_default valign_middle\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row  us_custom_6df4bc3a type_default valign_top vc_inner has_text_color\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-separator size_small\"><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column us_custom_6df4bc3a has_text_color\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h1><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\">Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations<\/span><\/h1>\n<p>The certification scheme recognizes the efforts to develop an ecotourism destination and allows local public authorities to be involved, together with protected area administrations and the business community, in the process.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_small\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_medium\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row type_default valign_top\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2><strong>History of the development of the certification scheme for ecotourism destinations in Romania<\/strong><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>In 2005-2007, AER develops the first certification system for destinations within the Eco-Romania certification scheme, together with accommodation services and tourism programs.<\/li>\n<li>This system is later revised and the set of criteria for destinations is removed because AER does not have the capacity to implement it without government support.<\/li>\n<li>In 2009 the concept of ecotourism destination is defined in the National Ecotourism Strategy developed by the National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism, a document to which AER was a stakeholder and to which it contributed following the public consultation process.<\/li>\n<li>In 2011, the Interministerial Working Group for the Development of Ecotourism in Romania (established through Ministerial Order no. 56\/14.01.2011) was established under the coordination of the National Authority for Tourism; it is responsible for the implementation of the actions in the strategy and the elaboration and implementation of the criteria for destinations.<\/li>\n<li>In 2011 &#8211; 2013, the National Tourism Authority coordinated the process of developing the criteria and procedure for the evaluation of ecotourism destinations in Romania.<\/li>\n<li>The concept of ecotourism destination was launched by Romania at the European Ecotourism Conference (Poiana Brasov, 2013), agreed upon, and adopted at the European level by the Europarc Federation and national associations from 8 countries.<\/li>\n<li>In 2014, the first two ecotourism destinations are evaluated and officially recognized by the National Tourism Authority.<\/li>\n<li>The national ecotourism strategy was reviewed in 2015 and 2019.<\/li>\n<li>In 2019, the Governmental Decision No 358\/2019 is issued to ensure the legal framework for the implementation of the strategy and the evaluation of destinations.<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In 2024, Government Decision no. 163\/2024 approves the Action Plan for implementing the strategy and amends the criteria for destination certification, while Order of the Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Tourism no. 1946\/2024 modifies the evaluation procedure for ecotourism destinations.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row height_medium\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row type_default valign_top\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Benefits for destinations with a valid certificate<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row  type_default valign_top vc_inner\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-4 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">[vc_icon type=&#8221;typicons&#8221; icon_typicons=&#8221;typcn typcn-tags&#8221; color=&#8221;custom&#8221; size=&#8221;xl&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; custom_color=&#8221;#46accc&#8221;]<div class=\"w-separator size_small\"><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p style=\"text-align: center;\">A local partnership between the local public administration, the private sector, the protected natural area administration, and NGOs acting locally is established, which will lead to the implementation of a destination management structure through its own <strong>Destination Management Organisation (DMO)<\/strong> or integration into a DMO (e.g., at the county level).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-4 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">[vc_icon type=&#8221;typicons&#8221; icon_typicons=&#8221;typcn typcn-directions&#8221; color=&#8221;custom&#8221; size=&#8221;xl&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; custom_color=&#8221;#46accc&#8221;]<div class=\"w-separator size_small\"><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Clear directions for local tourism development<\/strong> are established.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-4 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\">[vc_icon type=&#8221;typicons&#8221; icon_typicons=&#8221;typcn typcn-leaf&#8221; color=&#8221;custom&#8221; size=&#8221;xl&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; custom_color=&#8221;#46accc&#8221;]<div class=\"w-separator size_small\"><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p style=\"text-align: center;\">In the future, certified destinations could also benefit from:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"text-align: center;\">Dedicated <strong>funding and promotion opportunities<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Increased national and international awareness<\/strong> of the destination.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_large\"><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Features of the certification scheme<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div>[vc_icon type=&#8221;material&#8221; icon_material=&#8221;vc-material vc-material-expand_more&#8221; color=&#8221;custom&#8221; size=&#8221;xl&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; custom_color=&#8221;#46accc&#8221;]<div class=\"g-cols wpb_row  type_default valign_top vc_inner\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-2 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-8 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">1<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Inspiration model<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">The certification scheme for ecotourism destinations is based on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gstcouncil.org\/gstc-criteria\/gstc-destination-criteria\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Global Standard for Sustainable Tourism (GSTC)<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/destinet.eu\/who-who\/civil-society-ngos\/european-ecotourism-network\/resources\/e-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">European Ecotourism Certification Standard (EETLS)<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-2 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div>[vc_icon type=&#8221;material&#8221; icon_material=&#8221;vc-material vc-material-expand_more&#8221; color=&#8221;custom&#8221; size=&#8221;xl&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; custom_color=&#8221;#46accc&#8221;]<div class=\"g-cols wpb_row  type_default valign_top vc_inner\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-2 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-8 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">2<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Categories of criteria<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The certification system includes a total of 94 criteria grouped into 5 categories, as set out in <a href=\"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/Document\/Criterii-evaluare-destinatii-ecoturistice.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Annexes 11 and 12<\/a> to the National Ecotourism Development Strategy \u2013 context, vision and objectives \u2013 2019\u20132029, approved by Government Decision no. 358\/2019 and amended by Government Decision no. 163\/2024.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-btn-wrapper width_auto align_center\"><a class=\"w-btn us-btn-style_4 icon_atleft\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/Document\/Criterii-evaluare-destinatii-ecoturistice.pdf\" rel=\"noopener\"><i class=\"fas fa-download\"><\/i><span class=\"w-btn-label\">Download the appendix<\/span><\/a><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Set of preconditions for an ecotourism destination<\/strong>, including attractiveness, accessibility, minimum level of tourist and public services.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-2 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>[vc_icon type=&#8221;material&#8221; icon_material=&#8221;vc-material vc-material-expand_more&#8221; color=&#8221;custom&#8221; size=&#8221;xl&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; custom_color=&#8221;#46accc&#8221;]<div class=\"w-tabs style_default switch_click accordion has_scrolling title_atleft icon_chevron iconpos_right\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections\"><div class=\"w-tabs-sections-h\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"1647763108969-81f06b6c-f486\"><button aria-controls=\"content-1647763108969-81f06b6c-f486\" class=\"w-tabs-section-header\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-header-h\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">A. Sustainable management<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/div><\/button><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-1647763108969-81f06b6c-f486\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p>This group of criteria refers to the sustainable management of an ecotourism destination.<\/p>\n<p>It applies to various aspects of the management system of an ecotourism destination and requires the implementation of a sustainable long-term plan and compliance with all relevant national and local regulations and legislation. Special attention is given to regular information of staff on their role in the management of the ecotourism destination.<\/p>\n<p>This set of criteria emphasizes the importance of tourist satisfaction and includes specific measures leading to corrective management actions to ensure quality services. Special attention is given to responsible marketing.<\/p>\n<p>Building and infrastructure design plays a central role in the efficient management of resources at the destination level. The criteria specify that local zoning, protected natural areas and landscape should be respected within the destination and that sustainable materials and practices should be used in the design of buildings and infrastructure (e.g., use of traditional materials in the architecture of buildings and infrastructure).<\/p>\n<p>Group A of criteria includes a specific criterion for interpretation, ensuring that the natural environment and cultural heritage are properly informed and interpreted.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"1647763809236-e2780550-ccfb\"><button aria-controls=\"content-1647763809236-e2780550-ccfb\" class=\"w-tabs-section-header\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-header-h\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">B. Maximising social and economic benefits for local communities<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/div><\/button><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-1647763809236-e2780550-ccfb\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p>Criterion group B addresses a fundamental principle of ecotourism, namely maximizing the social and economic benefits for local communities and minimizing the negative impacts of destination development. In practice, this has been a real challenge for many tourist destinations in Europe. Certain criteria are proposed which aim to stimulate actions to maximize local community benefits arising from ecotourism operations and the inflow of tourists to the destination. For example, it is recommended to support initiatives for social and infrastructure development, so that both the local community will benefit from an improved standard of living and tourists will enjoy a comfortable stay, while respecting the measures required by the management plan and the regulation of the protected natural area, which aim to maintain natural and cultural values.<\/p>\n<p>As regards the local economy, several initiatives are needed to support economic diversification and employment growth. Such actions include engaging local people in tourism activities, thus providing job opportunities for well-qualified young people and the chance to stay in their communities.<\/p>\n<p>In addition to directly supporting the local workforce, local entrepreneurs should be offered the opportunity to sell their traditional and\/or certified\/certified organic products, considering the traditions and crafts subscribed to the area, as required by the legislation in force.<\/p>\n<p>The criteria of this group also highlight another need: on-the-job training and personal development. This can be achieved through continuous learning and stimulating employees to acquire new skills.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"1647763109006-9322f62a-9b8d\"><button aria-controls=\"content-1647763109006-9322f62a-9b8d\" class=\"w-tabs-section-header\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-header-h\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">C. Maximising benefits for cultural heritage and minimising negative impacts<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/div><\/button><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-1647763109006-9322f62a-9b8d\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p>Criterion Group C refers to the cultural heritage present in each destination, referring to actions\/measures that aim to maximize the positive effects of ecotourism and minimize the negative ones. This is very important as cultural and natural heritage are the main ingredients of the ecotourism product. Cultural heritage is a collection of resources inherited from the past that people identify, independently of their owner, as a reflection and expression of their evolving values, beliefs, knowledge, and traditions. It includes all aspects of the natural environment resulting from the interaction between people and places over time. (Framework Convention on the Value of Cultural Heritage for Society, Faro, 2005) Tangible and intangible aspects are considered, such as historical monuments (archaeological and architectural monuments, ensembles and sites, public monuments, memorials), museums and public collections, traditional events, and crafts, etc.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section\" id=\"1647763751779-57549731-7153\"><button aria-controls=\"content-1647763751779-57549731-7153\" class=\"w-tabs-section-header\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-header-h\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-title\">D. Maximising environmental benefits and minimising negative impacts<\/div><div class=\"w-tabs-section-control\"><\/div><\/div><\/button><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content\" id=\"content-1647763751779-57549731-7153\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><div class=\"w-tabs-section-content-h i-cf\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><p>Criterion Group D refers to maximizing the benefits and minimizing the negative impacts of tourism activities on the environment. Ecotourism activities take place in protected natural areas and thus the protection of the natural environment is very important. The implementation of a green procurement plan favoring environmentally friendly products (building materials, food, consumables) will contribute to the protection of nature and the rational use of natural resources.<\/p>\n<p>Also, making energy and water consumption more efficient and investing in renewable energies can bring economic benefits to tourism operators and increase the competitiveness of the destination. The implementation of a waste management plan monitors the reduction and proper treatment of wastewater, solid waste, and harmful substances (such as cleaning products, pesticides, and other pollutants) in order to protect fauna and flora and keep soil, air, and water clean.<\/p>\n<p>To protect wildlife, the interaction between tourists and wilderness areas must be carried out in a regulated and responsible way. Captive wildlife is only allowed in rehabilitation centers or zoos, in accordance with existing legislation. Protected wildlife shall be treated with respect and products or decorative items that are made from raw materials from strictly protected wildlife species are not recommended. In landscaping outdoor areas in the vicinity of tourist facilities, the use of local flora species is recommended.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row  type_default valign_top vc_inner\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-2 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-8 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">3<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Evaluation procedure<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li>Pre-evaluation stage &#8211; The applicant prepares documentation based on all criteria and submits it to the <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ministry of Economy, Digitalisation, Entrepreneurship and Tourism<\/span>, detailing how each criterion is fulfilled. At this stage, the Evaluation Committee will review the documentation and decide whether the conditions are met to enter the next evaluation stage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li>On-the-spot evaluation stage &#8211; Members of the Evaluation Committee will make a field trip to the destination to verify on the spot that the criteria have been met. Following this process, a decision will be taken whether to recognize the area as an ecotourism destination.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The detailed procedure is published on the website of the <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ministry of Economy, Digitalisation, Entrepreneurship and Tourism<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>The evaluation commission has 5 members, two representatives from the <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ministry of Economy, Digitalisation, Entrepreneurship and Tourism<\/span> and one each from the Ministry of Environment, Water and Forests, the National Institute for Research and Development in Tourism and the Association of Ecotourism in Romania (AER).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-2 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>[vc_icon type=&#8221;material&#8221; icon_material=&#8221;vc-material vc-material-expand_more&#8221; color=&#8221;custom&#8221; size=&#8221;xl&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; custom_color=&#8221;#46accc&#8221;]<div class=\"g-cols wpb_row  type_default valign_top vc_inner\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-2 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-8 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">4<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><b>Validity<\/b><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">Ecotourism destination status may be obtained for a maximum period of three years, which may be extended at the applicant&#8217;s request.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-2 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_large with_line width_30 thick_1 style_solid color_primary align_center\"><div class=\"w-separator-h\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row  type_default valign_top vc_inner\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-12 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h3><strong>Current situation of destinations:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_medium\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"g-cols wpb_row  type_default valign_top vc_inner\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h4><strong>Certified destinations since 2014:<\/strong><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/en\/eco-destinations\/zarnesti-piatra-craiului\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Z\u0103rne\u0219ti &#8211; Piatra Craiului<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/en\/eco-destinations\/eco-maramures\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eco Maramure\u0219<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/en\/eco-destinations\/bison-land\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bison Land<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/en\/eco-destinations\/tara-hategului-retezat\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u021aara Ha\u021begului<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/eco-destinatii\/tara-dornelor\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u021aara Dornelor<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/en\/eco-destinations\/transylvanian-highlands\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transylvanian Highlands<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"m_1119679977120924967MsoListParagraph\"><span lang=\"RO\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/en\/eco-destinations\/baile-tusnad-and-surroundings\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">B\u0103ile Tu\u0219nad and Surroundings<\/a><u><\/u><u><\/u><\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m_1119679977120924967MsoListParagraph\"><span lang=\"RO\">Vama Buz\u0103ului, Bra\u0219ov county<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h4><strong>Destinations with valid certificates:<\/strong><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/en\/eco-destinations\/tara-dornelor\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u021aara Dornelor<\/a> (until 2026)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/en\/eco-destinations\/tara-hategului-retezat\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u021aara Ha\u021begului<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0(until 2027)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/en\/eco-destinations\/eco-maramures\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eco Maramure\u0219<\/span><\/a> (until 2026)<\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/en\/eco-destinations\/baile-tusnad-and-surroundings\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">B\u0103ile Tu\u0219nad and Surroundings<\/a> (until 2026)<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eco-romania.ro\/en\/eco-destinations\/bison-land\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bison Land<\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(until 2028)<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m_1119679977120924967MsoListParagraph\"><span lang=\"RO\">Vama Buz\u0103ului, Bra\u0219ov county (until 2026)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section><section class=\"l-section wpb_row us_custom_12cb78c8 height_medium\"><div class=\"l-section-h i-cf\"><div class=\"g-cols vc_row type_default valign_top\"><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"wpb_text_column\" ><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><h2>Certified Products<\/h2>\n<p>The Ecotourism Certification System was created to ensure the conservation of nature and the sustainable development of local communities through tourism. Choose Eco-Romania certified services for a special vacation, responsible towards people and nature!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"w-separator size_small\"><\/div><div class=\"w-btn-wrapper width_auto align_left\"><a class=\"w-btn us-btn-style_2\" href=\"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certified-products\/\"><span class=\"w-btn-label\">See the list<\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"vc_col-sm-6 wpb_column vc_column_container\"><div class=\"vc_column-inner\"><div class=\"wpb_wrapper\"><div class=\"w-image align_none\"><div class=\"w-image-h\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2100\" height=\"1400\" src=\"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Certificat-aer-e1661242504196.png\" class=\"attachment-full size-full\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations The certification scheme recognizes the efforts to develop an ecotourism destination and allows local public authorities to be involved, together with protected area administrations and the business community, in the process. History of the development of the certification scheme for ecotourism destinations in Romania In 2005-2007, AER develops the first...","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":2808,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4798","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"aioseo_notices":[],"aioseo_head":"\n\t\t<!-- All in One SEO 4.9.10 - aioseo.com -->\n\t<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations The certification scheme recognizes the efforts to develop an ecotourism destination and allows local public authorities to be involved, together with protected area administrations and the business community, in the process. History of the development of the certification scheme for ecotourism destinations in Romania In 2005-2007, AER develops the first\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"max-image-preview:large\" \/>\n\t<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"generator\" content=\"All in One SEO (AIOSEO) 4.9.10\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Asocia\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\u00e2nia - Conservarea naturii \u0219i dezvoltarea turismului \u00een Rom\u00e2nia\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations - Asocia\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\u00e2nia\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations The certification scheme recognizes the efforts to develop an ecotourism destination and allows local public authorities to be involved, together with protected area administrations and the business community, in the process. History of the development of the certification scheme for ecotourism destinations in Romania In 2005-2007, AER develops the first\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2023-05-02T10:10:59+00:00\" \/>\n\t\t<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-05-05T10:54:17+00:00\" \/>\n\t\t<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n\t\t<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations - Asocia\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\u00e2nia\" \/>\n\t\t<meta name=\"twitter:description\" content=\"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations The certification scheme recognizes the efforts to develop an ecotourism destination and allows local public authorities to be involved, together with protected area administrations and the business community, in the process. History of the development of the certification scheme for ecotourism destinations in Romania In 2005-2007, AER develops the first\" \/>\n\t\t<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"aioseo-schema\">\n\t\t\t{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\\\/#breadcrumblist\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/#listItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/\",\"nextItem\":{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\\\/#listItem\",\"name\":\"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations\"}},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\\\/#listItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations\",\"previousItem\":{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/#listItem\",\"name\":\"Home\"}}]},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Asocia\\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\\u00e2nia\",\"description\":\"Conservarea naturii \\u0219i dezvoltarea turismului \\u00een Rom\\u00e2nia\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\\\/#webpage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\\\/\",\"name\":\"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations - Asocia\\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\\u00e2nia\",\"description\":\"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations The certification scheme recognizes the efforts to develop an ecotourism destination and allows local public authorities to be involved, together with protected area administrations and the business community, in the process. History of the development of the certification scheme for ecotourism destinations in Romania In 2005-2007, AER develops the first\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/#website\"},\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\\\/#breadcrumblist\"},\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/10\\\/mediamodifier_image-4-e1677448415354.png\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\\\/#mainImage\",\"width\":2300,\"height\":1533},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\\\/#mainImage\"},\"datePublished\":\"2023-05-02T13:10:59+03:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-05T13:54:17+03:00\"},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/\",\"name\":\"Asocia\\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\\u00e2nia\",\"description\":\"Conservarea naturii \\u0219i dezvoltarea turismului \\u00een Rom\\u00e2nia\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/asociatiaaer.ro\\\/en\\\/#organization\"}}]}\n\t\t<\/script>\n\t\t<!-- All in One SEO -->\n\n","aioseo_head_json":{"title":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations - Asocia\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\u00e2nia","description":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations The certification scheme recognizes the efforts to develop an ecotourism destination and allows local public authorities to be involved, together with protected area administrations and the business community, in the process. History of the development of the certification scheme for ecotourism destinations in Romania In 2005-2007, AER develops the first","canonical_url":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/","robots":"max-image-preview:large","keywords":"","webmasterTools":{"miscellaneous":""},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/#breadcrumblist","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/#listItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/","nextItem":{"@type":"ListItem","@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/#listItem","name":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations"}},{"@type":"ListItem","@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/#listItem","position":2,"name":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations","previousItem":{"@type":"ListItem","@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/#listItem","name":"Home"}}]},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/#organization","name":"Asocia\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\u00e2nia","description":"Conservarea naturii \u0219i dezvoltarea turismului \u00een Rom\u00e2nia","url":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/#webpage","url":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/","name":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations - Asocia\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\u00e2nia","description":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations The certification scheme recognizes the efforts to develop an ecotourism destination and allows local public authorities to be involved, together with protected area administrations and the business community, in the process. History of the development of the certification scheme for ecotourism destinations in Romania In 2005-2007, AER develops the first","inLanguage":"en-US","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/#website"},"breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/#breadcrumblist"},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/mediamodifier_image-4-e1677448415354.png","@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/#mainImage","width":2300,"height":1533},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/#mainImage"},"datePublished":"2023-05-02T13:10:59+03:00","dateModified":"2026-05-05T13:54:17+03:00"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/#website","url":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/","name":"Asocia\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\u00e2nia","description":"Conservarea naturii \u0219i dezvoltarea turismului \u00een Rom\u00e2nia","inLanguage":"en-US","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/#organization"}}]},"og:locale":"en_US","og:site_name":"Asocia\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\u00e2nia - Conservarea naturii \u0219i dezvoltarea turismului \u00een Rom\u00e2nia","og:type":"article","og:title":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations - Asocia\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\u00e2nia","og:description":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations The certification scheme recognizes the efforts to develop an ecotourism destination and allows local public authorities to be involved, together with protected area administrations and the business community, in the process. History of the development of the certification scheme for ecotourism destinations in Romania In 2005-2007, AER develops the first","og:url":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/","article:published_time":"2023-05-02T10:10:59+00:00","article:modified_time":"2026-05-05T10:54:17+00:00","twitter:card":"summary_large_image","twitter:title":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations - Asocia\u021bia de Ecoturism din Rom\u00e2nia","twitter:description":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations The certification scheme recognizes the efforts to develop an ecotourism destination and allows local public authorities to be involved, together with protected area administrations and the business community, in the process. History of the development of the certification scheme for ecotourism destinations in Romania In 2005-2007, AER develops the first"},"aioseo_meta_data":{"post_id":"4798","title":null,"description":null,"keywords":null,"keyphrases":{"focus":{"keyphrase":"","score":0,"analysis":{"keyphraseInTitle":{"score":0,"maxScore":9,"error":1}}},"additional":[]},"primary_term":null,"canonical_url":null,"og_title":null,"og_description":null,"og_object_type":"default","og_image_type":"default","og_image_url":null,"og_image_width":null,"og_image_height":null,"og_image_custom_url":null,"og_image_custom_fields":null,"og_video":"","og_custom_url":null,"og_article_section":null,"og_article_tags":null,"twitter_use_og":false,"twitter_card":"default","twitter_image_type":"default","twitter_image_url":null,"twitter_image_custom_url":null,"twitter_image_custom_fields":null,"twitter_title":null,"twitter_description":null,"schema":{"blockGraphs":[],"customGraphs":[],"default":{"data":{"Article":[],"Course":[],"Dataset":[],"FAQPage":[],"Movie":[],"Person":[],"Product":[],"ProductReview":[],"Car":[],"Recipe":[],"Service":[],"SoftwareApplication":[],"WebPage":[]},"graphName":"WebPage","isEnabled":true},"graphs":[]},"schema_type":"default","schema_type_options":null,"pillar_content":false,"robots_default":true,"robots_noindex":false,"robots_noarchive":false,"robots_nosnippet":false,"robots_nofollow":false,"robots_noimageindex":false,"robots_noodp":false,"robots_notranslate":false,"robots_max_snippet":"-1","robots_max_videopreview":"-1","robots_max_imagepreview":"large","priority":null,"frequency":"default","local_seo":null,"breadcrumb_settings":null,"limit_modified_date":false,"ai":{"faqs":[],"keyPoints":[],"schemas":[],"titles":[],"descriptions":[],"socialPosts":{"email":[],"linkedin":[],"twitter":[],"facebook":[],"instagram":[]}},"created":"2023-06-18 04:04:22","updated":"2026-05-05 11:28:36","seo_analyzer_scan_date":null},"aioseo_breadcrumb":"<div class=\"aioseo-breadcrumbs\"><span class=\"aioseo-breadcrumb\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/\" title=\"Home\">Home<\/a>\n\t\t<\/span><span class=\"aioseo-breadcrumb-separator\">&raquo;<\/span><span class=\"aioseo-breadcrumb\">\n\t\t\tCertification scheme for ecotourism destinations\n\t\t<\/span><\/div>","aioseo_breadcrumb_json":[{"label":"Home","link":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/"},{"label":"Certification scheme for ecotourism destinations","link":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/certification-scheme-for-ecotourism-destinations\/"}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4798","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4798"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4798\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7567,"href":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4798\/revisions\/7567"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2808"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/asociatiaaer.ro\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4798"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}