Ecovante Certification™ Standards
What every Project Partner is assessed against. Each of our three pillars sets one standard. Each standard is broken into elements, and each element is measured by specific benchmarks — 26 in all.
The three pillars
Each dot is one benchmark
Trust & Transparency
6 elements · 10 benchmarks
Standard: “Our impact travel partners trust our organization.”
- Mission and vision1 benchmark
- Legal structure1 benchmark
- Communication2 benchmarks
- Staffing3 benchmarks
- Finances2 benchmarks
- Hosting experience1 benchmark
Impact & Engagement
4 elements · 4 benchmarks
Standard: “Our impact travelers engage with the local community, culture, and natural environment in ways that create long-lasting positive impacts and learning experiences for everyone involved.”
- Environmental sustainability1 benchmark
- Cultural engagement and awareness1 benchmark
- Local community engagement1 benchmark
- Meaningful impact1 benchmark
Health & Safety
7 elements · 12 benchmarks
Standard: “Our impact travelers have safe and healthy experiences.”
- Risk assessment and emergency response3 benchmarks
- Healthcare and first aid2 benchmarks
- Food and water3 benchmarks
- Accommodation1 benchmark
- Cultural sensitivity1 benchmark
- Safeguarding and child protection1 benchmark
- Data protection1 benchmark
How each benchmark is rated
Every benchmark is assessed on the same five-level scale, from no evidence yet to being able to train others.
Not yet
No evidence
Approaching
Discussions and planning
Committed
Documentation and training
Practitioner
Implementation and experience
Certification goal
Model Advisor
Able to train others
How to earn certification
We guide every Project Partner to the Practitioner level, where practices are implemented and proven in experience. Wherever your project is today, we welcome you to connect with us.
Evidence comes from surveys, documentation, interviews with staff and travelers, and a site visit. How certification works
Free
Certification is free for every eligible Project Partner.
Our short survey takes 5–10 minutes and shows how eligible your project is today. Everyone who completes it is invited to talk with a member of our team.

