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Hawaii Ecotourism Association's

Peer Review Process

In order to award and recognize companies for their commitment to sustainable travel, and provide an means for customers to differentiate themselves as true ecotour operators,  the Hawaii Ecotourism Association developed and introduced its Peer Review Process in 2006.

The Review committee is made up of three current members of the HEA Board of Directors or the HEA Advisory Board  and conducts the review based on four main areas:
  • Environmental Conservation
  • Cultural and Historical stewardship
  • Contributions to Local Community
  • Education and Training
REVIEWEDlogo_1.gifCompanies who pass the review are recognized by the Hawaii Ecotourism Association for two years, provided with a “Reviewed” seal to use on company marketing materials, and are automatically entered for the HEA Ecotour Operator of the Year Award. 

Companies who do not pass the review are provided with a short list of recommended improvements and are invited to reapply six months later for half the normal application fee.  This process is intended to be a learning experience and self-assessment for companies who must reapply.  Provided that operators implement the recommended improvements, in a verifiable fashion, then they can pass the review upon reapplication.

Over the past 3 years, more and more members have volunteered to go through the review process. Reviews are conducted every other month, operators who pass the review are expected to maintain their commitment to and practice of sustainable travel for the following two years; at which point the HEA Review Committee will review the company’s renewal application.

Please note that this is not a full certification process, however it is a first step in that direction.  Reviewed Ecotourism Provider signifies that we have reviewed the company's practices to meet our standards of a sound and "true" ecotourism provider.

Click here to download the application HEA_Review_Applicant.pdf
or for more information contact us@ admin@hawaiiecotourism.org

 

 
 

      Hawaii Ecotourism Association
      P. O Box 61796
      Honolulu, HI  96839
Experience adventure through activities in Hawaii's unique environment & culture.