Abstract

The ongoing importance of the tourism and hospitality small business sector to the
economic wellbeing ofa country has been widely acknowledged internationally, Such
businesses are important contributors to the environmental,. social and cultural
sustainability of their regions, There is growing pressure for such businesses to
pursue sustainable development principles, commonly perceived by the owners to
elevate costs and reduce competitiveness. In this review paper we consider the
benefits for small businesses in the tourism and hospitality industry to gain ecoaccreditation.
We conclude that, despite a large number of such schemes, market
awareness is typically low but has potential to provide a competitive edge. Small
business operators who choose to lead in eco-accreditation would, however, be wise
to ensure that they clearly articulate their scheme to potential customers, and target
consumers from countries where interest in s[{ch schemes is highest.