From ISO 14001 to the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism: Our Environmental Journey
Travelers today want proof that a destination protects the places they love. From ISO 14001 to the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism, our path shows how verified commitments translate into better stays—cleaner operations, thoughtful experiences, and a culture of continuous improvement you can feel from check‑in to check‑out.
In this article, you’ll learn what ISO 14001 means at a campsite, why the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism matters to guests, and how a series of milestones—spanning 1999 to 2018—shape your experience at Camping Les Medes.
A timeline of trust: certifications and recognitions
Below is a concise view of the milestones that anchor our environmental and service commitments.
| Year | Milestone at Camping Les Medes | Why it matters for you |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Tourist Diploma of the Government of Catalonia | Early recognition of quality in regional tourism |
| 1999–2000 | Participation in an environment pilot scheme; ISO 14001:2004 environmental management certification achieved in 2000, making us pioneers in Europe | A structured, audited system to manage and reduce environmental impact |
| 2003 | ISO 9001:2000 quality management certification; Environmental Quality Guarantee Emblem (Government of Catalonia) | Consistent service quality aligned with environmental assurance |
| 2012 | EUROTOP campsite (Dutch ANWB Association) | Independent recognition valued by European campers |
| 2013 | SUPERPLATZ (German ADAC Association) | Top‑tier standing in a leading European campground guide |
| 2016 | Ranked second‑best European campsite in a CARAVANING magazine analysis of SUPERPLATZ sites and user ratings | Reinforces a high‑quality guest experience |
| 2018 | Part of the ECST (European Charter of Sustainable Tourism), a EUROPARC project, with local companies and agents | Destination‑level stewardship and collaboration for sustainability |
Why ISO 14001 mattered—then and now
What is ISO 14001?
ISO 14001 is an internationally recognized standard for environmental management systems (EMS). In practical terms, it helps organizations:
- Identify and manage environmental impacts across operations
- Set objectives and processes for continual improvement
- Align with applicable environmental obligations
- Monitor, measure, and audit performance over time
Our ISO 14001 milestone
- In 1999, we joined a pilot scheme led by the Catalan Department of the Environment and the Federation of Campsites.
- In 2000, we achieved the ISO 14001:2004 environmental management certification, making us pioneers in this area in Europe.
What this means for your stay: a campsite run with a plan—clear procedures, routine checks, and improvements that reduce impact while maintaining comfort.
Beyond compliance: building a culture of quality and care
Quality systems that support sustainability
In 2003, our quality management system was certified under ISO 9001:2000, and we obtained the Government of Catalonia’s Environmental Quality Guarantee Emblem. Quality and environment go hand in hand: consistent processes reduce waste, minimize errors, and channel resources into what guests value most.
Upgrades with guests—and the environment—in mind
Continuous improvement is part of our DNA. Over the years we have:
- Built a new swimming pool (1987)
- Added a second bathroom block (1989)
- Inaugurated a heated swimming pool (1996)
- Transformed the former caravan park into a multi‑sport zone for tennis, beach volleyball, basketball, and five‑a‑side football (2003)
These enhancements reflect a long‑term approach: invest in durable infrastructure, diversify low‑impact on‑site activities, and optimize comfort without compromising our surroundings.
Recognitions guests can trust
Industry badges are most useful when they signal the experience you can expect on arrival. We’re proud to be:
- A EUROTOP campsite according to the Dutch ANWB Association since 2012
- A SUPERPLATZ according to the German ADAC Association since 2013
- Listed as the second‑best European campsite in 2016 in a CARAVANING magazine analysis of SUPERPLATZ campsites and user ratings on social networks
For guests, these independent recognitions reinforce day‑to‑day realities: well‑kept facilities, attentive service, and a consistent standard that frequent travelers appreciate.
Enter the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism (ECST)
What is the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism?
The European Charter for Sustainable Tourism is a EUROPARC initiative that brings destinations, local companies, and community stakeholders together to make tourism more sustainable. It emphasizes planning, collaboration, and continuous improvement so visitors and nature both benefit.
Our commitment since 2018
Since 2018, we have been part of the ECST, working alongside other local companies and agents so our destination becomes a point of reference in sustainability. This shifts sustainability from a single site to a shared, area‑wide commitment—aligning how we welcome guests with how our region protects its natural and cultural assets.
What this means for your stay
- Joined‑up experiences: Activities and services designed in harmony with local priorities
- Place stewardship: Tourism that supports, not strains, the destination you’ve come to enjoy
- Clarity and consistency: Goals and actions communicated transparently across partners
Quick answers for eco‑minded travelers
What is ISO 14001 in simple terms?
ISO 14001 is a global standard that helps organizations manage and reduce their environmental impact through a structured, audited system.
What is the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism?
It’s a EUROPARC framework that unites destinations and local stakeholders to plan and deliver more sustainable tourism for people and nature.
Practical ways to travel more sustainably with us
You can amplify the impact of our certifications with a few easy habits:
- Conserve water and energy: Take shorter showers and switch off lights and appliances when not in use.
- Reduce and sort waste: Choose reusable bottles and bags, and separate recyclables correctly.
- Choose low‑impact mobility: Walk or cycle for nearby errands and activities when possible.
- Respect local guidelines: Follow posted advice for facilities and natural areas so wildlife and habitats remain undisturbed.
- Support local producers: Opt for regional food and crafts to keep benefits within the community.
- Plan activities mindfully: Prefer experiences that align with nature‑friendly practices.
Connect the dots: where to learn more on our site
- Review our Environmental Policy to see the principles behind our day‑to‑day actions.
- Explore the Surroundings to discover what makes our destination special.
- Browse the Photo Gallery for a feel of the on‑site experience.
- Check Rates and How to get here to plan your visit efficiently.
Conclusion: certifications that shape better stays
From ISO 14001 to the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism, our environmental journey is more than a timeline—it’s the operating system behind every stay at Camping Les Medes. Independent standards, regional collaboration, and a steady stream of improvements ensure your holiday is comfortable, consistent, and kinder to the place you’ve come to enjoy.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Explore our Environmental Policy, plan your trip, and book your stay. For questions, contact us at +34 972 75 18 05 or info@campinglesmedes.com.