GDS-Index Lite and the GDS-Index share the same goal, to help destinations become more sustainable, regenerative, and resilient, but they differ in depth, purpose, and process. GDSIndex Lite is a learning pathway, where GDS-Index is a performance pathway.
GDS-Index Lite is a capacity-building and self-assessment programme designed to help destinations begin their sustainability journey. It focuses on learning, preparedness, and building internal capability.
The GDS-Index, on the other hand, is a comprehensive benchmarking and performance improvement programme for destinations with established sustainability contributions, and data. It emphasises accountability, third-party benchmarking, and international visibility.
While GDS-Index Lite uses 30 indicators 10 of these optional) for a simplified self-assessment, the GDS-Index includes more than 76 indicators across all categories and is independently assessed and verified by GDS-Movement changemakers.
Both use indicators from the same source. The 30 GDS-Index Lite indicators are directly sourced from the official GDS-Index criteria, without adaptation, ensuing full alignment with the methodology and global sustainability frameworks.
To learn more about how these indicators are developed and reviewed annually, see “What is the GDS-Index methodology?” in the GDS-Index FAQ section.
Results from GDS-Index Lite remain private, focusing on learning and progress. By contrast, GDS-Index results are published annually, with destinations featured in the public Top 40 ranking and the annual insights report.
