Green Key (FEE) and ATTA announce partnership to promote sustainable travel practices

ATTA and FEE have created a Memorandum of Understanding with the goal of jointly promoting sustainability awareness, fostering practical implementation, encouraging community engagement, and activating market participation among the members of both organisations. This collaboration will benefit the members of ATTA and FEE (Green Key and Blue Flag programmes), while aiming to build more sustainable destinations and companies.

““The collaboration between ATTA and FEE will lead to the development of more resilient and eco-friendly travel destinations and continue setting a high standard for the industry.””

— Daniel Schaffer, Chief Executive Officer of FEE

By leveraging each other's strengths and resources, this partnership will enhance the visibility and impact of sustainability initiatives. It will provide a robust framework for members to adopt and showcase best practices in environmental stewardship. Additionally, it will facilitate deeper community involvement, encouraging local populations to actively participate in sustainability efforts. This concerted approach is expected to drive market activation, creating a competitive edge for businesses that prioritise sustainable practices. 

According to Shannon Stowell, CEO of ATTA, "Sustainability is no longer an option; it is a necessity for the future of travel. This partnership between ATTA and FEE represents a significant step toward equipping more destinations and businesses with the tools and knowledge to implement meaningful change. By working together, we can create a more responsible and resilient tourism industry that benefits communities, protects our planet, and enhances the traveler experience."

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About Foundation for Environmental Education

The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) is one of the world’s largest Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) organisations, with over 100 member organisations in 81 countries. With a network of over 50,000 educational institutions, the Eco-Schools, Learning About Ecosystems and Forests and Young Reporters for the Environment programmes empower young people to create an environmentally conscious world through experiential, project-based learning. The Green Key and Blue Flag programmes are globally recognised for promoting sustainable business practices and the protection of natural resources. With over 40 years of impactful experience in ESD, FEE’s strategic plan, GAIA 20:30, prioritises impactful action across all five programmes to address the threats of climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution. 

About the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA)

The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), established in 1990, is the largest global network of adventure travel leaders with around 30,000 individual guides, tour operators, lodges, travel advisors, tourism boards, destination marketing and management organisations, outdoor educators, gear companies and travel media who share a belief and commitment to sustainable tourism. ATTA’s mission is to empower the global travel community to protect natural and cultural capital while creating economic value that benefits both trade members and destinations. ATTA offers a portfolio of strategic solutions and a robust ecosystem of events around the world. ATTA has specialised expertise in research, education, media, and promotion.

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Six Marriott International hotels receive Green Key certification in Mexico

On 29 January, Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort in Los Cabos, received Green Key certification. Additionally, on 6 February, four more hotels—Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta, The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort, and Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center in Puerto Vallarta—were awarded the certification, bringing the total to six Marriott International hotels in the programme. With these additions, Mexico now has 248 certified hotels.

The hotels have implemented measures focused on the sustainable use of water and energy, as well as proper waste management. Thanks to these actions, they comply with the Green Key International criteria and demonstrate their commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN 2030 Agenda.

Among the numerous good practices promoted, the following stand out:

• Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort in Los Cabos, has a composting project that has produced 351 kg of compost, which is used as organic fertiliser for the soil and green areas.

• Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa has maintained an orchard for five years, using the harvested fruit in its restaurant to ensure zero-kilometre sourcing.

• The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta, Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, and Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center simultaneously implement the Blue Flag programme to keep their beaches clean and ensure proper environmental management for their preservation.

These hotels follow in the footsteps of Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center, the first Green Key-certified hotel in Mexico. For more than 10 years, this site has continuously worked to meet the certification scheme’s requirements and was also a pioneer in obtaining both Green Key and Blue Flag certifications in the country.

A sincere thank you to Green Key Mexico for its leadership in overseeing the programme at a national level and for its dedicated coordination with Green Key-certified establishments, culminating in the successful achievement of 248 certified establishments as of February 2025.

Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan Becomes Armenia's First Green Key Certified Establishment

On 20 December,2024, the Armenia Marriott Hotel Yerevan achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Green Key-certified establishment in Armenia.  

This achievement not only marks a significant step forward for the hotel itself but also represents an important moment for Armenia’s tourism sector as it embraces sustainability. 

The certification ceremony was attended by notable guests, including H.E. Ambassador Eric de Muynck, Ambassador of Belgium; Mrs. Sabina Nováková, First Secretary andDeputy Head of Mission of the Czech Embassy; and representatives from the Ministry of Economy, the United Nations, the Armenian Hotel Association and other distinguished guest. Their presence highlighted the importance of this accomplishment for Armenia and the international recognition Green Key certification brings. 

The process has been coordinated by Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Development of Communities (ISSD) NGO, the National Operator of Green Key program in Armenia. ISSD’s work ensures that more Armenian businesses can become part of this global movement for sustainability. Together with ISSD, we work to create a greener future for the country.  As several other hotels in Armenia are undergoing the certification process while others are planning to, 2025 might be a very promising year for the sustainable path of Armenia's hospitality industry  

The ISSD’s primary goal is to encourage the adoption of eco-friendly practices among accommodation providers in Armenia's Lori, Tavush, Shirak, and Gegharkunik regions. Through a series of targeted activities, the ISSD sets clear objectives to drive change. Some of the main activities include:  

• providing training of local professionals,  

• developing sustainability plans,  

• implementing awareness raising campaigns,  

• developing case studies. 

ISSD encourages a broader shift towards sustainability; by combining environmental responsibility with financial benefits, they aim to boost business opportunities for hospitality service providers, positioning Armenia as a leading green travel destination. 

Penta Hotels ends year in sustainable style as all German properties earn Green Key certification

Penta Hotels has taken a significant step on its sustainability journey, with all of its German properties now proudly holding Green Key certification as of December 2024.

The brand’s properties in Brussels, Liège, and Leuven had earned Green Key certification in recent years, and now all hotels in Germany have followed suit, marking a major milestone in Penta Hotels’ ongoing efforts to achieve certifications for all its properties.

"We are delighted that all German Penta Hotels now bear the Green Key certification. This demonstrates that our sustainability actions and measures are bearing fruit and that we’re on the right track." said Kim Jasmin Junge, Property Coordinator at Penta Hotels, and leader for sustainability issues within the company.

"We’re working towards obtaining Green Key certificates for all our hotels, with the process already underway at the properties in Reading and Prague, as well as working on other further measures to promote sustainability," she added.

Since 2023, Penta Hotels has partnered with Too Good To Go to reduce food waste. Additionally, through a collaboration with Recup, the hotel chain offers sustainable, reusable bowls and cups for take-out orders. All Penta hotels have plastic-free breakfasts as standard, and have removed all disposable items from bathrooms, so that water, electricity, and waste consumption are carefully monitored.

In 2023, Penta Hotels launched a successful tree-planting partnership contributing to the planting of 2,200 trees in that year alone. In other efforts, the company also captured attention with its Earth Day 2024 campaign, where plastic waste was displayed as a pseudo-art installation in the hotel lobbies to raise awareness about the global plastic waste crisis amongst its guests.

About Penta Hotels

Penta® represents a new generation of lively neighbourhood hotels offering modern-minded individuals and business travellers' comfort and style in a relaxed atmosphere. Known for its unique interior design and attitude, the brand stands for true innovation in the industry’s upper-midscale segment. The hallmark of the hotel chain is the Pentalounge – a combination of lounge, bar, café and reception – that stands out with its "living room" look and feel. For further information, please visit www.pentahotels.com and follow @pentahotels on Instagram.

Statement on Green Key's status - 2025 and beyond

The current Green Key standard (criteria and explanatory notes) took effect on 1 January 2022 and has been internationally recognised. This Green Key standard is expected to remain in force until 31 December 2026.

The certification process includes third-party verification, conducted either by an independent auditor or a National Jury, to ensure compliance with Green Key requirements.

To meet upcoming EU directives on consumer protection and green claims, Green Key is committed to securing scheme approval from Denmark’s national accreditation body (NAB), a member of the International Accreditation Forum.

During 2025, Green Key will be updating and revising criteria and process to allow for application for scheme approval which will be submitted by 31 December 2025, with the goal of achieving approval by 31 December 2026.

Any updates to the Green Key standard and certification procedures resulting from this process will be implemented no later than 1 January 2027.

First Bulgarian restaurant to receive the Green Key award for a restaurant in Eastern Europe

An article by the Bulgarian Blue Flag Movement, FEE member in Bulgaria

When we heard for the first time at the Bulgarian Blue Flag Movement that a former school in the Bulgarian village of Devino had been transformed into what is probably the most sustainable restaurant in Eastern Europe, we simply couldn’t believe it.

As the Bulgarian full member and representative of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and its Green Key programme, the Bulgarian Blue Flag Movement has a long experience in sustainability certification. So after receiving the Dieci Boutique Restaurant’s application, we decided to check for ourselves whether this is real.

We analysed the entire business process of the restaurant according to the Green Key criteria - the world's leading eco-label for environmentally responsible tourism businesses.

Undoubtedly, the owners of Dieci, Chef Gianfranco Chiarini and Chef Anna Chiarini, have decided to turn sustainability not only into a moral thing to do, but moreover into their philosophy, lifestyle and passion.

Dieci Boutique Restaurant is blessed to be located in the heart of Bulgaria, among pristine forests that provide the game, truffles and hundreds of foraging treasures to the wonderful and innovative cuisine it offers to its guests. But it also provides its visitors with direct contact with the priceless nature of the country, which is an important requirement of the Green Key programme.

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The remodeled building gives credit to the chefs and their philosophy, where the reuse of old materials and adapting rather than demolishing is sustainable in itself. But they went further by improving the building’s energy efficiency during the renovation and were very smart in the use of reclaimed wood for the floors, organic painting materials for the walls and everything in the villa and the restaurant, from the tables to the restaurant’s food is organic and fair trade certified - in line with the Green Key criteria.

What is most exciting is how they’ve turned an old abandoned school into something exceptional, where all traditional elements have been preserved, old furniture and tools have been restored and beautifully displayed. Watch a video about the duo and the restaurant.

The owners' day begins at 6:30 in the morning, when foraging from the forests brings the best of nature to their dishes, with pure and fresh aromas and incredible flavors that are unusual to a regular palate.

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Their day continues with the vegetable garden and the fruit orchard where all the vegetables, roots, fruits and herbs are being provided to give way to the preparations for their exquisite dinners. This follows one of the guideline requirements of the Green Key.

Finally we get to the most crucial part of their sustainability philosophy. All the electricity and the water in the property is produced via photovoltaic panels (22 in total) and a deep well which goes as far as 63 meters below. All this makes Dieci, not only energy efficient, but 100% energy independent. The Green Key programme requires serious management of energy and water consumption, and Dieci has even built on this.

The cooking takes place at specific hours of the day where the use of special equipment is calculated by Kph in order to never enter the national grid and only use the flow of energy once the batteries are full. Then in the dark hours of the night the restaurant switches to batteries.

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During the entire operation of preparations and dinners, every bag, every plastic, every little material that is metal and glass are separated as they go. Any left over food is placed into an Electronic Food Composter, that turns in 10 hours all the organic food waste into a beautiful organic compost that looks like earth soil. This compost is stored in natural jute bags and afterwards used in the colder months to grow in their nursery the small plants that will be planted at the end of May in the vegetable garden.

It is important also to state that for the small plants nursery, Dieci Boutique Restaurant has its own seed bank with different species and a sort of Bulgarian tomatoes that are as old as one century. Some species were considered lost and Dieci are happy to have brought them back. These wonders are to be enjoyed in the warm months of the summer, since Dieci not only consumes and grows local, but also seasonal.

Also Dieci has its own fermentation rooms, aging rooms and beehives to produce their own organic honey 100% pure and without any sugar. All the honey is the product of direct and unaltered bee to flower pollination.

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During the entire food preparation any paper, plastic, metal or glass material is collected separately for future processing in their own recycling center, which has certainly become second nature to Gianfranco and Anna. Even for the experienced auditors of the Bulgarian Blue Flag Movement, the recycling measures seemed extremely impressive:

• the glass is being collected and crushed in a special machine, then sent for processing, with no glass being thrown away;

• the metal from aluminum packaging, cans and any other metal left-over is melted down in a special

• machine and with the melted metal Dieci makes its own unique souvenirs for its guests;

• the paper and cardboard are being shredded and left in recycled water from their rainwater collectors. The resulting material is used in a special press to make briquettes, which are utilized afterwards as organic fuel for fire in the winter.

• plastic is being shredded in a special machine, then melted into molds with the form of a brick. A new recycling center will be built from the bricks produced.

All these incredibly smart and environmentally friendly activities are open to all restaurant guests, who can witness them during the short tour before dinner. This is part of the mission of Chef Gianfranco Chiarini and Chef Anna Chiarini to inspire them and teach them what true sustainability is. At the same time, it is an important element of the Green Key programme's education for sustainable development.

It is fair to mention that all the revenue from the sales of their handmade recycled souvenirs go back into the community: the funds received are used to pay local people to clean the village and the surrounding forests of plastic, glass, metal and paper, and to provide them for processing at the Dieci recycling center.

This last action closes the circle of sustainability by involving and teaching their community to think green and to reduce and reuse sustainably. In this way, not only is the local community supported, but it is also educated not to pollute, to collect waste separately. All this fully covers the social aspect of the Green Key programme.

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But the most impressive thing is that, in addition to the culinary magic they create, all the maintenance of the building, the gardens, the bees, the trees, the fermentations, the aging of meat, game, reservations, accounting, marketing and social media and above all – sustainable management with care for nature is in the hands of Chef Gianfranco and Chef Anna Chiarini alone.

The certification and audit of Dieci Boutique Restaurant under the Green Key programme did not turn into a control visit, but into an exchange of experience and useful ideas, how to preserve the natural environment, how to run a tourism business in the most sustainable way with reasonable resource consumption and waste management with an undeniable positive economic effect, which enriched all parties. Dieci definitely stands out as an example that sustainability can also have a beautiful, luxurious, delicious and inspiring side, which should motivate other Bulgarian tourist sites to follow suit.

The sustainable daily activities of Dieci Boutique Restaurant cover all and even build on many of the Green Key criteria and hopefully the international guides will take notice that this petite place in the middle of paradise is not the product of coincidence, nor an accident. But the exemplary result of hard work, passion and ingenuity of two persons in the middle of nature, delivering the highest creative cuisine that Bulgaria has to offer with zero waste and the minimum impact to their surroundings.

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Thank you, Gianfranco and Anna, for choosing Bulgaria as your home and for teaching us how to deliver the highest quality at the lowest cost to nature.

Due to the fact that the impressive green practices of this special place are not just sustainable policies and procedures, but a lifestyle and business style, a personal philosophy and credo, Dieci is the first restaurant to be awarded the prestigious GREEN KEY global award, not only in Bulgaria, but also in Eastern Europe.

Green Key Finland marks a decade of activity with more than 200 certified establishments

As Green Key Finland celebrates ten years of promoting sustainability in tourism, they also reach a milestone with over 200 establishments certified! Dive into the journey of Green Key’s growth, the remarkable partnerships that made it possible, and what’s next for sustainable tourism in Finland.

On October 28th, 2024, Going Green Ltd – the organisation behind Green Key in Finland – kicked off a year-long celebration to mark its 10-year anniversary. This milestone recognises a decade of guiding the Finnish tourism industry toward a more sustainable future. The event’s timing commemorates the founding of Going Green, offering a perfect occasion to gather key stakeholders and celebrate the strides made so far.

Heidi Heinonen (Green Key Finland) with Riitta Salasto (Chairman of the Board of Going Green Ltd)

The celebration was held at Going Green’s headquarters, with an address by Essi Aarnio-Linnanvuori, the chair of the company’s first board of directors and a founding signatory. Her speech revisited the company’s roots and initial vision, highlighting how much has been achieved since that pivotal moment a decade ago.

Attendees included representatives from the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) Finland, the Association of Finnish Travel Industry (SMAL), external auditors, jury members, and other close partners who have supported Green Key’s journey.

In 2015, S-Group, which operates Radisson and S-Hotels in Finland, first introduced the Green Key certification to the country. By next year, these pioneer hotels will also mark their 10-year commitment to Green Key’s sustainability framework – a programme chosen by S-Group for its rigorous approach and clear guidelines on enhancing responsible tourism practices.

Adding to the celebrations, Green Key Finland’s certification count surpassed 200 establishments following the jury meeting on August 30th. This milestone reflects the increasing adoption of sustainability in Finnish tourism, with 211 certified establishments to date and more expected at the next jury meeting in December.

Green Key Finland’s 10-year journey demonstrates the impact that collaboration, education, and commitment can have on promoting sustainable tourism practices. With this strong foundation, Going Green is excited to continue expanding the reach of Green Key in Finland and inspiring a greener future for tourism.

FEE Finland staff with (from the left) Saana Koukku, Anna Muotka, Heidi Heinonen in the middle,  Leena-Maija Valtola , and Minerva Peijari (on the right).

Green Key Brazil spotlight sustainability at the Adventure Travel World Summit 2024

At the Adventure Travel World Summit 2024 in Panama City, Green Key Brazil took the stage to showcase how certifications are shaping sustainable practices in adventure tourism. Discover the key insights from one of the most relevant panels of the event.

Photo credit: Disclosure/Embratur

Green Key Brazil actively participated in the Adventure Travel World Summit 2024 (ATWS), organised by the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) and held in Panama City from 7th to 10th October. Bringing together over 600 delegates from 65 countries, including leaders in global tourism, travel operators, and destination representatives, the event focused on the future of sustainable adventure tourism.

Leana Bernardi, the coordinator for both Blue Flag and Green Key in Brazil, featured in one of the summit’s most pivotal panels, where she emphasised the critical role of environmental certifications in advancing sustainability across the tourism industry. Leana Bernardi highlighted the programmes' ongoing efforts to promote sustainable practices at beaches, marinas, tourist vessels, and accommodation establishments, underscoring their impact on addressing sustainability challenges.

“As the European Union proposes new directives, it’s essential to unite the tourism community to exchange knowledge, address concerns, and discuss the best strategies for each sector. The rise in certifications is designed to help consumers better understand sustainability efforts and prevent greenwashing. Our aim is to guide companies and governments on their journey towards more sustainable activities, while helping them navigate the challenges that arise.”

— Leana Bernardi

This year’s ATWS marked its 20th anniversary under the theme “Connection,” a reflection of Panama’s strategic role as a link between continents, oceans, and cultures. Over four days, attendees participated in networking events, educational workshops, and interactive sessions that encouraged a forward-thinking approach to sustainable adventure tourism.

“Bringing the Adventure Travel World Summit to Central America for the first time, with Panama as the host, is a significant milestone. For over 20 years, we’ve recognised the vast potential for adventure travel in Panama and across Central America. There couldn’t be a more fitting place to shape the future of sustainable adventure tourism over the next two decades.”

— Shannon Stowell, CEO of ATWS

The presence of the Green Key and Blue Flag programmes at ATWS 2024 underlines the importance of incorporating environmental initiatives into the rapidly expanding adventure tourism sector. Their commitment to sustainability ensures that future generations can enjoy natural destinations and tourism facilities in a responsible and environmentally conscious manner.

About ATTA

The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), founded in 1990, is the world’s largest network of adventure travel leaders. Its global community consists of over 30,000 individuals, including tour operators, guides, travel consultants, tourism boards, and destination management organisations, all dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism. Through both virtual and in-person collaboration, the ATTA community drives innovative solutions that support responsible and profitable growth in the adventure travel industry.

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If you want to stay informed about our latest news and developments, follow this link. 

If you're looking to explore more ways your business can enhance its sustainability, check out our latest Good Practices from Green Key certified establishments across the globe. Discover innovative initiatives that can inspire your journey toward a greener future! 

Green Key certification expands in Mexico with 11 newly certified hotels having shown their full commitment to sustainability

The Green Key National Jury in Mexico approved 67 hotels to receive the Green Key certification, including 11 newly certified properties. This brings Mexico’s total to an impressive 237 certified hotels, underscoring the country's growing commitment to environmental and social sustainability in the hospitality sector. 

The Green Key programme continues to set the standard for sustainability in hospitality, and the recent certification of 11 new hotels in Mexico is a testament to this ongoing progress. These newly certified hotels, part of various globally recognised chains such as Marriott, Accor, and Hyatt, are leading the charge in implementing environmentally responsible practices. 

The newly certified hotel are: W Punta de Mita from Marriott Bonvoy, Ibis Chihuahua, Hotel Fairmont Mayakoba, and Fairmont Heritage Place Mayakoba from Accor, and Hyatt Regency Mexico City, Thompson Zihuatanejo, Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort, Thompson Playa del Carmen Beach House, Thompson Playa del Carmen Main House, and Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara from Hyatt. 

These hotels have all made significant strides in their environmental performance by developing and closely monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) related to water, energy, and waste management. For example, Hyatt Regency Mexico City has introduced comprehensive energy-saving initiatives, while Fairmont Mayakoba has implemented advanced water conservation measures. These efforts are not just about compliance but about fostering a culture of continuous improvement. 

For hotels looking to achieve or maintain Green Key certification, the success of these Mexican properties offers valuable lessons: 

• KPI development and monitoring:

  Establishing KPIs is crucial for tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement. Hotels can start by assessing their current performance in areas like water usage, energy consumption, and waste generation. Regular monitoring and analysis of these indicators help hotels make data-driven decisions to enhance sustainability.

• Water and energy management:

  The certified hotels in Mexico have shown that investing in water-saving technologies and energy-efficient systems can significantly reduce environmental impact. Installing low-flow fixtures, energy-efficient lighting, and heating systems not only conserves resources but also leads to cost savings over time.

• Waste management:

  Implementing a robust waste management strategy is essential. The certified hotels have developed comprehensive recycling programmes and initiatives to reduce single-use plastics. By encouraging guests and staff to participate in these efforts, hotels can minimise waste generation and promote a culture of sustainability. 

• Community and environmental engagement:

  The Green Key certification to these 11 new hotels in Mexico shows that by adopting such sustainability practices, hotels can contribute to a greener, more responsible tourism sector. The journey towards Green Key certification is challenging, but as these Mexican hotels have shown, the rewards – in terms of environmental impact, guest satisfaction, and community engagement – are well worth the effort. 

The Green Key certification to these 11 new hotels in Mexico shows that by adopting such sustainability practices, hotels can contribute to a greener, more responsible tourism sector. The journey towards Green Key certification is challenging, but as these Mexican hotels have shown, the rewards – in terms of environmental impact, guest satisfaction, and community engagement – are well worth the effort. 

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If you want to stay informed about our latest news and developments, follow this link.

If you're looking to explore more ways your business can enhance its sustainability, check out our latest Good Practices from Green Key certified establishments across the globe. Discover innovative initiatives that can inspire your journey toward a greener future!