Google has added a new feature to its travel site, making it possible to see whether a hotel is eco-certified or not. Green Key is one of the certification programmes used by Google Travel.

The feature allows tourists to distinguish whether a hotel is committed to contributing towards sustainable methods, the hotel is aware of their environmental impact and take responsibility and participate in sustainable practices.

Whilst searching on Google Travel for a hotel to stay in, the options on the list displayed will show a tag that states "eco-certified" next to a green leaf. This leads to travellers being able to identify hotels that take upon sustainable efforts and practices.

However, not all eco-certified hotels are featured as the tool is optional for hotels that opt-in to self-reporting. The eco-certified establishments would need to adhere to a set of practices provided through an accredited independent organisation such as Green Key.

How to use the feature:

On google.com/travel, search for hotels.
Select a hotel with an "eco-certified" label.
On the hotel's detail page, select the About tab.
Scroll down to the "Sustainability" section.
Find hotels with sustainability practices.

Nevertheless, it is essential to note that not all establishments participating in sustainable practices are also eco-certified. Google provides a list of twenty-nine reputable green programs, which the hotel selects the one applicable to them which they are contributing to alongside adhering to external on-site audits. Next hotel staff add the hotel to the listing through the free Google My Business Profile.

This new feature enables tourists who are mindful of their environmental impacts while travelling a simpler booking experience. Among travellers desiring further transparency against greenwashing, which has become increasingly popular alongside the desire to locate eco-friendly hotels, the new feature is anticipated to be well received from tourists.