FEE Argentina, the Argentinian member of the international Foundation for Environmental Education, has announced the commencement of the Green Key eco-certification programme for the hospitality and tourism industry, with first hotels ready to start the application process.

Thanks to its incredible nature and rich cultural heritage, Argentina is already a renowned and widely appreciated tourist destination in South America. An opportunity to encourage the sustainable transformation of the industry is an important milestone for FEE Argentina.

The Green Key programme will help to raise awareness of responsible and conscious tourism and hospitality among both business operators and visitors, so future generations can also enjoy the beauty of the country. Respectful use of natural resources will be promoted, as well as the appreciation for local products and reduction of waste, water usage, and carbon footprint. The Green Key programme not only validates the sustainability standards of tourism establishments but also offers support and knowledge essential to fully comprehend and adopt good practices. Six hotels from the NH chain have already expressed their readiness to start the certification procedure.

Green Key will be operated by FEE Argentina along with the other programmes that are already present in the country: Blue Flag for the sustainability of beaches and seaside resorts, and Eco Schools and Young Reporters for the Environment, both aimed at raising environmental awareness within the education sector.

"We believe this is an important beginning to help the whole tourism sector with not only hotels but also restaurants, small accommodations, holiday parks, conference centers, and camping sites being more sustainable and amicable with nature" said Francesca Abeltino, Director of FEE Argentina.

Finn Bolding Thomsen, the International Director of Green Key, said: “We are excited that FEE Argentina has decided to take this step and become a National Operator for the Green Key programme. It will certainly open the door for many new certifications in the country, thereby promoting environmental and social responsibility and sustainable business operations.”