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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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!

Green Key welcomes EkoSfera as National Operator in Azerbaijan

Green Key International is excited to welcome EkoSfera as the new National Operator for Azerbaijan, bringing 25 years of expertise in sustainability and youth education to the country’s hospitality sector.

As a well-established humanitarian NGO, the mission of EkoSfera Social-Ecology Center aligns perfectly with Green Key’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental responsibility.

Since its inception in 1999, EkoSfera has been a driving force in Azerbaijan's environmental sector. The organisation unites environmental professionals, scientists, educators, and students to tackle pressing issues such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, and waste management. Their work spans over 80 international projects, with a particular emphasis on empowering children and young people, who are the most vulnerable to environmental changes.

“Healthy nation, healthy environment” is at the core of EkoSfera’s mission. Their efforts in raising awareness, promoting environmental education, and building ecotourism have left a significant mark on the country. Notably, the organisation’s “Green Network” has reached more than 25,000 schoolchildren annually, fostering a generation committed to environmental stewardship.

As the National Operator for Green Key, EkoSfera will now leverage their environmental expertise to promote eco-friendly practices in hotels and tourism establishments across Azerbaijan. With their extensive background in sustainability and project management, EkoSfera is well-positioned to guide the hospitality industry towards greener operations, ensuring that their work aligns with the country’s broader environmental goals.

In addition to their new role with Green Key, EkoSfera has longstanding partnerships with global organisations like UNICEF, UNEP, UNESCO, and FAO, and actively participates in international networks such as the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA) and UNESCO’s Greening Education Partnership. These connections allow them to amplify the voices of Azerbaijan's children and youth on the global stage.

For more information about Green Key in Azerbaijan, please contact EkoSfera at: ekosfera.az@gmail.com

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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!