Foundation for Environmental Education Partners with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance to Promote Sustainable Business Practices in Hospitality

A partnership designed to empower people to create an environmentally conscious world, has been announced by the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).  As a strategic delivery partner FEE’s expertise will help the Alliance continue its development of the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality.

Activity will see FEE support the Alliance specifically focusing on the social and environmental aspects of education and training. This agreement positions FEE as an external expert for the Alliance, bringing insight and knowledge which will enhance collective impact. 

Established in 1981, FEE is one of the world's largest environmental education organisations, with over 100 member organisations in 81 countries with programmes which help to protect our world’s natural resources.

This partnership combines the Alliance’s sector-specific expertise and reach, representing over 50,000 properties and 7 million rooms globally, with FEE’s education and training delivery know-how.

Activity will see both parties collaborate on potential joint fundraising campaigns for the hospitality industry, with FEE endorsing and incorporating specific Alliance tools and resources that are relevant to its efforts and programmes.

Sustainable Hospitality Alliance CEO, Glenn Mandziuk, said:

“We are excited to welcome FEE as a strategic delivery partner and look forward to working with them to promote sustainable business practice in the hospitality industry.  FEE’s expertise in environmental education will undoubtedly support the Alliance in its delivery of the Pathway to Net Positive Hospitality.”

Foundation for Environmental Education CEO, Daniel Schaffer, said:

“We are very pleased to be entering a strategic partnership with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. This partnership builds upon our existing cooperation which promoted the use of the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance’s carbon and water calculation tools in the Green Key programme. We look forward to exploring further collaborations that engage FEE’s school-based programmes and the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance’s work supporting vulnerable youth by ensuring short-term employment in the hospitality sector.”

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About the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance

The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance brings together the hospitality industry and strategic partners to address key challenges affecting the planet and its people, local destinations and communities. They develop practical free resources and programmes to create a prosperous and responsible hospitality sector that gives back more than it takes. Their members represent over 50,000 hotels – totalling 7 million rooms – and include world-leading companies including Choice Hotels International, Marriott International, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, BWH Hotel Group and Radisson Hotel Group, as well as regional brands. Their network also includes other parts of the hospitality value chain, including owners, investors and suppliers, to further drive joined up action on sustainability, and accelerate the industry on the path to net positive hospitality. For more information, please visit: www.sustainablehospitalityalliance.org

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 80 countries. With a network of over 60,000 educational institutions, the Eco-Schools, Learning About 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 recognized 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.

Empowering Caribbean Tourism: New Partnership with focus on the engagement in Sustainable Certification Programmes in the Caribbean

The University of the West Indies (UWI), the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), and Green Trinidad and Tobago (Green T&T) have joined forces to assess the extent to which the region’s tourism industry is participating in globally recognized sustainability-oriented certification programmes.  

Increasingly, programmes like FEE’s Green Key programme have become valuable vehicles for assisting companies in improving efficiencies, reducing their carbon footprint, and broadening their market appeal.  

The new partnership will look at the use of sustainability certification programmes by Caribbean tourism-related companies and identify potential strategies to increase industry participation.  

The organisations announced the partnership and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the recent Caribbean Travel Marketplace event in Barbados, the region’s largest B2B event held annually by CHTA. The MOU supports the organisations’ research, advocacy, training, and public awareness collaboration.  

Commenting at the launch, UWI’s Dr. Acolla Lewis-Cameron, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, St. Augustine Campus stated:  

“We are pleased to participate in this new partnership, a conglomeration of local, regional, and international organisations which have converged to push the boundaries of Caribbean tourism. By engaging industry, we are able to produce data to help us offer solutions to pressing issues associated with Caribbean tourism.” 

CHTA’s President Nicola Madden-Greig, who was joined by Kyle Mais, Chairman of the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism, a CHTA-affiliated organisation, added:  

“We wish to thank our partners at UWI, FEE and Green T&T for advancing with us this important undertaking. We look forward to drawing upon the research project’s results to raise awareness, stimulate more direct actions by the industry, and advance policies and programs which raise the bar and move the region toward playing a more active and results-oriented role in protecting and enhancing our most treasured resources – our people and our environment.”  

FEE’s CEO Daniel Schaffer commented:  

“There is a clear expectation that hotels working within the system within sustainability will have an advantage within the marketplace. There is, however, still a need for more facts and figures about the positive effect of engaging in sustainability. The research that is part of our MOU will validate this and offer additional insights for improvements.  

 We look forward to working on the research undertaking and being part of the subsequent advocacy and public awareness about the outcome of this research in the region and worldwide.” 

Providing a destination perspective, Joanna Moses-Wothke, CEO for Green T&T, a FEE member organisation supporting training and credentialling initiatives locally and regionally, and who was joined by her colleague Tenisha Brown-Williams, added her support: 

 “This research project will provide critical insight into the impact of sustainability efforts. It will significantly help financially restricted small business owners to make informed decisions about marketing strategies, sustainable tourism, product development, and even customer service in a sustainable realm. The results will assist policymakers as facilitators of successful green, blue, and purple tourism development.” 

 The project’s research phase is under development, with outreach to the industry expected to occur this summer. 

Signatories display their support during the virtual signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). (Clockwise from upper left): Dr. Acolla Lewis-Cameron, University of the West Indies; Daniel Schaeffer, Foundation for Environmental Education; Kyle Mais, Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism and Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association; and Joanna Moses-Wothke from Green Trinidad and Tobago.

About the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) 

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) is the Caribbean’s leading association representing the interests of national hotel and tourism associations. For more than 60 years, CHTA has been the backbone of the Caribbean hospitality industry. Working with some 1,000 hotel and allied members, and 33 National Hotel Associations, CHTA is shaping the Caribbean’s future and helping members to grow their businesses. Whether helping to navigate critical issues in sales and marketing, sustainability, legislative issues, emerging technologies, climate change, data and intelligence or, looking for avenues and ideas to better market and manage businesses, CHTA is helping members on issues which matter most. For further information, visit www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com.  

About The University of the West Indies 

Starting as a university college of London in Jamaica with 33 medical students in 1948, UWI has evolved into a modern, future-driven, activist, top-ranked academy with over 50,000 students. Its mission to advance learning, create knowledge and foster innovation for the positive transformation of the Caribbean is centered on producing critical thinkers and leaders who serve the needs of the 21st century society. 

About Green Trinidad and Tobago 

Green T&T is a nonprofit environmental civil society organization that implements sustainable tourism certification and educational initiatives. This includes the global Blue Flag and Green Key certification programmes. The organisation aims to increase environmental awareness and improve the environmental consciousness within the tourism and hospitality sector. 

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Ten tourism establishments across Scotland have been certified with Green Key for their strong focus on sustainability

Following diligent efforts in implementing sustainable management principles and undergoing rigorous document checks and on-site audits, ten newly established Scottish establishments have successfully obtained the Green Key certificate.

© Glasgow Science Centre

The United Nations Climate Change Conference held in Glasgow highlighted the importance of accelerating climate action in Scotland’s tourism sector and worldwide.  

Through its criteria and global projects and partnerships, Green Key not only provides advocacy tools and action plans to their certified sites but also a platform to help businesses showcase their sustainable initiatives to a vast audience of environmentally conscious travellers.  

The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) has taken significant steps towards delivering effective Climate Action in Tourism. As a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration, FEE is actively working to implement global actions and support member organisations to deliver quality change action. To find out more about FEE’s action plan click here.  

Lyn Donnelly, Senior Responsible Tourism Manager at VisitScotland, said:  

“We all have a duty of care to protect the natural assets which make Scotland so special. Visitors are becoming increasingly aware of their impact on the world around them. We want to support their desire to make sustainable choices by equipping those within the tourism industry with the knowledge and understanding of how their business can meet these needs. 

Gaining a sustainability certification is a fantastic opportunity for Scottish tourism businesses to show visitors their commitment to environmental and sustainable practices.”

The following Scottish tourism establishments have received the Green Key certification and are now part of our global Network:  

Seven Marriot Hotels: 

• Courtyard by Marriott Aberdeen Airport 

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Aberdeen 

• Residence Inn by Marriott Aberdeen 

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh 

• Residence Inn by Marriott Edinburgh 

• Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh 

• Glasgow Marriott Hotel  

  And:

• Voco Grand Central Hotel, an IHG Hotel, Glasgow   

• Glasgow Science Centre   

• Landal Brunston Castle, South Ayrshire 

© Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa Edinburgh

Tom Brock OBE, Chair of Keep Scotland Beautiful, the National Operator for the Green Key programme in Scotland, which is licensed globally by the Foundation for Environmental Education, said:  

“We congratulate all ten tourism establishments across Scotland receiving Green Key certification and look forward to supporting them to achieve continued environmental improvements, that can also result in financial savings.  

We have a highly skilled team of staff available to assist Green Key applicants with both technical support and advice and encourage you to get in touch today to start your sustainability journey.” 

Finn Bolding Thomsen, International Green Key Director at Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) added: 

“We are delighted to recognise ten establishments across Scotland as becoming Green Key certified and congratulate their efforts to foster a more sustainable future.” 

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The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) Develops its Climate Action Plan as a Signatory of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism

The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) has taken another significant step towards delivering effective Climate Action in the Tourism sector.

As a signatory of the Glasgow Declaration, FEE has pledged to develop and implement an Action Plan focused on addressing climate change impacts in tourism. The plan will be reviewed annually to ensure transparency and accountability.

The Glasgow Declaration was launched at the UN Climate Change Conference COP26 in November 2021. It is a voluntary commitment requiring organisations to deliver action plans within 12 months of their becoming signatories. These pledges should be aligned with five pathways: Measure, Decarbonize, Regenerate, Collaborate and Finance.

The Glasgow Declaration encourages the acceleration of climate action in tourism by securing commitments to reduce emissions in the tourism sector by at least 50% over the next decade.

The objectives of FEE’s Action Plan for Climate Action are strongly connected aligned with FEE´s GAIA 20:30 strategy’s Climate Action pillar, as well as with the global goal of reaching net zero emissions as soon as possible, before 2050.

FEE aims to implement global actions through its five programmes, with a particular focus on Blue Flag and Green Key International, renowned for their sustainable tourism initiatives and broad network of destinations and hospitality establishments.

In the coming years, FEE has outlined key objectives to guide its actions, in particular:

• Support member organisations in the FEE network to deliver quality change action and develop Climate Action Plans, while providing access to tools and resources to do so.

• Wherever possible, align the criteria of its sustainable tourism programmes with the goals and with the five pathways of the Glasgow Declaration (Measure, Decarbonise, Regenerate, Collaborate and Finance).

• Promote a culture of measurement and monitoring of carbon emissions. This will involve analyzing energy consumption, waste management practices and other relevant factors in order to form a basis for targeted emission reduction strategies throughout the network.

The Foundation for Environmental Education builds initiatives and activities together with and for its broad network of organisations in around 80 countries all over the world. More than 5000 sites are awarded the Blue Flag in more than 50 countries, and more than 4000 sites are certified with the Green Key in more than 60 countries. FEE aims at taking the role of a strategic multiplier for the Glasgow Declaration effort.

To read the Glasgow Declaration Action Plan of the Foundation for Environmental Education, click the picture below:

By fostering collaboration, promoting sustainable practices, and raising awareness, FEE’s Action Plan for Climate Action aims at inspiring positive change, and at contributing to global efforts in mitigating climate change locally, nationally, and globally.

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Green Key blooms in Bulgaria: 10 new establishments receive the certificate and embrace sustainability in their operations

After hard work on introducing the principles of sustainable management and thorough document checks and on-site audits, ten new Bulgarian hotels receive the Green Key certificate and reinvent themselves as a supplier of a high-quality sustainable tourism product. 

© "Debeli dab" Eco village - Stara Kresna  

In addition to the first Bulgarian hotel to receive the Green Key - InterContinental Sofia Hotel, we warmly welcome the following establishments in our global Network: 

• Boutique complex "Forest Houses" - Godech 

• "Debeli dab" Eco village - Stara Kresna  

• Complex "Bozhenski Chiflik" - Sabotkovtsi 

• "Zlaten Rog" Guest house - Iskrets 

• "Katarino" SPA Hotel - Razlog 

• “Orpheus” SPA & Resort- Devin 

• "The Five Elements" Hotel  - Sapareva Banya 

• "Pirina Club" Hotel  - Bansko 

• "Rudi" Thematic Hotel - Gorno Draglishte  

• "Topola Skies Resort & Aquapark" Hotel Complex - Topola  

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All the newly certified accommodation facilities are part of the international "Project ETGG2030” (European Tourism Goes Green), co-financed under the COSME Program of the European Union. They followed their own principles of environmental management, but complying with the strict Green Key criteria, achieved remarkable success and qualitative change.  

• Boutique complex "Forest Houses" in Godech is located on a picturesque meadow tucked away in the forest. It is built only from local natural materials such as wood and stone and takes special care of the natural habitat and its precious inhabitants. 

• "Debeli dab" Eco village in Stara Kresna takes immense pride in involving its guests in their mission of environmental preservation. With a range of activities including organised rafting, cycling, hiking and cycling tours, as well as children’s camps, they effectively raise awareness of the significance of biodiversity preservation.   

• Complex "Bozhenski Chiflik in Sabotkovtsi provides traditional experiences such as crafts, access to locally produced food, and practical lessons to learn about the flora and fauna.   Eli from Bozhenski Chiflik says:

“We offer hospitality with a guarantee for real food, pure nature and preserved traditions.”

• "Zlaten Rog" Guest house in Iskrets is a 100-year-old house in the Balkan mountain, completely preserved and restored to its original, whose construction serves as a model for architects from around the world. It provides organic farming experience for its guests in a natural garden, where no chemicals are used, and all the wastewater is treated and re-used for watering the plants.  Ani, the owner of Zlaten Rog says:

"We are the last generation that can choose what to leave to our heirs. The next generations may not have a choice, it's up to us!" 

• "Katarino" SPA Hotel – Razlog is surrounded by three mountains and it is the embodiment of the idea of a luxurious spa holiday in nature. The hotel has an impressive program of activities taking their guests outdoors on hiking or riding free tours along mountain tracks to peaks, lakes and landmarks where they can observe different species of birds, butterflies, animals, plants. They offer their guests their homemade produce and drinks of natural origin which are delicious, pure and inspired by nature. 

•   “Orpheus” SPA & Resort’s General Manager, Valentin Kotsakov,  points out:  

“As a person, I myself have always sought to live in such a way as to be in maximum harmony with the environment. This applies to me, my family, and the establishment I manage. Through our application for the Green Key certificate, we were able to synchronize many of the activities we were already doing anyway. But we also gained new knowledge and skills on how to be even more useful in nature conservation. But most importantly, Green Key gave us the self-discipline and a new focus on our daily activities, from which we received the satisfaction of being worthy inhabitants of our planet Earth.” 

• "The Five Elements" Hotel- Sapareva Banya is proud to receive the Green Key, because following its requirements they managed to educate their team, who are 99% local people, the philosophy of sustainable development and the reasonable management of waste, and by taking these principles to their families – they succeeded in influencing the whole community. The hotel is located next to the hottest gayser in Europe and using modern technology they can utilize the thermal power of mineral water. The hotel management adopted and took care of a nature trail in the Rila National Park and they are happy to support various noble local causes.  

© The Five Elements Hotel

• "Pirina Club" Hotel ‘s owner, Deana Hristova, from Bansko says:

“The Green Key certification program is very important to our business, as it has defined our priorities and helped to fill many gaps in our sustainable development plans. We are especially proud that we managed to create a waste recycling system. We separate paper, glass, plastic and metal, used batteries and plastic caps, which we collect especially for the "Caps for the Future" campaign. We are happy that our own sustainable practices are coherent to the Green Key criteria.” 

• "Rudi" Thematic Hotel - Gorno Draglishte has a motto: Let's move forward by returning to nature! Their mission is to respect, preserve and live in harmony with the environment. All their guests can enjoy cozy atmosphere, home-cooked meals, local traditions and customs. Over a cup of aromatic forest tea with pine elixir, they hold talks about wild mushrooms and herbs. And after the walks on the eco-paths, the experience is unforgettable for everyone who is happy to return. The owner of the hotel Velka Yadkova points out:

"We can move forward only with a clear awareness of the need for preserving the nature around us, through good practices and responsible training of the team, the local population and the guests of our hotel.”  

• "Topola Skies Resort & Aquapark" Hotel Complex - Topola is famous for its zip-line to the beach through picturesque cliffs and the nature trail, that they have created themselves, with information boards about the indigenous flora and fauna. They are happy to be able to preserve local traditions by supporting folk groups. Every week they organize a Bulgarian evening for their guests with dance and music performances. In this way they manage to show the rich Bulgarian culture to the visitors of the complex. 

Finn Bolding Thomsen, Green Key International Director adds:

“We would like to congratulate all the newly certified Bulgarian establishments for their efforts toward a sustainable hospitality industry!”

Accor and Green Key sign collaboration agreement

The collaboration agreement between Accor and Green Key for 2022-2026 will have Accor hotels implementing their sustainable development initiatives through two preferred certification programmes globally, including Green Key.

© Accor

Accor is one of the largest global hotel chains, with over 5,400 hotels across 40+ brands in over 110 countries at present.

Accor has been committed to sustainable development for many years. With new goals set in 2020, the Group has decided to go a step further in its sustainability transformation, aiming for all its hotels to receive an external sustainability certification before the end of 2026.

Due to Green Key’s established expertise across environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry, the programme has been chosen by Accor as one of two preferred certification programmes to cover all regions globally (except USA and Canada, where Green Key is not offered).

 Brune Poirson, Chief Sustainability Officer at Accor said:

I am very proud of the collaboration agreement between Accor and Green Key, which now has Accor hotels implementing their sustainable development initiatives through two preferred certification programs globally. It indicates Accor’s commitment to responsible hospitality and will help increase external recognition of our sustainability practices amongst all stakeholders in the industry.

Finn Bolding Thomsen, Green Key International Director, added:

“We are proud to be chosen by Accor as a preferred certification partner. With our large network of National Operators, we are looking forward to having the opportunity to support Accor with its sustainability ambitions and seeing many Accor hotels globally displaying the Green Key.”

About Accor:

Accor is a world leading hospitality group offering experiences across more than 110 countries in 5 400 properties, 10 000 food & beverage venues, wellness facilities or flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry’s most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing more than 40 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore. Accor is committed to taking positive action in terms of business ethics & integrity, responsible tourism, sustainable development, community outreach, and diversity & inclusion.  Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on Euronext Paris (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information, please visit www.group.accor.com or follow them on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.

© Accor

About Green Key:

Coordinated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Green Key is a voluntary eco-label awarded to more than 4,200 hotels and other establishments in 60+ countries and is the leading standard for excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. The high environmental standards expected of Green Key establishments are maintained through a strict set of criteria, rigorous documentation and frequent audits. Green Key is eligible for hotels, hostels, small accommodations, campsites, holiday parks, conference centres, restaurants and attractions.

For more information, please visit www.greenkey.global or contact us through finn@fee.global.

Rising popularity of sustainable accommodations highlighted in Booking.Com Report

Booking.com's Sustainable Travel Report 2023 includes insights into sustainable travel choices from more than 33,000 travelers across 35 countries and territories. Particularly interesting for Green Key, are their results on the growing popularity of sustainable accommodation providers.  

© Villa Resorts

Every year, the Booking.com report sheds light on the evolving landscape of sustainable travel and highlights the increasing demand for eco-friendly experiences among travelers worldwide. As sustainability continues to be a driving force in the tourism industry, the findings of the report provide valuable insights into the preferences and motivations of conscious travelers. Over the eight years that the international booking platform has conducted this research, sustainability continues to be at the forefront for travelers.  

For example, 74% of respondents believe that people need to act now and make more sustainable choices to save the planet for future generations. This marks a substantial increase compared to previous years (66% in 2022), indicating a continuous shift in consumer behavior towards more responsible and environmentally friendly travel options.  

Particularly interesting for Green Key seems to be the trends connected to sustainable and/or eco-certified accommodations. The report highlights the growing popularity of eco-accommodations among travelers, as 65% of respondents confirmed that they would feel better about staying in a particular accommodation if they knew it had a sustainable certification or label. In addition, 59% would like to filter their accommodation options for those with a sustainable certification next time they book. Furthermore, travelers are actively seeking accommodations that prioritise sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient infrastructure, recycling programs, and locally sourced amenities. 

As economic conditions have changed significantly over the past year, the report also highlights a dilemma where travelers feel forced to choose between cost savings and more sustainable travel choices. 49% believe sustainable travel options are too expensive, which represents an 11% increase from 2022 data. Travelling sustainably therefore becomes secondary when worrying about bills and the energy crisis. Despite these developments 43% of respondents also claimed that they would be willing to pay more for sustainable travel options. 

While the desire for sustainable travel is strong, it also becomes apparent from the report that the lack of knowledge about sustainable travel options is among the challenges preventing some travelers from engaging in more sustainable travel experiences. The news and social media continue to be the top two sources of learning about sustainability for 43% of respondents. Aligned with the results of the report, and Booking.com's mission to make sustainable travel choices easier for everyone, the company is increasingly displaying sustainable accommodations around the world. Already now, travelers can find Green Key certified accommodations and information about their sustainable actions on Booking.com.

In case you are a Green Key certified establishment that would like to claim your listing on Booking.com, please contact us via chiara@fee.global. 

To conclude, the Booking.com Sustainable Travel Report 2023 shows a significant global shift towards sustainable travel, with most travelers expressing a desire for more eco-friendly options. As conscious travel becomes the norm, both travelers and industry players have a shared responsibility to prioritise sustainable practices and create a positive impact on the environment, so that

“sustainable travel becomes the norm, and not the exception (Glenn Fogel, CEO of Booking.com).”  

To read the full Booking.com report click here. 

Regent Porto Montenegro demonstrates strong commitment to local community support

Since its establishment in 2014, the Regent Porto Montenegro has dedicated itself to upholding sustainable practices while actively supporting the local community and preserving Montenegro's cultural heritage and way of life through cuisine, interior design, and communication campaigns. For their inspiring sustainability practices, the hotel has now been certified with Green Key.  

© Regent Porto Montenegro

Demonstrating their unwavering commitment to sustainability, the Regent Porto Montenegro offers internships to local students, to actively support the training and education of youth within the region. Besides that, it also organises a Winter Ball fundraising to help associations in need and sponsor the local sports clubs. With these activities, the establishment directly or indirectly contributes to the social sustainability of their enterprise by focusing their efforts on the needs of their community.  

Moreover, the hotel proudly stood as one of the sponsors of the first Western Balkan ESG Summit, an influential regional event focused on environmental, social, and governance issues that took place in April 2023. The summit served as a platform for political leaders, government officials, industry experts, and investors to engage in interactive discussions on critical ESG themes such as sustainable finance, green transition and innovation, fostering awareness and promoting responsible business practices in the region. The conference gathered 450 participants from 150 regional companies.  

The Regent Porto Montenegro is also one of the hosts of the much-awaited Regent Christmas Market, an event that provides Montenegrin artists with an opportunity to promote their art and crafts. 

©Regent Porto Montenegro

Kai Dieckmann, the General Manager of Regent Porto Montenegro, says:  

"We take pride in maintaining our green footprint and striving for sustainable practices while prioritising the well-being of our staff and community. Through these efforts, we make a positive impact on the environment and create a better world for present and future generations. For us, this is truly the 'key' that shows that we invest in our team and that we lead the company in a very sustainable way.” 

What sets the Regent Porto Montenegro apart is its team of green ambassadors, who not only uphold existing sustainability practices, but also bring new ideas and ambitions to make a difference. The staff members therefore actively engage with the municipality of Tivat to:

• facilitate the collection of recycled waste, participate in community actions such as beach and park clean-ups,

• utilise green areas around the hotel to plant aromatic plants, and

• promote responsible behaviour to guests through messages in guestrooms focusing on recycling, energy, and water conservation, as well as smart towel and linen changing policies. 

 Finn Bolding Thomsen, Green Key International Director adds:  

“We warmly welcome Regent Porto Montenegro to our global network of certified establishments, as their dedication to preserving Montenegro’s heritage and implementing sustainable actions sets a great example for the tourism industry.” 

 For more information about Regent Porto Montenegro click here.

LionsDive Beach Resort supports Environmental Education through Guest Bookings

The LionsDive Beach Resort sets an inspiring example for the hospitality industry by wholeheartedly embracing sustainability in its operations. From energy conservation and waste reduction to championing environmental preservation, the resort's dedication to sustainability is evident at every turn.

© LionsDive Beach Resort

The LionsDive Beach Resort is dedicated to promoting sustainability in every aspect of its operations, from reducing energy and water consumption to minimising waste and protecting the natural environment. The resort has implemented a range of sustainable practices, including using renewable energy sources, recycling, reducing plastic waste, and supporting local communities. One of the most popular initiatives is providing the guests with a reusable souvenir water bottle to promote drinking tap water and eliminate the use of plastic water bottles.

Working together with renowned sustainable companies such as Pack for a Purpose and GreenKidz enables LionsDive and its guests to help support the local community. LionsDive donates $1 per night booked via the website to GreenKidz who then uses these funds to create educational material about sustainability for school children. Pack for a Purpose is an initiative that allows travelers to make a lasting impact in the community by taking necessary supplies in their luggage for the chosen projects.

© LionsDive Beach Resort

The team of the LionsDive are thrilled to receive the Green Key eco-certificate, as it is a testament to the ongoing efforts to promote sustainability and responsible tourism.

General Manager, Mimi Luttge explains:

“At the LionsDive Beach Resort, we believe that tourism can only survive in a world that is environmentally, economically, and socially responsible. We are committed to playing our part in creating a more sustainable future.”

The International Green Key Coordinator, Claudia Bogensperger adds:

“For us at Green Key International, it is a great pleasure to read about the many amazing best practice examples connected to social or environmental sustainability from our certified establishments. The team of the LionsDive Beach Resort has done an incredible job implementing unique ways in their resort to go the extra mile for our planet, and we are proud to welcome them to our network.”

For more information about LionsDive Beach Resort click here.