Three new Green Key-certified properties bolster Tobago's sustainable tourism efforts

Green T&T and the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) proudly announce the addition of three more Green Key-certified properties to its portfolio.

L - R: Wendell Walker - Director Product Development & Destination Management |Tobago Tourism Agency Ltd; Jade Nivet- Office Manager| Bananaquit Vacations; Aljoscha Wothke - Chairman, Green T&T

Bananaquit Vacations, Tropical Apartments, and House of Grace have all successfully achieved their certifications, bolstering Tobago's reputation as a leader in sustainable tourism. These properties join the esteemed ranks of Shepherd's Inn and Adventure Ecovillas, bringing the total number of Green Key-certified sites in Tobago to five.

Bananaquit Vacations, a trailblazer in sustainable hospitality, is delighted to receive its second-year Green Key certification. Situated amidst lush tropical gardens in Crown Point, the property offers guests a tranquil escape while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. Bananaquit Vacations has implemented numerous eco-friendly initiatives, including energy-efficient practices, waste reduction measures, and extensive recycling programs, to minimize its ecological footprint.

Tropical Apartments located in Scarborough, has also earned its second-year Green Key certification. This eco-conscious establishment goes above and beyond to provide guests with an exceptional experience while safeguarding the island's delicate ecosystem. By implementing water conservation measures, and engaging in community outreach programs, Tropical Apartment exemplifies the principles of sustainable tourism.

L-R: Aljoscha Wothke - Chairman, Green T&T; Gillian Gibson, Owner| Tropical Apartments; Wendell Walker - Director Product Development & Destination Management |Tobago Tourism Agency Ltd

House of Grace, a new addition to Tobago's Green Key certified properties, has already made significant strides in environmental sustainability. Nestled in a serene setting in the Buccoo area, this property seamlessly combines comfort and eco-consciousness. House of Grace is committed to resource efficiency, waste management, and responsible tourism practices. With its Green Key certification, the property further establishes its commitment to preserving Tobago's natural wonders for future generations.

L-R: Wendell Walker - Director Product Development & Destination Management |Tobago Tourism Agency Ltd; Gracelyn Chance, Owner| House of Grace; Aljoscha Wothke - Chairman, Green T&T

Ms. Alicia Edwards, Executive Chair of the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited, expressed her delight at the continued growth of Green Key-certified properties in Tobago, stating

“The Green Key certification is a natural fit and durable competitive advantage for destination Tobago. We congratulate the successful properties and pledge the continued support of the Agency for the expansion of Green Key certification on the island.”

Green T&T, the National Operator for the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and custodian of the Green Key program in Trinidad and Tobago, commended the newly certified properties for their commitment to sustainability. Mrs. Joanna Moses-Wothke, Chief Executive Officer of Green T&T, remarked

"We are proud to witness the growth of the Green Key program in Tobago and celebrate the exemplary efforts of Bananaquit Vacations, Tropical Apartment, and House of Grace. Their dedication to sustainable practices sets a remarkable example for the hospitality industry in the English-speaking Caribbean."

With its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich biodiversity, Tobago has long been a favored destination for travelers seeking a harmonious blend of nature and relaxation. The addition of Bananaquit Vacations, Tropical Apartment, and House of Grace to the Green Key-certified properties not only enhances the island's allure but also underscores Tobago's commitment to fostering sustainable tourism practices. For more information on Tobago's Green Key-certified properties and sustainable tourism initiatives, please visit Green Key T&T – Green-TT.

About Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL):  The core mandate of the TTAL is to lead the (re) development of the island’s tourism product and the marketing and (re) positioning of Tobago as a premier island destination founded on the principles of sustainable development. In order to fulfill its mandate, the TTAL works with and through public and private sector stakeholders and partners in the aviation, cruise and hospitality sub-sectors.

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About Green Key: Green T&T is the National Operator for the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in Trinidad and Tobago. As custodian of the Green Key program, Green T&T is responsible for the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the eco-label within the country's tourism industry. Green T&T works in partnership with government agencies, tourism stakeholders, and hospitality establishments to promote sustainable practices, raise awareness about environmental conservation, and drive the growth of eco-tourism in Trinidad and Tobago. For more information on Green T&T, please visit www.green-tt.org or email greenkey@green-tt.org Telephone contact: 1-868-358-1708 or 1-868-497-9705

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Green Key Programme Launched in Bangladesh: A positive step towards Sustainable Tourism

In a significant stride towards advancing sustainable tourism in Bangladesh, the nation proudly inaugurates the Green Key program under the astute leadership of Probha Aurora, the esteemed national operator of Green Key in Bangladesh

Green Key, a globally recognised certification programme renowned for its emphasis on environmental stewardship and sustainable practices within the hospitality and tourism sector, now finds its home in Bangladesh through the dedicated efforts of Probha Aurora. As the national operator, Probha Aurora's adept strategic approach and conscientious response to both local and global environmental concerns position them as the ideal custodians of this prestigious initiative.

Bidhan Chandra Pal, Founder and Managing Director of Probha Aurora, shared,

"We take immense pride in announcing the national stewardship of Green Key in Bangladesh. This endeavor not only nurtures ecologically responsible tourism and sustainable business practices but also proudly showcases Bangladesh's resolute dedication to eco-friendly tourism. With concerted cooperation, we aspire to realize the triumph and longevity of this programme."

The Green Key programme encourages tourism establishments, including hotels, hostels, holiday parks, conference centers, restaurants, and attractions, to adopt sustainable methods and technology. This will lead to a reduction in resource consumption and an increased focus on environmental responsibility, ultimately contributing to a greener tourism sector. Probha Aurora's dedication to environmental awareness on a national scale, combined with its innovative revenue generation models, makes them well-equipped to drive positive change and ensure the success and sustainability of the Green Key programme in Bangladesh.

Finn Bolding Thomsen, Green Key International Director, enthusiastically remarked,

"We are very happy to announce Probha Aurora as the entity in charge of implementing and administering the Green Key programme in Bangladesh. It is exciting to see the interest for Green Key growing in South and South-East Asia. Probha Aurora’s aim of supporting the transition to sustainable tourism in Bangladesh while also creating new jobs for youth in the tourism industry is a very important strategic direction."

The rise in environmental awareness among tourists has led to a demand for eco-friendly accommodations. The Green Key certification assures tourists of a tourism establishment's dedication to sustainability. In Bangladesh, the launch of the Green Key programme by Probha Aurora reflects a significant step towards aligning the country's tourism industry with global sustainable practices. This initiative is anticipated to make Bangladesh a top choice for environmentally conscious travelers as the nation embraces eco-friendly initiatives and awareness campaigns among tourists, staff, and suppliers.

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About Probha Aurora:

Since its inception in 2021, Probha Aurora stands as an avant-garde organisation ardently committed to tackling environmental challenges and propounding sustainable paradigms in Bangladesh. A climate-sensitive, youth-focused social enterprise, Probha Aurora's resolute initiatives align seamlessly with the imperatives of today's sustainability landscape.

Noteworthy to mention, the launch of this programme was strategically fortified through collaborative strategic support from ekShop, A2i (Access to Information) and the Government ICT (Information and Communication Technology) Division, Cabinet Division, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh and UNDP signifying a collective pledge to foster a greener and more enduringly sustainable tourism industry.

Discover Green Key’s achievements in the 2022 FEE’s annual report

The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) releases its annual report each year, which includes a summary of the organization's key accomplishments and network-wide choices. The report details a number of accomplishments from FEE's five programmes. As a result, the report also includes the Green Key programme's achievements and other important milestones.

© FEE

In 2022, the Green Key programme achieved important milestones, such as:

• Signing new cooperation agreements with Accor, BWH Hotel Group, and Ascott Hotel, among others, contributing to the overall increase of over 900 establishments in the programme.

• Participating in the Improved Competitiveness of National Entreprises (ICONE) project with FEE EcoCampus programme and supporting the development of sustainable tourism in Cambodia through education and capacity building in the hospitality sector.

• Continuing working, in line with FEE strategic plan GAIA 20:30, on empowering climate action, protecting global biodiversity and reducing environmental pollution.

To read more about Green Key’s highlights of 2022 featured in the FEE annual report click here.

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Centre for Environment Education (CEE) launches the National Management of Green Key in India

The Foundation for Environmental Education’s (FEE) member organisation in India, the Centre for Environment Education (CEE), is launching the national management of Green Key in the country.

© YRE Student from India, 1st Place Winner, Litter Less Category in 2020, YRE International Competition

After the successful implementation of the FEE programme, the Blue Flag certificate for beaches, marinas and sustainable tourism boats, CEE is now launching the Green Key programme in the country. With this important step, CEE is supporting and recognising responsible hospitality practices and contributing to a more sustainable tourism industry in India.

India, known for its vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, has long been a sought-after destination for travelers from around the globe. As the tourism industry continues to grow, there is an increasing need to ensure that this growth is sustainable and environmentally responsible. The national implementation of Green Key in India holds several advantages for both the tourism establishments in the country but also the tourism sector in general.

Due to the increased proximity of the National Operator to the tourism establishments in India, Green Key can ensure to meet the specific needs and requirements of the market. CEE’s focus on raising awareness, and educating about the environment and sustainable development, paired with the understanding for the Indian culture and country-specific conditions is another benefit of the national implementation of the programme. Therefore, Green Key ensures that sustainability practices are not only effective but also culturally relevant.

With the growing awareness of environmental issues and a rising preference for sustainable travel experiences, tourists are seeking accommodation options that align with their values. The Green Key programme addresses this demand by providing a reliable and credible certification that assures tourists of a tourism establishment’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Kartikeya V. Sarabhai, Director of the Centre for Environment Education, emphasizes the deep-rooted Indian tradition of honoring guests by stating,

"'Atithi devo bhava' - the guest is highly honored in the Indian tradition. We hope to continue and enrich this tradition by supporting and recognizing responsible hospitality and a caring environment with the Green Key program."

Dr. Jagat Mangaraj, National Operator of Green Key India, explains

"Green Key will add an environmental value to hotels and hospitality services in India, keeping in mind the local context. With Green Key, hotel staff and tourists have the opportunity to make positive contributions to sustainability."

Finn Bolding Thomsen, Green Key International Director, adds:

“We are happy to have CEE as our new National Operator in India to develop our programme in the country, and we encourage any hotel or other tourism facilities eligible for Green Key in India to apply or contact our National Operator in Inda for more information about the programme.”

The launch of Green Key in India through the new National Operator marks an important milestone in promoting sustainable tourism practices within the country. As the Indian tourism sector continues to grow, the Green Key certification will play a vital role in contributing to India's commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage while embracing sustainable development.

About CEE

CEE is a national institution engaged in developing programmes and materials to increase awareness, action about the environment and sustainable development. CEE was established in 1984 as a centre of excellence in environment education, then supported by the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MOEF) in India.

Please contact our National Operator in India through this link.

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!”