First campsites in Spain certified with Green Key

Green Key Spain is thrilled to announce its two first Green Key certifications of campsites.

The programme operated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) certifies six different categories of hospitality establishments. That includes campsites and holiday parks. Now, Spain has obtained its first two certified campsites that meet stringent social and environmental criteria.

The Sandaya Cypsela campsite on the coast of Girona and the Gran Camping Zarautz in Guipuzcoa have been the first ones in the country to pass the independent audits and become certified.

The Sandaya Cypsela campsite is part of a bigger chain of camping sites. The chain has been actively implementing eco-conscious practices in its sites in France, with 37 of its establishments currently holding the Green Key certificate.

An impactful decision had been made to enhance the sustainability of the Spanish camping, leading to the recent certification. In order to raise environmental awareness of its guests, the campsite in the Costa Brava, Catalonia, offers multiple education activities related to the natural environment.

Gran Camping Zarautz in Guipuzcoa is located in the north of Spain, near the estuary of the river Inurritza, in an area of great natural value and in close proximity to a beach. It is open all year round and during the summer it organises the sale of local products to promote the local economy and zero-kilometer food products. 

Spain has been one of the leading countries with the highest number of Blue Flag awarded beaches. Now, the sustainable tourism and hospitality in the country is growing even further with the new Green Key certifications. In addition to these two campsites, there are more hotels being certified with Green Key in Spain. 

For more information, please visit: www.llaveverde.org 

A new collaboration agreement between BWH Hotels and the Green Key programme

A new agreement between BWH Hotels and Green Key will assist worldwide hotels in gaining Green Key sustainability certification. 

©Best Western Plus Time Hotel, Stockholm

In January 2024 BWH Hotels and Green Key International entered a new collaboration agreement encouraging hotels to adopt new sustainability measures and achieve sustainability certification. BWH Hotels established Green Key as an approved eco-certification program. After nine years of successful partnership between BWH Hotels and Green Key in Scandinavia, the collaboration is now moving to a worldwide scale.   

Celebrating more than 75 years of hospitality, BWH Hotels is an award-winning global family of approximately 4,300 hotels located in over 100 countries and territories offering accommodations for all types of travelers.  

Green Key is a voluntary program that aims to spread awareness and empower the hospitality industry to adopt more sustainable business practices. The iconic Green Key certificate has become a leading standard of excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. Only hospitality establishments that meet established criteria can pass the independent audits/verification and obtain the certificate. The Green Key criteria are recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). Today, there are more than 5,900 Green Key certified establishments in over 60 countries. 

Finn Bolding Thomsen, the Green Key International Director, shared: “We are always pleased to support any hotel in committing to more sustainable practices. However, the collaboration with BWH Hotels allows us to reach a significantly large number of new establishments. We are excited to take our partnership with BWH Hotels to the next level and work with their hotels all around the world.”  

Michael Morton, Senior Vice President, Brand Management and Member Services, adds:

"At BWH Hotels, our dedication to global sustainability shines through our 'Because We Care' initiative. This program underscores our commitment to the Earth, People and Communities in which we host guests. Through collaborative efforts with hoteliers, we empower communities by providing the necessary resources for impactful change. Additionally, our alliance with Green Key International strengthens our sustainability endeavors. Achieving Green Key certification not only demonstrates environmental responsibility but also enhances operational efficiency, expands business prospects, and fosters revenue growth." 

If you wish to learn more about the Green Key criteria, certified sites, or the certification process, visit our homepage, or contact us directly here. 

About BWH℠ Hotels 

BWH Hotels is a leading, global hospitality enterprise comprised of three hotel companies, including WorldHotels™, Best Western® Hotels & Resorts and SureStay® Hotels. The global enterprise boasts approximately 4,300 hotels in over 100 countries and territories worldwide*. With 19 brands across every chain scale segment, from economy to luxury, BWH Hotels suits the needs of developers and guests in every market. 

*Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline. 

The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman sets its sustainability benchmark with the Green Key certification

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman proudly announces its Green Key certification. The first certified hospitality establishment from the Cayman Islands enhances the eco-tourism offer of the destination.

© Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

"Achieving the Green Key certification is not just an honor; it’s a call to further action for a greener hospitality industry" said Marc Langevin, General Manager. "The certification highlights the resort’s dedication to environmental responsibility, allowing it to showcase its proactive efforts in adopting sustainable practices."

The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman has been delighted to share some of its diverse initiatives that have been implemented to elavate the establishment’s sustainability efforts.

The certified establishment also seeks to promote sustainability and grow staff engagement through the REACT (The Ritz-Carlton Environmental Action Conservation Team) programme. Once per month, the employees are invited to join a panel that aims to discuss, evaluate, and provide feedback on environmental and sociocultural projects. This way, the resort ensures wider community outreach and the integration of staff ideas into the Ritz-Carlton’s sustainability strategies. Educational initiatives and action days are employed to promote responsible behavior, such as a "No Bin Day" that encourages minimal food waste among staff.

© Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

Also, the resort's procurement strategy encompasses environmental stewardship and support for local industries by sourcing products that are organic, eco-labelled, fair-trade labelled, and locally produced. This includes a range of items such as local beers, spirits, and organic honey, reflecting the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman’s dedication to sustainable sourcing.

Apart from that, the certified establishment has integrated multiple eco-friendly practices into its day-to-day business operations that help to minimise the resort’s environmental impact, while saving both costs and natural resources.

© Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

For instance, Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman rigorously monitors its water usage and performs regular audits on that matter. By ensuring that over 75% of its all showers and taps do not exceed 9 liters and 8 liters per minute respectively, the establishment has successfully surpassed its sustainability targets.

Additionally, rainwater is collected from roof run-offs and later used for irrigation, minimising the resort’s dependence on processed water.

However, this is not the only waste-minisiming initiative that Ritz-Carlton has implemented. The establishment has proudly phased out single-use tableware in favor of sustainable alternatives - such as wooden cutlery and seaweed-based takeaway boxes. The organic waste is also repurposed through cooperation with local community projects, most notably Beacon Farm which utilizes the green waste provided by the resort for composting.

© Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

Last but not least, the Ritz-Carlton has adopted late conservation technology like high-efficiency dishwashers that consume only 0.52 gallons of water per basket. As all the other initiatives, this is part of the resort’s broader efforts to enhance operational efficiency and reduce its environmental impact.

About Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman

Nestled on the famous Seven Mile Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman offers guests an unparalleled luxury experience, integrated with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.

The resort, the first and only property in the Caribbean to earn Five Stars for its hotel, spa, and restaurant, Blue by Eric Ripert in the Forbes Travel Guide, is home to 369 luxuriously appointed rooms handcrafted by acclaimed Champalimaud Design. An elegant spa offers a bespoke collection of revitalizing and relaxing treatments, while six dining venues present guests with a diverse array of epicurean delights. In addition to a spectacular Greg Norman-designed nine-hole golf course, the resort also offers golf enthusiasts a state-of-the-art indoor simulator using Trackman technology.

© Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

Ideal for events of all sizes, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is home to the island’s largest ballroom as well as an interactive culinary studio. Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment family programming allows guests of all ages to discover the incredible flora and fauna of Cayman, while Starfish Cay water park, tennis and basketball courts and an indoor game room ensures guest young and old are entertained.

The Caribbean’s largest luxury suite configuration, Seven South offers nearly 18,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor living space replete with elegant interiors, personalized service, and amenities as well as breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Encompassing up to 9 bedrooms, including the three-bedroom Grand Penthouse, the private enclave is perched atop the resort’s Ocean Tower evoking a sense of being on top of the world. Each year, the resort and Chef Eric Ripert, welcome some of the world’s finest chefs and most discerning guests for Cayman Cookout.

More information about The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is available at www.ritzcarlton.com/grandcayman or by phone at +1 (345)943-9000.

Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott attains the Green Key certificate

Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott is thrilled to announce its attainment of the Green Key certificate, a testament to the company's unwavering dedication to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices within the hospitality industry.  

Green Key is recognised as the foremost standard for excellence in environmental and social sustainability within the hospitality sector. By obtaining the certification, Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott solidifies its commitment to guests, assuring them that their choice to stay with us actively contributes to positive environmental and social impacts.  

Months of diligent effort and a rigorous audit process have culminated in this significant achievement. Throughout this journey, Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott has made noteworthy efforts toward sustainability, implementing various initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint and fostering local biodiversity conservation. Notable changes include the transition from plastic-wrapped products to sustainable alternatives, as well as proactive measures to protect and preserve the surrounding ecosystem.  

"We are overjoyed to receive the Green Key certificate, as it underscores our steadfast commitment to sustainability," said Ms. Sinead O Reilly-Henell, the General Manager of Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott. "This achievement reflects our ongoing efforts to operate as a responsible steward of the environment while providing exceptional experiences for our guests." 

Qabila Westbay Hotel by Marriott extends heartfelt gratitude to our guests, partners, and stakeholders for their unwavering support throughout this journey toward sustainability: ‘Together, we continue to strive towards a greener future, one where environmental responsibility and hospitality excellence go hand in hand.’

Novotel Itu receives the Green Key certification as the first resort in Brazil

Novotel Itu Golf & Resort has recently obtained the Green Key certificate as the first resort in Brazil. The establishment has thereby become the Accor's 50th sustainability certification in the Americas. 

To mark this achievement, a certification ceremony took was organised, bringing together representatives from Green Key, Accor, along with the mayor of the city of Itu and authorities from local secretariats and the press. The significant role of the collaboration agreement between Green Key International and the Accor hospitality group was also highlighted. In Brazil, the certification procedure is coordinated by the Green Key National Operator, Instituto Ambientes em Rede (IAR).
 
In the process of meeting the Green Key criteria, Novotel Itu Golf & Resort has implemented several socio-environmental practices to minimise its impacts on the environment. Thanks to the elimination of all single-use plastic items, almost 215 thousand units of pet bottles and plastic cups in 2023 alone was saved. In addition, the resort has reduced its water consumption by 50% and reused more than 4 million litters for toilet flushing and garden irrigation. For its operation, Novotel Itu uses 100% energy from renewable sources from the Free Energy Market and has around 200 solar panels for water heating. 

Apart from its environmental practices, the resort also carries out and gets engaged in various social initiatives, thanks to its partnerships with local non-profit institutions. For example, Novotel Itu organises fundraisers to support the NGO Realidades, which promotes housing improvements for vulnerable families in the Itu region. Also, a collaboration with the NGO Aspa has been established, resulting in a part of hotel's pet stay rate being donated to support abandoned dogs taken in by the non-profit institution.

Carlos Jacobina, general manager of Novotel Itu Golf & Resort, expressed pride in achieving the Green Key certificate, emphasising the resort's ongoing commitment to sustainable practices:

"For us at Novotel Itu Golf & Resort, receiving Green Key certification is more than recognition; it is validation of our ongoing commitment to a more sustainable future. We are proud to make history as the first resort in Brazil to achieve this milestone and we intend to advance even further with new practices in our hotel to contribute to the environment and society”.

Leana Bernardi, national coordinator of Green Key, also emphasised the importance of this achievement:

“We are firmly convinced that efforts to reduce the environmental footprint in the hospitality industry play a crucial role in preserving our country's natural beauty. We observe a growing interest among tourists, managers of tourist establishments and public authorities in this direction. In addition to being an indicator of the institutions' commitment to sustainability, the program proactively responds to the growing demand from conscious tourists who seek accommodation options with environmental, social and responsible values”.

With Novotel Itu, Accor has officially reached the milestone of 50 sustainable certified hotels in the Americas. Antonietta Varlese, SVP of Sustainability and Communication at Accor Americas expressed her proud that the company's commitment to promoting sustainability in its operations, in line with ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions, brings measurable results.

About

Novotel Hotels, Suites & Resorts offers destination hotels designed as comforting, energizing places where guests can take a break and enjoy the moments that really matter. The brand's wide range of hotels, suites and resorts offer a wide range of services for business and leisure guests, including spacious, modular rooms with natural, intuitive design; 24/7 buffet service with nutritious options; dedicated meeting spaces; attentive and proactive team; family areas for younger guests; multipurpose lobbies and accessible fitness centers. Novotel, which has more than 530 locations in more than 60 countries, is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group with more than 5,500 properties in more than 110 countries. 

Park Hyatt St. Kitts receives the Green Key certificate

Park Hyatt St. Kitts has officially passed the third-party verification, becoming the first establishment in St. Kitts and Nevis to get certified with Green Key.

Elevating its standards for sustainable luxury, the hotel had managed to obtain the certificate, cosidering it a true testament to Park Hyatt St. Kitts’ dedication to meeting the internationally recognised standards for environmental and social responsibility.

As part of the adopted eco-friendly practices, the resort has prioritised incorporating efficient energy consumption and responsible water management, as well as, promoting sustainable solutions to its guests and the industry at large. Among these actions there is the installment of a desalination plant, which ensures a sustainable water supply for all hotel operations, and a reverse osmosis treatment system that recycles all water which is then used in the property’s irrigation system.

"Receiving the Green Key Certification is a proud moment for Park Hyatt St. Kitts," said Richard Elliott, General Manager of Park Hyatt St. Kitts. “This certification is a testament to our team's hard work and commitment to sustainable practices, and we are pleased to lead the charge toward a greener future in St. Kitts and Nevis."

The resort’s Director of Security, Safety & Environment Vance Rawlins, who spearheaded the application process, echoed Elliott’s sentiments and added, “Climate action starts with all of us - now.”

Park Hyatt St. Kitts’ commitment also extends to housekeeping and food & beverage services, where eco-friendly products take center stage, underscoring the hotel's dedication to minimising its environmental impact and working towards sustainable development goals.

Moreover, guests at Park Hyatt St. Kitts are invited to participate in the green movement through sustainable practices that enhance their stay and contribute to making a positive difference toward environmental protection. Offering choices such as reduced linen changes and selective use of single-use amenities showcases the resort's holistic approach to encouraging a greener and more ecologically responsible lifestyle.

About Park Hyatt St. Kitts

Park Hyatt St. Kitts is set within Christophe Harbor on Banana Bay with unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea and neighboring Nevis. The resort is home to 124 spacious accommodations, 77 guest rooms, and 47 suites, each with a private balcony or terrace. Amenities include beachfront activities, adult and family swimming pools, Sugar Mill Spa & Sanctuary, and The Island Fort by Camp Hyatt for kids. The resort offers three signature restaurants and a grab-and-go Banana Bay Market. The resort offers a Topgolf Swing Suite®, two outdoor pickleball courts and a half-basketball court. The Reception Hall features over 7,000 square feet of dedicated event space.

Park Hyatt St. Kitts is also an esteemed member of the St. Kitts Sustainable Destination Council, which is an advisory board to the destination’s Ministry of Tourism.

For more information, visit parkhyattstkitts.com.  

ibis Phuket Patong: navigating its way towards sustainable hospitality operations

Located in the heart of Patong, ibis Phuket Patong is a vibrant hotel offering a comfortable and affordable stay with a commitment to environmental sustainability. As part of the global ibis family, the hotel ensures a responsible and enjoyable experience for all guests, while adhering to high standards of eco-friendly practices.

Now, with their commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental responsibility, ibis Phuket Patong is delighted to hold the Green Key certification, that marks the hotel's unwavering dedication to adopting sustainable practices and its commitment to reducing its environmental impact. This certification is also a symbol of a promise to guests that, by choosing to stay at the ibis Phuket Patong, they are willing to make a positive difference in the world.

To obtain the certification, ibis Phuket Patong has implemented a series of stringent environmental management practices designed to reduce water and energy consumption, minimise waste production, as well as promote eco-friendly initiatives. Among these initiatives, the hotel has introduced measures such as the installation of energy-efficient lighting, water-saving devices in bathrooms, and implemented a comprehensive recycling program. 

In addition to its environmental efforts, ibis Phuket Patong is also committed to social responsibility, engaging in community outreach programs and supporting local sustainability efforts. The hotel's initiatives include organising beach clean-ups, participating in local reforestation projects and promoting environmental awareness among guests and staff. 

"We are honored to receive the Green Key certification," said Mr. Farouk Zourdani, General Manager of ibis Phuket Patong. "This achievement reflects our team's hard work and dedication to environmental conservation and sustainability. At ibis Phuket Patong, we believe in making a positive impact on our planet and our community, and we are committed to continuing our efforts to promote a more sustainable future." 

ibis Phuket Patong invites guests to experience eco-friendly accommodations and services that align with their values, offering a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious travelers visiting Phuket. 

The sustainable promise of Mercure Ibis Bangkok Sukhumvit 24 with the newly obtained Green Key certificate

Sukhumvit 24 is a hotel designed to meet the expectations of those who seek local and authentic experiences in one of the world’s most exciting cities. But the team of Mercure Ibis Bangkok Sukhumvit 24 believes in more than just providing excellent hospitality; that is why the hotel is proud to announce its official Green Key certification.

‘We are very committed to preserving the breathtaking paradise we call home.’ For Mercure Ibis Bangkok Sukhumvit 24 participation in the Green Key programme is a significant step towards a greener, more sustainable future of the place.

Located only 100m from BTS Skytrain Phrom Phong station and just a few minutes from the EmDistrict (Emporium, EmQuartier and EmQuartier), the hotel offers its guests an easy access to all the experiences that Bangkok has to offer. The place features 201 rooms and suites, a contemporary dining restaurant, stunning rooftop swimming pool, fitness center and flexible meeting facilities. 

The hotel management has expressed its excitmentment about the Green Key certificate as it marks the whole team's dedication to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices. From reducing its carbon footprint to conserving water and energy, all aspects of everyday operations aligns with the stringent standards of eco-friendly hospitality in many different ways. Sukhumvit 24’s sustainable promise to its guests includes:

• Conserving Nature: the hotel’s efforts ensure the beauty surrounding our hotel remains unspoiled for generations to come. By choosing Sukhumvit 24 guests contribute to preserving the local ecosystem.

• Reducing Waste: Mercure Ibis Bangkok Sukhumvit 24 is dedicated to minimising waste generation through recycling programs, composting initiatives and reducing single-use plastics on its premises. 

• Energy Efficiency: The commitment to energy-efficient systems means that the guests can have their environmental impact lower without compromising on comfort. 

• Sustainable Practices: From locally sourced organic food to eco-friendly cleaning products and amenities, partnerships with suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability are prioritised.

• Access to EV Station: The hotel has installed car charging stations for guests' convenience. 

• Eco-Conscious Arrivals: Guests are informed and encouraged to use green travel options for a comfortable and more sustainable stay, thanks to many convenient means of public transport within an easy reach of the hotel, and a partnerhip with a local cycle rental.

Additionally, guests are also offered to actively participate in some sustainable initiatives in during and after their stay. They are invited to embrace small eco-friendly habits, such as reusing towels, turning the lights off when not in use, or sharing their sustainable experiences at the hotel with friends and family, to promote environmentally responsible accommodations.

The newly Green Key certified hotel promises: ‘Every time guests choose Mercure Ibis Bangkok Sukhumvit 24, they're not just selecting a place to stay; they're making a positive impact on the planet. Together, we can continue to preserve paradise—one responsible stay at a time.

At Mercure Ibis Bangkok Sukhumvit 24, guests can join us in our commitment to a sustainable future and experience hospitality that cares for our world.’

First Green Key certification in Azerbaijan with JW Marriott Absheron Baku

JW Marriott Absheron Baku proudly announces its attainment of the Green Key certification, marking a significant step forward in the hotel's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. This achievement contributes to Marriott International's ongoing efforts to prioritise eco-conscious practices across its global portfolio. 

Behind the Green Key certification there is a rigorous evaluation of a hotel's environmental sustainability initiatives, encompassing criteria ranging from energy efficiency and waste management to community engagement and associate education. By meeting these stringent standards, JW Marriott Absheron Baku is declarating its committment to driving positive change within local communities and minimising the impact of the worldwide hospitality industry on environment.

As the first hotel in Azerbaijan to attain the Green Key certification, JW Marriott Absheron Baku wants to promote new standards for responsible and luxurious hospitality with unparalleled guest experiences and sustainability as a core element of everyday business operations.

"This accomplishment highlights our unwavering dedication to sustainability and responsible business practices," says Nilesh Singh, General Manager of JW Marriott Absheron Baku. "We are honored to receive the Green Key certification, which reflects our ongoing dedication to preserving the environment and supporting our local community." 

Marriott International's Green Key journey extends beyond individual properties, with each hotel playing a vital role in the collective effort to promote sustainability. Through comprehensive sustainability initiatives, Marriott International aims to become one of the leaders in environmentally-conscious hospitality, setting benchmarks for the industry as a whole. 

JW Marriott Absheron Baku remains resolute in its dedication to sustainability, spearheading positive change in Azerbaijan's hospitality landscape and nurturing a more sustainable future for generations to come. 
 

About JW Marriott Absheron Baku 
JW Marriott Absheron Baku serves as the ideal venue for those seeking to experience authentic Azerbaijani hospitality while enjoying JW Marriott signature standards of luxury. The hotel is located in walking distance from the Old City and 30 minutes away from the airport. From the refined elegance to the gracious comfort, JW Marriott Absheron Baku offers 237 ultimately exquisite guest rooms and suites that embrace quiet views of the Caspian Sea. Immerse yourself in unparalleled rooftop settings of the Absheron Spa & Fitness, with breathtaking views.

JW Marriott Absheron Baku features five dining venues to lead you on an authentic palatable experience. Vibrant all-day dining ZEST Lifestyle Cafe with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and energizing; blazing Fireworks Urban Kitchen serving perfectly prepared; sophisticated OroNero Bar & Ristorante offering classic and modern Italian dishes; relaxing The Tea Lounge with a vast selection of local, international and signature teas, fine pastries, chocolates and unique cocktails; dazzling Razzmatazz Cocktail Bar & Lounge - an exotic, buzzworthy bar with DJ and largest selection of beverages. Of particular note, Sharg Zali ballroom, which at 12,997 square feet is one of the largest in Baku. The luxury getaway of a lifetime awaits you at the JW Marriott Absheron Baku Hotel. Visit jwmarriottbaku.com, and on Instagram and Facebook. 

About JW Marriott 
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. The impressive array of award-winning hotels cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers seeking The JW Treatment™ – the brand's philosophy that true luxury is created by people who are passionate about what they do. These experiences help guests to be fully present, foster connections and feed the soul. Inspired by the principles of mindfulness, JW Marriott is a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together, act with intention and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are over 80 JW Marriott hotels in more than 25 countries and territories. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy™, the new name of Marriott’s travel program replacing Marriott Rewards®, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards®, and Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG). The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including earning points toward free hotel stays and nights toward Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit MarriottBonvoy.marriott.com.