Green Key welcomes EkoSfera as National Operator in Azerbaijan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Comfort Inn & Suites, the first large hotel in Tobago to receive the Green Key certification

Comfort Inn & Suites became the first large hotel in Tobago certified Green Key. This recognition marks a significant stride in the region’s journey towards eco-conscious travel and reinforces the growing trend of sustainable practices within the Caribbean tourism sector.

This recognition highlights the increasing importance of eco-friendly initiatives in the hospitality industry in Tobago, signaling a positive shift towards responsible tourism. Comfort Inn & Suites has demonstrated its commitment to environmental stewardship, from the installation of solar panels to the establishment of an electric car charging station on the property. These initiatives promote sustainable tourism in the Caribbean.

"The past year has been one of hard work and dedication," reflected Maria Yip-John, General Manager of Comfort Inn & Suites Tobago. "Our team’s commitment to innovation and sustainability has allowed us to make a positive impact on the environment. We encourage other tourism stakeholders in Tobago to embrace the Green Key programme and contribute to improving our communities."

Willard Harris, Director of Green T&T, who presented the certification, praised the hotel’s commitment. "This recognition underscores Comfort Inn & Suites’ leadership in ecological responsibility and sets a new standard for eco-friendly tourism in the Caribbean."

Wendell Walker, Director of Product Development and Destination Management also emphasised the significance of this achievement. "The certification of Comfort Inn & Suites strengthens Tobago's reputation as an eco-friendly destination. It promotes sustainable tourism, enhances the island's appeal, and aligns with the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited’s (TTAL) commitment to advancing the Green Key Programme."

The Green Key Certification, which has evolved over the past 30 years into the world’s leading sustainability certifications for establishments, is a globally recognised standard within the hospitality industry. Administered locally by Green T&T, the certification process evaluates environmental management, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and water conservation. Successful candidates are certified for one year, with the opportunity for renewal following subsequent assessments. The programme is widely embraced by leading hotel chains such as Hyatt, Marriott, and Accor Hotels.

Comfort Inn & Suites Tobago remains committed to advancing sustainable tourism and is eager to continue its leadership in promoting eco-friendly practices in Tobago. This achievement reflects the broader growth of sustainable tourism in Trinidad and Tobago, driven by the active participation of Green T&T as the National Operator.

Green T&T, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to sustainable tourism, played a pivotal role in this achievement. Through partnerships with hospitality establishments, the organisation fosters eco-friendly procedures and supports local communities. Their mission is to collaborate with hotels and resorts to achieve Green Key and Blue Flag Beach certifications, yielding benefits such as reduced environmental impact, cost savings through efficient resource management, and a competitive edge in attracting eco-conscious travellers.

For more information on Green T&T and the Green Key programme, please visit Green Key T&T – Green-TT or send an email to greenkey@green-tt.org. For additional information about Comfort Inn & Suites Tobago, please visit https://comfortsuitestobago.com/.

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Green Key is compliant with Travalyst criteria

We are happy to announce that Green Key criteria are fully compliant with Travalyst's sustainability criteria. For over 30 years, Green Key has championed responsible practices across the hospitality sector. This recognition further validates Green Key’s commitment to helping establishments reduce their environmental impact while meeting the highest standards in sustainable tourism.

We are pleased to share that Green Key has been independently reviewed and deemed compliant with Travalyst's criteria. Green Key will therefore be included in Travalyst's list of compliant sustainability certifications for accommodation providers; an initiative aiming to support certifications like us, through the evolving legislative landscape whilst providing consistency across travel booking platforms.

Travalyst's list is publicly available here.

About Travalyst: Founded in 2019 by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, Travalyst is a not-for-profit coalition of some of the biggest brands in travel and technology including Amadeus, Booking.com, Expedia Group, Google, Mastercard, Sabre, Skyscanner, Travelport, Trip.com Group and Visa. The coalition works pre-competitively to bring sustainability information to the mainstream to help people make more informed travel choices.

About Green Key: Green Key has been a pioneering force in sustainable tourism for more than 30 years, playing a critical role in promoting environmentally conscious practices across the hospitality industry. Launched in 1994, the certification has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most respected eco-certifications, currently operating in over 70 countries and certifying more than 6000 establishments globally, including hotels, hostels, campsites, and restaurants.

Green Key's certification process is rigorous and encompasses a broad range of criteria aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of the tourism and hospitality sectors. These include energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and environmental education. To achieve certification, establishments must demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices and undergo periodic audits to ensure continuous improvement.

In addition to offering certification, Green Key actively supports its members by providing guidance on sustainable management practices and helping businesses adapt to new environmental challenges. By fostering a culture of sustainability, Green Key-certified establishments not only reduce their ecological impact but also appeal to a growing market of eco-conscious travellers.

Green Key is more than just a certification programme; it is actively involved in various global initiatives and projects aimed at furthering sustainable tourism. Green Key collaborates with UN Tourism (World Tourism Organization), and other international bodies to promote best practices in the industry. Green Key also participates in education and outreach campaigns to raise awareness among both tourists and businesses about the importance of sustainability.

Green Key’s vision for the future involves continuously evolving its standards to address new sustainability challenges, such as carbon reduction, plastic pollution, and biodiversity preservation.

By achieving compliance with Travalyst criteria, Green Key reaffirms its position as a trusted leader in sustainable tourism and reinforces its dedication to supporting businesses that prioritise environmental responsibility.

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Diversey, a Solenis company, becomes the newest partner of Green Key International

Green Key and Diversey Southeast Asia have entered into a partnership aimed at raising awareness of sustainable cleaning products among hospitality establishments worldwide.

Green Key’s new partner, Diversey, a Solenis company, is a global brand with long-standing expertise and commitment to sustainable hygiene, infection prevention, and cleaning solutions. With over 100 years of experience, the company is dedicated to delivering products, services, and technologies produced with consideration for natural resources, the environment, and social impact.

The partnership focuses particularly on supporting Green Key applicant establishments in the Southeast Asia region, helping them meet Green Key criteria related to daily cleaning products.

“In our day-to-day work, we receive numerous inquiries about eco-friendly cleaning products from hospitality businesses across the world, including Southeast Asia. That interest is very apparent, and we are delighted to welcome Diversey as our newest partner.”

— Finn Bolding Thomsen, International Green Key Director

Diversey, provides its solutions to customers across six continents. Within its brand portfolio, clients can find products carrying renowned eco-labels, such as Nordic Swan, Green Seal, or the EU Ecolabel.

“Diversey continuously works to reduce its ecological footprint and generate value for its stakeholders. Looking ahead, we are optimistic about helping our hospitality customers thrive in an ever-changing global landscape and prioritise environmental and social responsibility through our partnership with Green Key.”

— Sherif Fahmy, Vice President of Diversey Southeast Asia

About Diversey
Diversey, a Solenis company, provides cleaning, hygiene, and infection prevention solutions for the hospitality, food service, healthcare, beverage, and processed food and dairy markets. These solutions, which include advanced chemicals, digital technologies, and value-added services, enable customers to build a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable world.
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About Solenis
Solenis, owned by Platinum Equity, is a leading global producer of specialty chemicals focused on delivering sustainable solutions for water-intensive industries, including pulp and paper, institutional, industrial, food and beverage, and pool and spa water markets. The company’s product portfolio includes a broad array of water treatment chemistries, process aids, functional additives, cleaners, disinfectants, and state-of-the-art monitoring, control, and delivery systems. These technologies are used by customers to improve operational efficiencies, enhance product quality, protect plant assets, minimize environmental impact, and create cleaner and safer environments. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, the company has 70 manufacturing facilities strategically located around the globe and employs a team of over 16,500 professionals in 130 countries across six continents. Solenis is a 2024 Best Managed Company Gold Standard honoree.

For additional information about Solenis, please visit www.solenis.com or follow us on social media.

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If you're looking to explore more ways your business can enhance its sustainability, check out our latest Good Practices from Green Key certified establishments across the globe. Discover innovative initiatives that can inspire your journey toward a greener future!

How NH Collection Nuremberg City achieved the Green Key certification as the first Minor Hotels property in Germany

NH Collection Nuremberg City recognises Green Key as the high-level sustainability standard within the hospitality sector. By obtaining the Green Key certification, the hotel reinforces its commitment to sustainability, assuring guests that their choice to stay contributes to positive environmental and social impact.

Achieving Green Key certification is a rigorous process that goes beyond meeting environmental standards; it’s about fostering a culture of sustainability within the hospitality industry. NH Collection Nuremberg City’s journey towards certification offers valuable insights for other hotels aspiring to enhance their sustainability efforts.

One of the key lessons from NH Collection Nuremberg City’s experience is the importance of implementing energy-efficient solutions. The hotel has successfully integrated energy-saving lighting and appliances throughout its facilities. For hotels looking to follow suit, starting with a comprehensive energy audit can help identify areas where energy use can be reduced. Simple measures, such as replacing incandescent bulbs with LED lighting, can make a significant difference in energy consumption.

Water conservation is another critical area where NH Collection Nuremberg City has made impactful changes. The installation of low-flow fixtures is a practical step that any hotel can take to reduce water usage. Additionally, hotels can educate guests on the importance of water conservation by placing informative signage in bathrooms and offering guests the option to reuse towels.

A robust recycling programme is essential for reducing waste and promoting environmental responsibility. NH Collection Nuremberg City has implemented a system that not only separates recyclable materials but also ensures that staff and guests are aware of how to properly dispose of waste. This waste sorting management can serve as inspiration for other hotels when considering to offer recycling stations in common areas and providing clear instructions on how to sort waste.

Sourcing locally-produced, organic food is another effective strategy that NH Collection Nuremberg City employs to reduce its carbon footprint while supporting the local economy. Hotels can explore partnerships with local farmers and suppliers to incorporate fresh, sustainable ingredients into their menus. This not only benefits the environment but also enhances the guest experience by offering authentic, locally-inspired cuisine.

Beyond environmental practices, NH Collection Nuremberg City’s commitment to social responsibility sets an example for how hotels can engage with their communities. Partnering with organisations like "Elterninitiative Krebskranke Kinder e.V." (Parents' Initiative for Children with Cancer) allows the hotel to provide meaningful support to those in need. Other hotels can consider similar partnerships with local charities and community groups to make a positive social impact.

Hotel director Ralph Meyer’s involvement in the Nuremberg Congress and Tourism Centre’s Sustainability Network highlights the importance of collaboration in advancing sustainable tourism. By sharing knowledge and resources, hotels can collectively raise industry standards and contribute to a more sustainable future. Hotels looking to make a difference can benefit from joining local or regional sustainability networks, where they can exchange ideas and collaborate on initiatives.

About: NH Collection Nuremberg City belongs to Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group operating over 550 hotels, resorts, and residences in 56 countries. As a hotel owner, operator, and investor, Minor Hotels fulfills the needs and desires of today’s global travellers through its diverse portfolio of eight hotel brands, next to NH also NH Collection, nhow, Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, Oaks and Tivoli. 

Check out their Corporate Sustainability Page!

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Hyatt Hotels Corporation establishes Green Key as a preferred partner in Asia Pacific

A new cooperation between Green Key and Hyatt Hotels Corporation has been signed, specifying Green Key as a preferred sustainability certification programme for the hotels in Asia Pacific.  

Yakitori Bar, Hyatt

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose – to care for people so they can be their best. As of March 31, 2024, the Company’s portfolio had more than 1,300 hotels and all-inclusive properties globally, including over 280 properties in Asia Pacific.

As the world evolves and new challenges emerge, Hyatt has advanced its global Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy through World of Care to care for the planet, people and responsible business. The global approach is derived by closely listening to what is most important to colleagues, guests, customers, hotel owners, investors and the communities in which Hyatt hotels operate around the world.

From reducing food waste to the eliminating use of single-used plastic, Hyatt teams across Asia Pacific are accelerating efforts toward Hyatt’s 2030 environmental goals – focused on areas of climate change and water conservation, waste and circularity, responsible sourcing and thriving destinations. Learn more at: https://about.hyatt.com/en/world-of-care.html

Andrew Mensforth, Senior Vice President Operations in Asia Pacific, said:

‘Aligning with World of Care, our global approach to advancing care for the planet, people and responsible business, we are pleased to collaborate with Green Key as we continue our ongoing efforts to cultivate sustainability knowledge across our hotels in the region’. 

Finn Bolding Thomsen, International Green Key Director, also expressed his enthusiasm:

‘It is great to see an important hotel chain like Hyatt recognising the sustainability and educational value of partnering with Green Key, and choosing as a preferred certification programme partner. We are really looking forward to seeing more of Hyatt’s hotels in Asia Pacific adopting the Green Key criteria and validating their sustainability efforts against the certificate’. 

Ecolab Asia Pacific and Green Key International hold a sustainability industry webinar strenghtening the focus on green hospitality

In partnership with Green Key International, Ecolab, the global leader in water and infection prevention solutions, successfully conducted an insightful industry webinar across the Asia Pacific Hotel Industry.

The event explored the future of environmental responsibilities and the ongoing efforts to reduce the hospitality industry's carbon footprint. The webinar featured a compelling discussion on the growing importance of the Green Key certification programme and the progressive shift toward sustainability in the Asia Pacific’s hospitality industry.

Claudia Bogensperger, Green Key International Coordinator and Project Manager, shared the transformational journey the hospitality industry must undertake to become certified and highlighted the pivotal role Green Key plays in guiding the industry toward a greener future. Claudia emphasised Green Key’s dedication to supporting the industry in adopting environmentally friendly and socially sustainable practices.

The webinar also highlighted Ecolab’s innovative approaches to advancing environmental goals, demonstrating real-world applications of their pioneering solutions designed to counteract environmental concerns without compromising productivity.

Ricarda Schneider, Director for Sustainability at Marriott Asia Pacific (excluding China), and Lionel Kapetanakos, Asia Pacific Vice President for Ecolab, were key voices representing seasoned practitioners in the hotel industry.

Schneider remarked, ‘Marriott’s commitment to sustainable development resonates with the core tenets of the Green Key certification programme. These discussions are more than just a dialogue about the future - they are the groundwork for a shift in our industry's approach to the environment. The hotel sector needs to unite more than ever to develop a common vision for sustainability. Together, we can significantly lessen our overall environmental effect and meet the increasing expectations for sustainable practices by combining our knowledge and resources. Collaborating as an industry is essential to bringing about significant and effective change’.

Lionel Kapetanakos from Ecolab added, ‘This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our mission to forge a more sustainable future for the hospitality industry. Ecolab's science-based solutions, coupled with the Green Key certification programme, provide a clear path for hotels and accommodations to distinguish themselves as environmentally responsible businesses’.

The webinar united thought leaders, business executives and sustainability champions, fostering a shared vision for a more sustainable and responsible hospitality sector.

About Ecolab

A trusted partner for millions of customers, Ecolab (NYSE:ECL) is a global sustainability leader offering water, hygiene and infection prevention solutions and services that protect people and the resources vital to life. Building on a century of innovation, Ecolab has annual sales of $15 billion, employs more than 48,000 associates and operates in more than 170 countries around the world. The company delivers comprehensive science-based solutions, data-driven insights and world-class service to advance food safety, maintain clean and safe environments, and optimize water and energy use. Ecolab’s innovative solutions improve operational efficiencies and sustainability for customers in the food, healthcare, life sciences, hospitality and industrial markets. Find out more at www.ecolab.com

Trinidad’s first certified hotel implements effective waste solutions

Hyatt Regency Trinidad has recently become the first hotel in Trinidad to pass the Green Key certification process. In order to meet the Green Key criteria, the establishment had implemented multiple measures to lower its environmental footprint.

L-R: Videsh Maharaj, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, Willard Harris, Director of Green T&T, Mr. Cliff Hamilton, Chairman of Trinidad Tourism Limited, June Quashie, Hyatt Regency Trinidad, Michael Hooper, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Trinidad, Patrick Borely, Director of Engineering and Lead of Green Team, Hyatt Regency Trinidad 

To celebrate this success and make the hotel’s committment to sustainability more visible for both guests and employees, a certification ceremony has been organised. On the 22nd of May a Green Key flag was officialy raised and the certificate was handed to Hyatt Regency Trinidad.

Michael Hooper, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Trinidad, remarked:

"We are excited and proud to be the first hotel in Trinidad to be a Green Key certified establishment. This distinction signifies our ongoing commitment not only as part of the growing number of Hyatt hotels worldwide achieving this status, but also as leaders spearheading environmentally responsible practices." 

The hotel had adopted various improvements and strategies to mitigate its negative environmental impacts and comply with the Green Key requirements. That includes incorporating comprehensive recycling programs into hotel’s operating procedures and substiting single-use plastics with eco-friendly alternative.

Also, the energy waste had been addressed thanks to implementing advanced energy-saving systems that reduced the overall energy consumption.

Patrick Borely, Director of Engineering at the hotel, has been the one diligently serving as the hotel's liaison and preparing its application for certification. He commented:

“The Hyatt Regency Trinidad is pleased to have a local operator in Trinidad and Tobago that facilitated and worked together with us to bring the certification to reality. I would definitely encourage other hotels in Trinidad to adopt the Green Key criteria as it would help to lift the sustainability standards of the industry”.

In Trinidad and Tobago, Green T&T serves as the National Operator for the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Green T&T is responsible for the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the Green Key program within the country. Working in partnership with government agencies, tourism stakeholders, and hospitality establishments, Green T&T promotes sustainable practices, raises awareness about environmental conservation, and drives the growth of ecotourism. 

During the ceremony, the certificate was handed to Hyatt Regency by Willard P. Harris, Green T&T Director, who summarised:

“As the first hotel in Trinidad to become Green Key certified, Hyatt Regency Trinidad serves as an inspiration and leader in the industry. After almost a year of preparation and fulfilment of stringent criteria, the achievement is significant, and the hotel now plays a pivotal role in fostering a more sustainable and responsible tourism industry”. 

The CEO of Green T&T, Joanna Moses-Wothke added:

"Chain hotels that prioritise environmental sustainability play a critical role in combating global climate change, while simultaneously achieving cost savings and enhancing their brand reputation. We applaud Hyatt Regency Trinidad for their unwavering commitment to obtaining environmental certification and aspire for it to serve as an exemplary model within the industry. " 

This accolade highlights the hotel's dedication to sustainable operations and environmental stewardship. By obtaining Green Key certification, Hyatt Regency Trinidad not only enhances its reputation but also serves as an inspiration for other hotels to pursue similar eco-friendly initiatives. 

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Green T&T

For more information on Green T&T and the Green Key programme, please visit www.green-tt.org or email greenkey@green-tt.org.

If you wish to learn about more initiatives that your business can implement to elavate its sustainability, discover our lastest Good Practices from Green Key certified establishments all around the world.

Australian Sustainable Destinations Alliance to become the Green Key National Operator for Australia

The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) is pleased to announce that Australian Sustainable Destinations Alliance (“SDA”) is taking over the coordinating role for the Green Key programme on the national level.

SDA has been established to meet the growing demand from venues and travellers in the Australian market for sustainability certification programmes with transparent and rigorous standards in the areas of both environmental and social responsibility. Based on those criteria, a decision to establish the national management of the Green Key programme has been made.

As a registered not-for-profit (NFP) organisation, the core objective of SDA is to empower Australians of all ages and backgrounds to become active environmental stewards through impactful education, engagement, and recognition. SDA hopes to use the stringent sustainability criteria of the Green Key programme as a national benchmark for sustainable practices in the hospitality sector, with the cornerstone elements for achieving this being:

● Empowerment: To equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and motivation to make a positive impact on the environment.

● Inclusivity: To strive to reach all Australians, regardless of age, background, or location.

● Impactful Education: To deliver engaging and effective programs that foster environmental awareness and action.

● Engagement: To create opportunities for individuals to connect with nature, participate in sustainability initiatives, and advocate for positive change.

● Recognition: To acknowledge and celebrate achievements in environmental stewardship through the Green Key program.

The SDA team is already actively engaged with the promotion of the Green Key programme. The positive reception and strong interest from various stakeholders are believed to reflect the commitment of industry professionals to creating a more sustainable future for Australian tourism.

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For enquiries please contact: greenkey@austsda.org