Green Key Certification: Driving Sustainable Tourism with Robust Eco-Label Standards
Green Key Certification: Leading Sustainable Tourism with Global Eco-Label Standards
Green Key is a leading international certification that promotes sustainable tourism and environmental responsibility in the hospitality industry. Established in 1994, Green Key sets rigorous standards for hotels, restaurants, and attractions worldwide, ensuring they meet the highest criteria for sustainability, resource conservation, and social responsibility.
As of February 2025, over 7,500 hotels and other establishments across more than 80 countries proudly display the Green Key certification. This certification assures guests that by choosing these establishments, they are contributing to a more sustainable destination.
Certified businesses have demonstrated their commitment to responsible tourism by adhering to rigorous standards, including energy and water conservation, waste management, and staff education on environmental issues. These sustainable tourism practices are at the core of the Green Key certification program.
The Green Key certification is available toa wide range of establishments, including hotels, hostels, small accommodations, campsites, holiday parks, conference centres, restaurants, and attractions. The certification process involves regular audits and continuous improvement to ensure ongoing compliance with environmental standards.
By staying at a Green Key certified establishment, travelers can enjoy their experiences knowing they are supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability and environmental stewardship.
What does the Green Key certification ensure for sustainable tourism?
- Adherence to rigorous environmental and social criteria.
- High-level integration of sustainability in management and operations.
- Reduction in resource consumption.
- Creation of awareness and behavioral changes.
- Increased utilization of environmentally friendly and sustainable methods.
- Regular on-site audits and third-party verification.
- Requirement for continuous improvement.
Learn more about our sustainability solutions to support your efforts.
Who can apply for the Green Key certification in hospitality and tourism?
Green Key offers its sought-after certificates to six categories of establishments! From hotels and hostels to campsites and restaurants, the certificate recognizes the commitment of various businesses toward sustainable practices. Below we list the diverse types of establishments eligible to apply for a Green Key certificate, highlighting the inclusive nature of the program.
- Hotels and Hostels
- The Green Key certification for hotels and hostels applies to larger establishments with more than 15 rooms. These include everything from urban hotels to spacious hostels, all committed to offering comfortable stays with a strong focus on environmental and social responsibility.
- Campsites and Holiday Parks (CHP)
- This category covers a range of outdoor accommodations, including traditional campsites, eco-camps, desert camps, and holiday parks. Whether you're in a tent or a cabin, these places aim to minimize their environmental impact while enhancing the natural experience.
- Small Accommodations (SA)
- Smaller-scale lodgings such as boutique hotels, guesthouses, bed & breakfasts, eco-lodges, and eco-farms (with up to 15 rooms) fall under this category. They offer a more intimate stay while upholding Green Key’s sustainability standards.
- Conference Centres (CC)
- For venues that host meetings, events, or corporate functions—without providing overnight accommodation—Green Key certification ensures these spaces operate efficiently and sustainably, reducing their overall environmental footprint.
- Restaurants (R)
- Standalone restaurants and cafés can also achieve Green Key certification. These establishments focus on sustainable dining practices, from sourcing local ingredients to managing waste responsibly.
- Attractions (A)
- Tourist attractions such as museums, interpretation centres, and theme parks are also eligible for certification. Green Key attractions are dedicated to providing enjoyable and educational experiences while promoting sustainable operations.
Which topics are covered within the criteria?
Green Key covers a wide range of topics within its criteria and ensures that certified establishments adhere to a comprehensive set of sustainable practices. Below we list the 13 topics covered within the Green Key criteria, highlighting the holistic approach to sustainability embraced by the program.
1. Environmental management:
Establishments must implement comprehensive environmental policies and action plans. For instance, they are required to monitor their energy consumption monthly and identify opportunities for improvement. Additionally, they should calculate their carbon footprint and set targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Staff involvement:
Staff members should be actively engaged in the establishment's environmental initiatives. This includes receiving training on sustainability practices and participating in regular environmental meetings.
3. Guest information:
Guests should be informed about the establishment's environmental efforts and encouraged to participate. This can involve providing information on energy-saving measures and offering options to offset their carbon footprint.
4 Water:
Efficient water use is essential. Criteria include installing water-saving devices on taps and showers, regularly checking for leaks, and using water-efficient appliances.
5. Washing and cleaning:
Sustainable practices in washing and cleaning operations, such as using eco-friendly products, optimizing water usage, and minimizing the use of harmful chemicals, are key criteria for Green Key certification.
6. Waste:
Waste management practices should minimize environmental impact. Establishments are expected to separate waste for recycling, reduce single-use plastics, and implement measures to prevent food waste.
7. Energy:
Energy efficiency is a key focus. This involves using energy-efficient lighting and appliances, monitoring energy consumption, and exploring renewable energy sources.
8. Food & beverage:
Sustainable food practices are encouraged. Examples include offering organic or locally sourced products, providing vegetarian options, and minimizing food waste.
9. Indoor environment:
Maintaining a healthy indoor environment is important. Criteria cover aspects like ensuring appropriate smoking policies, using non-toxic products, and controlling indoor air quality.
10. Green areas:
Outdoor spaces should be managed sustainably. This includes using native plants, avoiding chemical pesticides, and creating habitats for local wildlife.
11. Corporate Social Responsibility:
Green Key recognizes the significance of social responsibility and encourages establishments to contribute positively to local communities and engage in ethical practices.
12. Green activities:
Certified establishments are encouraged to offer sustainable activities that connect guests with nature, raise awareness about the local environment and culture, and promote sustainable behaviour in the destination.
13. Administration:
Green Key emphasizes the importance of integrating sustainable practices into the administrative aspects of establishments, including the back office and staff areas, procurement, and supply chain management.
Within the 13 core categories of criteria (as listed above), there are two types of criteria in each category; both imperative and guideline criteria.
To achieve certification, an establishment must meet all of the imperative criteria, which are non-negotiable standards. Over time, as businesses continue their Green Key journey, they’re also required to meet an increasing percentage of the guideline criteria. These guidelines evolve as businesses grow and improve their sustainability efforts.
Additionally, Green Key’s national programs have the flexibility to adapt and strengthen criteria based on local needs, while still aligning with the overarching international standards. This means that each country can tailor the program to support its unique sustainability challenges while maintaining consistency with global goals.
For a detailed overview of Green Key criteria, visit the Green Key official criteria page.
How to apply for Green Key certification
Applying for Green Key is a collaborative and transparent process. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Contact your national Green Key operator.
They’ll provide initial guidance and help you get started. If there is no national Green Key office in your country, contact Green Key International.
Step 2: Complete the application form and submit supporting documentation
Fill in the required details about your establishment and its sustainability practices and provide evidence that your business meets the relevant Green Key criteria.
Step 4: On-site audit
A trained Green Key auditor will visit your establishment to verify compliance.
Step 5: Evaluation and certification decision
Your application and audit results are reviewed.
Step 6: Receive your Green Key certificate
Once approved, your certification is valid for one year.
Step 7: Annual renewal
To maintain your certification, you’ll repeat the process yearly, with updated documentation and continued improvements.
You can learn more about the application process here: Green Key — Green Key application process
Why the Green Key certification stands out in sustainable tourism—the benefits of the program
In a world full of sustainable tourism certifications (there are more than 200!), Green Key is a standout. Here's what makes it one of the leading ecolabels in the industry:
A Rigorous, transparent process
Green Key's certification process is built on quality and transparency. It includes regular on-site audits by trained auditors, third-party verification, and clearly outlined criteria available for anyone to view.
Non-profit driven, affordable participation
Managed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Green Key is a non-profit program that keeps participation costs low, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.
Support every step of the way
With over 30 years of experience, Green Key understands the unique challenges each business faces in going green. The program offers support throughout the entire certification journey, from initial application to final certification.
Global reach with local support
Green Key operates in 80+ countries with over 7,500 certified establishments. National Green Key operators provide localized support, ensuring you receive advice tailored to your country’s regulations and customs.
Independent, multi-stakeholder program
Green Key was founded by the tourism and hospitality industry but is now managed by FEE, ensuring it remains independent. National juries, made up of representatives from various sectors, ensure the program is fair and unbiased.
International recognition
Green Key is recognized by high-profile entities like UN Tourism and UN Environment, and works closely with global partners in the tourism sector, including hotel chains and booking platforms.
Showcasing your success
Green Key celebrates your sustainability achievements by promoting your establishment through social media, newsletters, and its website. Certified businesses are also featured in the Green Key Good Practice Initiative, which shares inspiring sustainability stories.
In summary, Green Key provides valuable guidance for promoting and enhancing sustainable practices. By embracing the Green Key certification, establishments demonstrate their commitment to environmental and social responsibility and position themselves as leaders in the global movement toward sustainable tourism.
Frequently Asked Questions about Green Key Certification
- What is the Green Key certification?
- Green Key is an international eco-label for tourism establishments that meet strict sustainability criteria.
- How do I apply for Green Key certification?
- The application process involves contacting your national Green Key operator, submitting documentation, and undergoing an on-site audit. Coming soon you can do the certification application using BeCause's Certifcation Co-pilot. Find out more.
Additional useful sources:
Ready to make your business more sustainable? Contact us today to learn how we can support your certification journey.
More resources.
No spam, ever. Unsubscribe anytime.