Green Key and BeCause: A Data-Driven Partnership Transforming Sustainable Tourism


In the evolving landscape of sustainable tourism, Green Key, an international certification for the tourism industry, has found a transformative ally in BeCause—a tech solution designed to enhance data management. This collaboration is built on a mutual desire for innovation within the tourism sector and a shared vision for a greener future.
The challenge: Navigating data complexity
Finn Bolding Thomsen, the International Director of Green Key, oversees the program's global development and coordination. His role involves strategic planning, establishing new criteria for certification, and fostering international partnerships with hotel chains. However, Finn faced significant challenges in data management. The manual collection and delivery of information regarding certified properties were cumbersome and prone to errors. He recognized that connecting with international partners without accurate data could jeopardize Green Key’s credibility and mission. Similarly, Chiara Cottone, the International Coordinator of Green Key, is responsible for managing data from national operators and ensuring data integrity. She encountered difficulties in helping partners understand the importance of accurate data submission, often spending hours clarifying discrepancies. The existing systems were inadequate, leading to frustration and inefficiency.
Partnering with BeCause
When BeCause initially approached Green Key with a potential solution to streamline their data processes, they were unsure about working with a relatively new player in the market. However, after reviewing BeCause's capabilities and understanding their shared goals, they decided to embark on this partnership. BeCause offered a modern platform that could automate data transfer to online travel agencies (OTAs) like accommodation booking websites.
The partnership began with the development of a central database for all certified establishments – allowing Green Key national operators to upload data directly into the BeCause hub from their own systems. This was a game-changer for Green Key. The transition from manual processes to an automated system allowed them to focus more on their core mission—promoting sustainable practices within the tourism industry.
Transformative impact: Streamlining operations
The implementation of BeCause’s technology marked a significant turning point for Green Key. With automated data management, there were immediate improvements in efficiency. The development team at BeCause was responsive and adaptable to Green Key's needs, ensuring that their requirements were met throughout the process. The BeCause hub enabled Green Key to extract lists of certified establishments easily and validate data more effectively. This newfound efficiency meant that Green Key can spend more time engaging with members rather than getting bogged down in administrative tasks.
Building relationships: A shared vision for sustainability
As the collaboration deepened, Green Key began to see BeCause not just as a service provider but as a vital partner in their mission for sustainability. They appreciated BeCause’s commitment to understanding their unique challenges and tailoring solutions accordingly. Henceforth, Green Key has since recommended BeCause to other industry professionals, emphasizing its role as a key player in centralized sustainability data management within tourism, due to its high potential and cost-effectiveness.
Looking ahead: A partnership for growth
The partnership between Green Key and BeCause exemplifies how technology can empower organizations committed to sustainability. The story of how BeCause is helping Green Key expand its certification mission is one of innovation meeting purpose—a testament to what can be achieved when organizations unite under a common goal of fostering sustainable practices in tourism. As they continue this journey together, Green Key are not only transforming their operations but also setting a benchmark for others in the tourism sector to follow.
They came with a potential solution to a problem we've had a long time, namely, how do we transfer the general information about certified establishments to booking.com and other data similar OTAs.
Finn Bolding Thomsen | International Director of Green Key
Want to learn how BeCause can help your hotel, or hotel group become eco-certified? Read more.
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