Why Green Key?
There are many certifications for the tourism industry worldwide, based on different criteria and assessment methods. Green Key stands out for its high requirements, transparent certification process and international reach.
The most important reasons why your facility should join Green Key.
A high-quality certificate based on rigorous standards
Quality is central to the Green Key programme. It is ensured by, among other things, transparent programme rules, regular on-site audits carried out by properly trained Green Key auditors, and independent verification. Both the Green Key criteria and the certification process rules are publicly available, so it is possible to see exactly on what basis a facility received its certificate. The Green Key criteria are recognised at the international level.
A programme run by a non-profit organisation
Green Key is managed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — an international non-profit NGO. The programme is not run for profit, which helps keep participation costs relatively affordable.
Over 30 years of experience and support at every stage
Implementing sustainability principles across an entire organisation takes time and commitment. Green Key recognises that every facility is different and may face different challenges. That is why the programme is built on dialogue and support at every stage — from preparing the application through to certification. Green Key was launched in 1994 and has over 30 years of experience in environmental certification for the tourism industry. The knowledge and experience gathered within the programme are used to support both facilities applying for the certificate and those already certified.
An international certificate with national-level support
Green Key is one of the most geographically widespread certifications for the tourism industry, present in more than 90 countries. In many countries the programme is run by national Green Key operators. As a result, participants receive support in their own language, taking into account local regulations, conditions, customs and practices. This combines an international standard with practical support tailored to the realities of each country.
A multi-stakeholder programme
Green Key originated as an initiative of the tourism and hospitality industry, but today it is managed by an independent non-profit NGO — the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). This makes it possible to understand the realities of running tourism facilities while keeping the programme independent of the industry itself. Representatives of many different communities are involved in governing the programme and making decisions about it. In many countries certification decisions are made by national Green Key commissions, whose members include representatives of public administration, non-governmental organisations, and the tourism and hospitality sector. As a result, the programme is not shaped by a single body but built on the collaboration of many stakeholders.
International recognition
The Green Key programme has been recognised by UN Tourism and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and its criteria are recognised at the international level. Green Key also works with a wide range of partners, including hotel chains, booking platforms, international organisations, universities, and other bodies working to advance sustainable tourism.