Green Key Criteria
2026-2031
The Green Key 2026–2031 criteria came into effect on 27 September 2026 and set out the requirements that establishments must meet to obtain and maintain Green Key certification.
The criteria are developed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), as the Green Key scheme owner, in consultation with relevant experts and stakeholders. The 2026–2031 criteria were developed through an extensive 16-month revision process, involving six thematic working parties, approximately 60 meetings, and consultations with the Green Key National Operators, the wider FEE network, and around 70 external organisations representing more than 100 experts. The revised criteria were formally published in April 2026 following approval by the relevant Green Key governance bodies.
The criteria cover areas including environmental practices, social responsibility, sustainability education, and operational management. Certification involves a review of documented evidence and an on-site audit based on a representative sample of evidence to assess whether an establishment meets the applicable criteria at the time of assessment.
Explore the sections below to understand the certification requirements and access the relevant documents for your establishment category.
1. ESTABLISHMENT CATEGORIES
Green Key certification is available to six categories of tourism and hospitality establishments. Each category has a set of published criteria reflecting the types of operations and activities covered by the certification.
Select your establishment category below to access the applicable Green Key Criteria 2026–2031.
Hotel & Hostel
Campsite & Holiday Park
Small Accommodation
Not Sure Which Category Applies?
Consult the Category Definitions document for further information about the types of establishments covered by each category
Attraction
Restaurant
Conference Center
2. CERTIFICATION CRITERIA
What Do the Green Key Criteria Cover?
The Green Key criteria address different areas of an establishment's operations and activities, including environmental management, resource use, staff involvement, guest information, social responsibility, and operational management.
The specific requirements vary depending on the establishment category. Each criteria document sets out the requirements against which establishments are assessed.
The criteria are organised into seven areas, providing a framework for assessing the applicable activities and operations of participating establishments.
All Criteria Documents
For a consolidated overview, the criteria for all six establishment categories are also available in a single document.
3. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
The following documents provide additional information about the scope and terminology of Green Key certification.
Scope of Certification
The Scope of Certification document explains the activities and operations covered by Green Key certification and the boundaries of the assessment
Glossary
The Glossary provides definitions of key terms used in the Green Key criteria and supporting documents.
4. CONFORMITY WITH THE CRITERIA
To obtain and maintain Green Key certification, establishments must demonstrate conformity with the applicable criteria for their establishment category.
Imperative and Guideline Criteria
The Green Key criteria distinguish between two types of requirements:
Imperative criteria: Requirements that establishments must fulfil to obtain and maintain certification, subject to the applicable provisions in the criteria documents.
Guideline criteria: Additional criteria for which the required level of conformity increases during subsequent certification periods, as specified in the relevant criteria documents.
Establishments must fulfil all applicable imperative criteria and the required number of guideline criteria according to their certification stage.
Assessment and Renewal
The assessment process includes a review of documented evidence and an on-site audit based on a representative sample of evidence to determine whether the establishment meets the applicable criteria at the time of assessment.
Green Key certification is subject to regular assessments and periodic renewal requirements.
For detailed conformity requirements, establishments should consult the criteria document applicable to their category and contact their National Operator.
5. TRANSITION TO THE 2026–2031 CRITERIA
The Green Key 2026–2031 criteria were published in April 2026 and came into effect on 27 September 2026.
Transition arrangements may differ depending on whether an establishment is applying for certification for the first time or renewing an existing certification.
New Applicants
Establishments applying for Green Key certification should review the 2026–2031 criteria applicable to their category and contact their National Operator for guidance on the application and assessment process.
Currently Certified Establishments
Establishments already holding Green Key certification should consult their National Operator to confirm the applicable transition arrangements and requirements for their next assessment or renewal.
Comparison with the Previous Criteria
A comparison document is available to help identify changes between the 2022–2026 and 2026–2031 criteria.
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
For questions about the criteria, certification process, or requirements applicable to your establishment, please contact the Green Key National Operator in your country.
