Opening Doors to Sustainable Tourism in Democratic Republic of the Congo: Novotel Kinshasa

Located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Novotel Kinshasa La Gombé has recently been awarded the Green Key certification, an international recognition of the hotel’s environmental responsibility and a guarantee of its commitment to sustainable operations. 

Sustainable Practices at Novotel Kinshasa 

Accor has long been committed to sustainability, and Novotel Kinshasa has embraced this mission by embedding sustainable practices into its daily operations, setting an example for hospitality in Kinshasa. A wide range of initiatives have been introduced, from food waste reduction to responsible purchasing. 

The property is now fully LED-equipped, and staff members can rely on environmentally friendly cleaning products. Initiatives to reduce water consumption have also been implemented: in housekeeping, guests are encouraged to reuse sheets and towels to help conserve significant amounts of water. Meanwhile, the technical team closely monitors leaks or malfunctioning taps to prevent waste. 

Novotel Kinshasa has also adopted more responsible purchasing habits, such as sourcing food from local markets, avoiding endangered species, and choosing sustainable alternatives wherever possible. The hotel is now plastic-free—described by the property as “a particularly meaningful achievement in a country where plastic is still widely used.” While implementing these changes was not without challenges, the hotel’s determination and consistent effort have paid off. 

Team Efforts and Engagement 

In Kinshasa, sustainability awareness remains at an early stage. Recycling and sustainable practices are not yet widespread, but Novotel Kinshasa’s team has become deeply engaged and passionate about sustainability. Through training and day-to-day practice, they have embraced initiatives such as food waste reduction and plastic elimination in guest-facing areas. 

Reaching this level of engagement required months of preparation, onboarding, and reinforcement. For example, when implementing waste sorting, staff needed ongoing reminders to ensure compliance. Similarly, sorting plastics required significant adjustments, but the team demonstrated remarkable commitment to change. 

Staff members continue to take part in workshops and training sessions to deepen their understanding of sustainability and its importance. These efforts illustrate that meaningful change in the tourism sector relies heavily on the dedication of employees working behind the scenes. 

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Events, Collaboration, and Partnerships 

Over the past two years, Novotel Kinshasa has organised and participated in several sustainability events. A city clean-up day mobilized staff to collect waste, which was then delivered to one of the few recycling companies in Kinshasa. For Earth Day, the hotel planted trees—a symbolic gesture reflecting its long-term commitment. These initiatives were made possible through collective and enthusiastic team participation. 

The hotel has also forged impactful partnerships. With FANYA Association, an NGO dedicated to promoting sustainability and youth engagement in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Novotel Kinshasa has carried out awareness-raising actions such as street clean-ups. Another partnership with Green Africa / AfriFuture ensures that used cooking oils from the hotel are collected and transformed into new products such as soaps and green fuels. Through these collaborations, Novotel Kinshasa continues to reinforce its role as a leader in responsible hospitality while contributing to local environmental initiatives. 

A Milestone for Hospitality in Kinshasa 

With the Green Key certification, Novotel Kinshasa La Gombé establishes itself as a benchmark for sustainable hospitality in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The hotel not only enhances the guest experience but also contributes to the local community by actively advancing sustainable tourism. 

About Novotel Kinshasa La Gombé 

Opened just two years ago, Novotel Kinshasa La Gombé, part of the Accor Group, is a modern hotel designed to meet the needs of both business and leisure travelers, with a strong commitment to sustainability. Located in the heart of Gombe, Kinshasa’s business and diplomatic district, the hotel offers contemporary accommodations, refined dining options, and versatile meeting spaces. 

Visit Novotel Kinshasa La Gombé here. Novotel Kinshasa La Gombe, Hotel in Democratic Republic Of Congo - ALL 

Advancing sustainable hospitality through responsible cleaning

How certified plant-based cleaning products contribute to measurable sustainability in the hospitality sector.

As global tourism continues to grow, the hospitality industry faces increasing expectations to reduce its environmental impact. At Green Key, we recognise that sustainability must be integrated into all aspects of hotel operations—including daily cleaning practices. 

While often overlooked, cleaning operations can significantly affect a property's environmental and health performance, from chemical usage and water consumption to indoor air quality. That’s why more hotels are moving toward verified, plant-based cleaning solutions that deliver measurable results.  

As part of our commitment to driving continuous improvement in hospitality, Green Key includes a criterion related to chemical use in daily cleaning. Specifically, we require that at least 75% of all chemical cleaning products used on a daily basis carry a recognised eco-label. This ensures that the majority of products used by certified properties meet strict standards for environmental responsibility, formulation safety, and overall impact. Choosing such products isn’t just about ticking a box—it reflects a broader commitment to responsible operations and transparent sourcing. 

Why responsible cleaning is integral to certification goals 

Properties pursuing or maintaining Green Key certification are expected to demonstrate clear action in areas such as chemical management, resource efficiency, and health and safety. Conventional cleaning products often rely on fossil-derived ingredients, single-use plastic packaging, and synthetic additives—all of which contribute to emissions, waste, and long-term environmental degradation. 

Responsible cleaning offers a practical and impactful path forward: one that aligns with the criteria of Green Key certification while supporting the well-being of staff, guests, and the wider environment. 

Certified solutions backed by independent assessment 

Our partner Diversey's SURE™ product range provides an example of a science-based, independently certified solution. These products are: 

• Plant-based from renewable rescources* and derived from agro-food waste—using materials that would otherwise be discarded. 

• 100% biodegradable, verified by OECD 301B testing standards. 

• Free from synthetic dyes and petrochemical ingredients, helping reduce chemical exposure and pollution. 

• Up to 100% recycled plastic, SURE packaging is made up to 100% Post Consumer Recycled plastic the reduce the amount of virgin plastic and plastic pollution. 

• Third-party certified, including EU Ecolabel and Cradle to Cradle Certified™ Gold, ensuring transparency and accountability across product lifecycles. 

These certifications are reviewed regularly, providing ongoing assurance of compliance with high environmental and safety standards. 

Supporting the 4 Pillars of net positive hospitality 

Diversey’s  recent innovations aligns with Green Key’s vision of Net Positive Hospitality, where hotels actively contribute to regeneration and community well-being. Responsible cleaning directly supports this ambition by adding value across four key areas: 

• People 
  Products formulated to achieve the lowest  hazard classifications reduce health risks for cleaning staff and guests. Simplified labelling also aids safe handling and staff training. 

• Planet 
  The formulations are 100% biodegradable (based on independent assessments) and made from renewable, non-petrochemical sources. They reduce chemical and plastic pollution and help conserve water and energy, contributing to lower emissions and the protection of ecosystems. 

• Place 
  By embracing circularity and using products certified by Cradle to Cradle™, hotels become stewards of local environmental health. They reduce waste, support regenerative design principles, and can engage with suppliers that share sustainability values. 

• Prosperity 
  Efficient use of resources, combined with reduced waste and simplified processes, creates long-term operational savings. At the same time, it enhances brand reputation and supports compliance with sustainability standards and customer expectations. 

A practical step toward certification and continuous improvement 

For hotels committed to responsible tourism and high sustainability standards, reviewing and updating cleaning practices is a meaningful step. Adopting third-party certified cleaning products supports Green Key criteria related to chemical use, staff health and safety, waste management, and environmental communication. 

What circular cleaning looks like in practice 

Certified, plant-based products like SURE™ exemplify the principles of circularity—using waste as a resource, minimizing harm, and enabling continuous improvement. They allow hotels to move beyond reducing impact and begin actively contributing to more sustainable outcomes. 

For properties already certified, this represents a clear opportunity to enhance performance. For those beginning their Green Key journey, it is a strong foundation for building credibility and resilience. 

Discover the full SURE™ range here: 

Plant based professional cleaning products SURE™ 

Disclaimer 

This article includes sustainability-related claims supported by third-party certifications (EU Ecolabel, Cradle to Cradle Certified™ Gold), internal performance data, and independent lab testing (e.g., OECD 301B biodegradability assessment). Environmental impact claims (e.g. CO₂ reduction) are based on modelled comparisons with conventional, high-temperature or ready-to-use products and may vary with actual usage. For full methodology, verification data, or certificate references, please contact Solenis. 

How Lagoonies Bistro & Bar became the first awarded establishment in Sint Maarten

Green Key International and Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) Foundation are proud to announce a major milestone in sustainable tourism: the first restaurant Green Key certification in Sint Maarten has officially been awarded to Lagoonies Bistro & Bar

This prestigious certification, which represents excellence in environmental and sustainable operations within the hospitality industry, was formally presented by the Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), Mr. Patrice Gumbs, to Mrs. Olivia Roudon, owner of Lagoonies, during a celebratory event on Thursday, August 14. The certification process reflects over a year of hard work to improve operations and reduce their environmental footprint. 

Reflecting on the longer journey, Mrs. Roudon recalled, “It took 11 years to get here. I remember when we first removed the plastic straws almost 10 years ago, followed by phasing out plastic sauce packets, and replacing plastic water bottles with a free-to-use water fountain, until eventually we eliminated all single-use plastics. We faced many challenges along the way, from ‘Monday no meat no fish’ to offering vegan options as good and creative as the other dishes, and managing the financial costs. It truly has been a team effort and a shared journey that we hope will inspire other merchants on the island.”  

Green Key Certification handed over to Lagoonies owner Olivia Roudon by Minister of VROMI Patrice Gumbs. Credits: Fiel Efenio

"The Ministry of VROMI is proud to support EPIC in their role as the National Operator for the Green Key and Blue Flag programmes. Lagoonies’ achievement proves that local businesses can lead the way. We congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to many more establishments following their example." Said Mr. Patrice Gumbs, Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure. 

This milestone follows a rigorous certification process during which Lagoonies implemented a range of new initiatives, including reducing waste, using more sustainable cleaning products, engaging their broader network in more sustainable practices, and developing new internal policies to improve their environmental footprint. 

“To be able to award the first Green Key certificate to Lagoonies after reinstating the program just last year is truly incredible”, said Mr. de Lain. “Sustainability has been a clear priority for Lagoonies for years, and this global recognition feels both well-deserved and entirely fitting.” 

Fleur Hermanides, President of the Board, commented, “It is with great pride to see Green Key relaunched after many years of inactivity, as Sint Maarten was busy rebuilding post-hurricane Irma, whose effects were exacerbated by the onslaught of the pandemic. To relaunch with a totally new site, in a new sector, makes it all the more exciting, and we look forward to many more sites following suit. A huge applause goes out to Lagoonies, Mrs. Roudon, and their amazing team, who have been a true pioneer in the sustainable restaurant business, being a great example on how a local restaurant can lower their environmental footprint and impact.” 

Sustainable business practices are increasingly important not only for environmental protection but also for the long-term viability of tourism, the health of local ecosystems, and the well-being of the island’s residents. These practices also can reduce operational costs, such as water and energy bills. As Sint Maarten faces the realities of climate vulnerability, initiatives like Green Key offer a practical path forward for hotels, restaurants, and other tourism establishments. 

About EPIC 

Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) Sint Maarten is an independent non-profit foundation founded in 2007, active since 2001, with the mission of protecting the environment through research, restoration, education and advocacy. EPIC is a results-driven organization that works on challenging, under-addressed issues through holistic programs resulting in strategic community-based actions. By recognizing the connections between ecological health, economic vitality, and quality of life, EPIC’s work supports the vision of communities leading the way towards a more resilient and sustainable future for everyone. To learn more about EPIC and its initiatives visit our website at epicislands.org or find EPIC islands on social media. 

Green Key is happy to introduce you to Replacer!

We’re pleased to announce that Replacer is now available directly through the Green Key Toolbox, offering all Green Key certified sites a practical, free-to-use tool to help reduce single-use and disposable waste. 

Replacer is a platform designed in London by Ed Perryman, Achille Leduc, and Dominik Reed to support the hospitality sector in shifting away from disposables and towards a circular economy model. What can Replacer do for your establishment?

By accessing Replacer via the Green Key Toolbox, your site can: 

• Identify and prioritise impactful changes to reduce single-use items across operations, from guest rooms to food service 

• Explore sustainable alternatives for common disposable products, with options suited to different budgets and operational needs 

• Project environmental and financial benefits using a built-in ROI calculator - helping you understand the value of every change 

• Connect with trusted suppliers offering innovative, sustainable products to support implementation 

Whether you’re just starting your sustainability journey or working to deepen your impact, Replacer makes it easier to take action.  

You’ll find Replacer listed in the Green Key Toolbox under the section on waste and resource management. From there, you can access the full Replacer platform free of charge and begin exploring opportunities specific to your business type and goals. 

So how does Replacer work? 

1. Browse a comprehensive list of replaceable items and choose which items you want to tackle first. 

1. For each item, discover the solutions that other organisations have already implemented. 

1. Explore the financial viability and impact of any solution, with an ROI calculator. It helps you to model different scenarios 

1. Connect with the best suppliers to get quotes and answers to your specific needs. 

1. Build a case to convince your organisation. Replacer gives you the arguments you need to make your case. 

We encourage all Green Key sites to explore Replacer and make use of this new resource.  

Green Key and Green Care Professional empower businesses to measure and certify their environmental impact

At Green Key, we know that every step toward sustainability matters - and we’re proud to work alongside partners who turn commitment into measurable action. That’s why we’re highlighting the Green Care Performance Calculator from Werner & Mertz Professional, a trusted Green Key partner. 

With the Green Care Performance Calculator, businesses can quantify their resource savings - specifically CO₂ emissions, crude oil, and plastic - achieved by switching to Green Care Professional products. The tool offers more than just numbers: it provides a certified, transparent foundation for sustainability claims, helping Green Key-certified establishments clearly demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility. 

The tool produces a personalised certificate, complete with the user’s company logo, showcasing the verified environmental savings. This document is not only ideal for internal sustainability reporting but also enhances external communication - for example, in public tenders or green procurement processes that prioritise verified sustainable practices. 

The latest version of the calculator includes two new indicators: the recyclate content of the container and the recyclate content of the entire packaging (including caps). These additions reflect a deeper commitment to the circular economy, aligning with Green Key’s own sustainability criteria. 

“Our goal is to best prepare companies for the transition to a genuine circular economy,” says Thomas Ulbricht, Head of Werner & Mertz Professional. “With the Green Care Performance Calculator, we’re turning our sustainable product design into a competitive advantage - especially in the face of evolving regulatory landscapes.” 

This shared vision aligns perfectly with Green Key’s mission to support accommodations and businesses that want to make credible, responsible choices for people and planet. The calculator’s methodology has been independently validated by INTECHNICA GmbH, ensuring a robust and reliable foundation for its results. 

We encourage all Green Key-certified businesses - and those aspiring to certification - to explore the benefits of this tool. Use it to make your sustainability journey visible, back your actions with certified data, and strengthen your environmental credentials. 

Learn more and start calculating your impact at: 
www.green-care-professional.com/calculate-now 

Hong Kong's Lanson Place Causeway Bay and sustainable urban hospitality

Lanson Place Causeway Bay and sustainable urban hospitality 

Following an extensive renovation and a strong relaunch in March 2024, Lanson Place Causeway Bay in Hong Kong has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to green practices, now officially recognised with a Green Key certification. 

The hotel’s dedicated Green Committee plays a central role in driving progress, identifying environmental risks and setting clear, actionable goals across departments. Since reopening, the hotel has implemented 16 departmental goals focused on reducing energy, water use, and carbon emissions, while enhancing recycling and waste management systems. Team members also undergo regular training to foster a shared culture of environmental awareness. 

Sustainability touches every part of the guest experience at Lanson Place: 

• Paperless operations: From e-registration and digital invoices to in-room dining menus displayed on TV and digital press libraries, the hotel has dramatically cut paper consumption. 

• Water-saving technologies: Dual-flush toilets and low-flow showerheads ensure efficiency without compromising comfort. 

• Smart climate control: Rooms automatically adjust to an energy-efficient 23°C when unoccupied thanks to an intelligent Room Control Unit (RCU). 

• Plastic-free hydration: The NORDAQ water filtration and bottling system eliminates single-use plastic bottles from the hotel entirely. 

Sustainability continues at the table with a thoughtfully curated menu featuring: 

• Organic, locally and responsibly sourced ingredients. 

• A wine and beverage list that champions organic, biodynamic, and sustainable options. 

• Partnership with ecoSPIRITS, a zero-waste distribution platform that removes single-use packaging from the spirits supply chain. 

Behind the scenes, Lanson Place is equally committed: 

• Recycling of glass, aluminium, coffee capsules, and lightly used soap. 

• Used cooking oil is repurposed into biodiesel. 

• Food waste is processed by an Environmental Protection Department-certified partner, with 5,132 kg recycled between March and December 2024 alone. 

“As we celebrate this Green Key certification, we look forward to building on our success and striving for even greater accomplishments in the future,” - Danny Tse, Area General Manager.  

About Lanson Place Causeway Bay, Hong Kong 

Following a major transformation and enhancement, the hotel reopened in March 2024 to offer a sanctuary of warmth, attentiveness and style nestled in the heart of Hong Kong. Reimagined by award-winning French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, the luxury hotel features 188 rooms, suites and penthouse residences as well as Salon Lanson, an exclusive dining destination with a private setting. Perfect for business and leisure travellers, whether for short or extended stays, the hotel boasts sophisticated meeting and event spaces, a 24-hour Fitness Centre, and a Laundry Room. Conveniently located, it offers easy access to the Central and Admiralty business hubs, all reachable within 15 minutes via public transportation. 

 For more details, visit lansonplace.com/causewaybay.  

Le Manoir de la Goëletterie, a Green Key holiday center

Le Manoir de la Goëletterieetterie, located in Saint-Malo, is proud to announce that it has been awarded Green Key certification for the first time for the year 2025. 

Le Manoir de la Goëletterie, an 18th-century Breton manor, welcomes school groups, group stays, as well as private and professional events in a unique and preserved setting. Nestled in the heart of a 2.5-hectare park, the Manor offers 120 beds spread across 33 rooms, high-quality dining, and fully equipped, flexible event spaces. 

Since 1985, their mission has been to create a unique experience based on the art of hospitality, providing warm, attentive, and thoughtful service. Now more than ever their focus is towards sustainable hospitality, so we’re happy to welcome them to the Green Key community as they receive our certification for year 2025.  

Situated in a well-preserved natural environment, Le Manoir de la Goëletterie has implemented several Good Practices to minimise its environmental impact. These include responsible waste management, the use of sustainable products and educational programmes that raise awareness among young people about environmental issues and food waste. 

 “This certification reflects our commitment to educating all generations on the importance of protecting our planet while providing them with unforgettable stays.” says Myriam Durand, Director. 

Le Manoir de la Goëletterie is dedicated to continuing the development of sustainable practices and inspiring its visitors to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. 

“We firmly believe that every small action counts and that, together, we can make a difference.” 

Want to know more about Le Manoir de la Goëletterie? Visit their website here.  

Are you curious about other Green Key Good Practices? Find more here.  

Hamilton Princess & Beach Club: the First Green Key Site In Bermuda

The Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, a 380-room luxury resort nestled in Bermuda, has made history as the island’s first Green Key-certified property. This prestigious certification, awarded by Green Key International, recognizes the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and its strides in reducing environmental impact through innovative practices.   

National Bee Day - Maynette Honey Sweets

Tim Morrison, General Manager, Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, said:  

“We are pleased to be recognized by Green Key International as the first in Bermuda. The hotel team have worked hard on this initiative, and the hotel’s Sustainability team, lead by our Champion & Assistant Director of Engineering D’Esta Ascento, were major players in the accomplishment of our goals.” 

The resort began its journey toward a more sustainable tourism back in 2016. Tasks began with no single-use plastic in any of the ‘front of house’ areas such as the hotel restaurants and bars. Plastic water bottles were replaced by paper bottles and aluminium reusable water bottles.  Hot and cold drink tumblers were also sold to encourage refilling, and last summer refillable water stations were installed throughout the hotel and Beach Club. 

Water bottle refill challenge

Take-out coffee cups were replaced with a double-insulated version to eliminate the wasteful coffee cup sleeve and the plastic lids were replaced with those made out of composed paper. The stirrers and straws are made from bamboo or hay. Where drinking cups, utensils or containers were needed, the hotel uses products supplied by the Sustainable Agave Company, which have been upcycled and are compostable.  

The hotel also collaborated with ecoSPIRITS, a company which has developed the world’s first low carbon, low waste packaging technology for premium spirits and wine. This international company provides a spirits and wine distribution service, which aims to end the use of single-use glass bottles. Furthermore, for every ecoTOTE container they sell, 1kg of ocean waste is collected and to date our efforts have contributed to 748 kg’s collected and 3,114 single-use glass bottled avoided. 

In guest rooms, single-use 90ml shampoo, conditioner and hand lotion amenities were replaced with larger  480 ml multiple use bottles and all single use plastics were removed from the rooms.  In room coffee stations include paper cups, paper lids, bamboo stirrers and the espresso machines use recyclable aluminium pods.  

Hotel Sustainability Champion & Assistant Director of Engineering D’Esta Ascento and her team were very focused on energy efficiency and waste management reduction. LED lighting, heat recovery systems, energy management systems, promoting recycling, an in-house reverse osmosis machine, and the ORBISK food waste management systems all came online in 2024. 

Last fall, Hamilton Princess partnered with BE Solar, a Bermudian solar company, to implement a partial solar energy system to offset a portion of the hotel’s energy consumption. At present, the hotel has stopped the use of more than 6,000 barrels of oil from being consumed and prevented over 3,100 metric tonnes of carbon emissions from entering its atmosphere. Also, they are generating enough energy to power 30 guest rooms daily. A total of 245 solar panels were mounted in its first phase, providing clean, renewable energy for at least 30 years, and redefining what sustainable hospitality looks like. 

Tim Morrison and Cristina (staff) planting a tree

Ms. Ascento said, “General Manager Tim Morrison’s leadership has been a constant source of support, and Director of Operations Roydell Neverson has been key in driving our sustainability initiatives. Sustainability has truly become part of our culture, thanks to the collective effort of our Brand, Hotel ownership and all of the Operational Team. 

“Having this kind of support is essential because change can be challenging,” she continued. “We’re focused on shifting perspectives, creating a more sustainable mind-set for both our guests and our team. When sustainability becomes second nature, new initiatives are embraced with open arms.” 

The feedback to the hotel’s sustainability efforts has been overwhelmingly positive. “It means so much to the ongoing success of our hotel and in our care for our community,” Ms. Ascento reflected, noting the lasting impact of these initiatives.  

The hotel aims to reach net zero by 2050. 

Are you inspired by this wonderful initiatives? Check out more Good Practices here. 

Green Key intro sessions for interested establishments

Discover the Green Key advantage: Join our introductory online sessions on Wednesday 27 August

Are you a hospitality establishment looking to boost your sustainability credentials? Green Key International invites you to explore the benefits of certification through our upcoming Introduction to Green Key for interested establishments on Wednesday 27 August 2025. 

Two Sessions Available 

To accommodate different schedules, we’re offering two identical sessions: 

• Session A: Wednesday 27 August 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM (CEST). Register here 

• Session B: Wednesday 27 August 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM (CEST), Register here 

Whether you're a hotel, campsite, restaurant, or another establishment, this is your chance to learn more about our famous certification. 

Meet the Speaker 

The sessions will be hosted by Finn Bolding Thomsen, International Green Key Director, who will guide participants through the key elements of the programme and share insights from his extensive experience in sustainable tourism. 

 What to Expect 

Each one-hour session will include a concise yet comprehensive introduction to the Green Key programme. Topics will include: 

• Overview of Green Key criteria and certification process 

• Participation costs and available support tools 

• The benefits of joining the Green Key community 

• Guidance on how to get started 

• Key contact information for follow-up 

After the presentation, we’ll open the floor to a Q&A session, giving you the opportunity to ask specific questions and engage directly with Green Key International representatives. 

 Who Should Attend? 

These online sessions are ideal for interested establishments considering Green Key certification or simply wanting to learn more about sustainable operations in tourism and hospitality. 
Registration is free but required to receive the links.  

• Register for Session A 

• Register for Session B 

Join us on Wednesday 27 August and take the first step toward a more sustainable future for your business.