Green Key Slovenia Conference Highlights Sustainable Progress in Tourism

The fourth Green Key Slovenia Conference brought together a broad range of stakeholders in sustainable tourism at the Brdo Congress Centre. The event gathered representatives of certified Green Key establishments, experts in tourism and ESG reporting, specialists in sustainable management, public sector representatives, and partner organisations. Through shared experience and expertise, participants continued to co-create responsible tourism in Slovenia. 

The conference offered a diverse programme focused on practical approaches to sustainability within the tourism sector. Participants heard examples of Good Practices from Slovenian hotels, campsites, restaurants, and attractions where sustainable solutions have become part of daily operations. Topics included the efficient use of energy and water, the use of materials with a lower environmental impact, and transparent ESG reporting. 

Want to read more about Good Practices from all around the globe or submit your own one? Follow this link.  

Speakers also highlighted the importance of collaboration with local suppliers and the wider community. Such cooperation strengthens local economies, supports the preservation of cultural and natural heritage, and enhances the authenticity of the visitor experience. The examples presented demonstrated that sustainability adds value by increasing competitiveness, trust, and recognition, while connecting all stakeholders who contribute to the future of Slovenian tourism. 

A notable moment of the event was a lecture by Dr Sanela Peresciutti, who reminded attendees that sustainability is not only about caring for the environment, but also about caring for people. She underlined the role of emotional maturity, empathy, and self-awareness in building communities that can sustain both human and environmental wellbeing. 

Beyond the exchange of knowledge and best practice, the conference served as an important platform for dialogue, networking, and mutual support. Participants were thrilled; they reaffirmed that open cooperation and the exchange of ideas are essential for achieving meaningful and lasting change. 

The event once again emphasised that Green Key represents more than a certificate. It is a shared commitment to responsible practice and collective responsibility within the tourism sector. Through the efforts of Green Key establishments, Slovenia continues to strengthen its reputation as a destination that values sustainability and accountability in tourism development. 

Hospitality with purpose in the Philippines: the story of Novotel & Ibis Manila Anareta City

A celebrated long-term commitment 

Novotel Manila Araneta City and Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City have been recently awarded the Green Key certification, recognising their commitment to responsible hospitality. 

“At Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, our Green Key certification reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting the planet while delivering exceptional guest experiences” said Maria Manlulu-Garcia, Area General Manager. “This achievement demonstrates that sustainability and comfort can go hand in hand.” 

Novotel Manila’s sustainability journey began a decade ago, with environmental initiatives becoming part of its daily operations. Ibis Styles Manila has also placed emphasis on reducing environmental impact through its amenities and facilities. Together, the two hotels put sustainability at the heart of their service, a commitment now recognised with the Green Key certificate. 

Concrete sustainable actions  

 Across both establishments, guest rooms have been designed to avoid single-use plastics. Refillable water containers, pump dispensers for toiletries, eco-certified paper products and biodegradable waste liners are now standard. Energy-saving measures include preset air-conditioning, LED lighting, and towel and linen reuse programmes. 

The hotels are very involved in reducing food waste and offering plastic-free dining. Vegetarian options are available, and Novotel donates untouched breakfast food to the Philippine Red Cross. Meetings and events are organised with sustainability in mind, using QR code menus, LED signage, reusable flip charts, and reduced paper use. 

Behind the scenes, the hotels prioritise suppliers with recognised sustainability practices, separate waste effectively, use in-house water refilling stations, and adopt energy-efficient lighting and cleaning products. Both guests and employees are encouraged to take part in activities such as Earth Hour, clean-up drives, and energy-saving initiatives including reduced car idling.    

Both Novotel and Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City want to continue to strengthen their environmental initiatives in the years to come. Thank you and congratulations for Araneta Hotels Inc.’s ongoing commitment.  

Inspired by Novotel and Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City’s journey toward more sustainability? Read other empowering news of Green Key’s network here. 

World Tourism Day 2025: Tourism and Sustainable Transformation

On 27 September 2025, the global tourism community celebrates World Tourism Day and the theme is “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” 

This year’s focus reminds us the role of tourism as a driver of sustainable and resilient change. Tourism connects people and places, strengthens local economies, and protects cultural and natural heritage. At the same time, it must address challenges related to global warming, inequality, and overuse of resources to ensure a positive long-term impact. Tourism is an essential pillar of the  2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and it can help achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (especially goals 8, 12 & 14). On earth, one person out of ten is employed by the tourism sector which provides livelihoods to hundreds of millions of people. 

“Tourism is a powerful engine of opportunity. It creates jobs and strengthens bonds between people and places, reminding us of our shared humanity. Yet, it can also damage the very places and communities it celebrates. As the world faces climate breakdown and rising inequality, we need bold, urgent, and sustainable transformation that puts people and planet first.” 

- United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres 

Green Key’s contribution 

With more than 8,000 certified establishments in over 90 countries, Green Key is proud to be part of this global movement towards sustainable tourism. The programme continues to grow steadily and Good Practices flourish across the different sites.  

The people working in tourism are behind this progress, as well as the commitment of certified sites, and the choices made by travelers. Everyday, efforts pay off and practices evolve, sustainable tourism is possible and powerful!  

Help shape the future of sustainable tourism 

Green Key is currently revising its criteria, and we want your voice in the process. From 10 October to 10 November 2025, an external hearing will be open through an online survey. Partners and stakeholders are warmly invited to share feedback to ensure the criteria remain ambitious, practical, and impactful for tourism’s sustainable transformation. 

Get ready to share your feedback, the survey goes live on Friday 10 October! 

Green Key wants to celebrate and thank all the certified establishments from the network for developing inspiring new projects over the years.  

Thank you also to Green Key’s valuable partners and stakeholders, whose ongoing support, collaboration, and commitment play a crucial role in driving our shared mission forward and ensuring the continued success of the programme. 

Our last thanks go to the travelers: thank you for exploring the world and be part of the change.  

What is World Tourism Day ? 

The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) , Institutional Partner of Green Key, instituted World Tourism Day in 1980. This date was chosen to coincide with the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the UNWTO Statutes in 1970. World Tourism Day aim to draw attention on the role of tourism globally. Another goal is to shine a light on the social, cultural, political and economic aspects tourism affects.  

By celebrating World Tourism Day, the United Nations wish to spread international awareness but also to encourage people to take action on these issues.  

To find out more about Green Key’s institutional partners, follow this link.  

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.