Behind the scenes of the Green Key certification: Q&A with Terme Catez Hotel in Slovenia

Have you ever wondered what it is like to be a Green Key certified hotel?  

Green Key International has interviewed Alenka Mokrovič Pogačar, the Sales and Marketing Director at Terme Čatež Hotel, in Slovenia. Known for its summer and winter thermal facilities, the resort has long been engaged in environmental initiatives and resource management, from geothermal energy use to guest awareness programs. Through this interview, Alenka addresses topics like the motivations, challenges, and concrete actions behind the Green Key certification, both during the certification process and its results with guests. 

Why did you apply for the Green Key certification? 

At Terme Čatež, we have been implementing various environmental and sustainability measures for many years. Our main motivation was to further strengthen our commitment to sustainable development and responsible management of natural resources. The Green Key certification also represents international recognition of our efforts and sends an important message to our guests that we actively care for the environment.  

How did the Green Key certification process go in your experience? 

The certification process was well structured and transparent. It included a review of our existing practices, preparation of documentation, and verification that all required criteria were met. The process also helped us systematically review our environmental activities and identify new opportunities for improvement. 

What is one good practice that you implemented and that you are proud of?  

A significant part of our energy is obtained from a geothermal source, which represents a renewable and environmentally friendly energy source. This significantly reduces emissions and environmental impact while supporting the principles of sustainable development. For many years, we have used the energy from thermal water springs to heat part of our accommodation infrastructure as well as sports facilities. 

How do the clients react to the certification?  

Guests often notice the certificate, as information about its implementation is visible in all facilities and accommodation units. They perceive it as a sign of quality and a responsible attitude toward the environment. We believe this provides an additional level of trust in our hotel. Occasionally, guests ask additional questions about our sustainability practices, and many express support for such initiatives, often through small everyday actions such as reusing towels. 

Why did you choose Green Key Certification among the ecological tourism certifications? 

Green Key is one of the leading international environmental certificates for tourism facilities and is recognized in many countries. Its criteria are clearly defined, professionally designed, and focused on continuous improvement of environmental practices. Because of its international recognition and credibility, we assessed that Green Key is a suitable certification for our company. 

What would you say to hotels which want to apply for the Green Key certification? 

To those who are still considering whether to apply, we would like to emphasize that the Green Key certificate is an excellent opportunity to improve sustainable management and strengthen guests’ trust. 

The process encourages organizations to systematically introduce environmental measures and brings long-term benefits both for the environment and for business operations. 

The Green Key certification also increases visibility on the international tourism market. Sustainability, green tourism, and environmental responsibility provide guests with additional confidence when choosing a destination. 

Sustainable Camping in Amsterdam: Good Practices from Camping Zeeburg

At Camping Zeeburg, sustainability is not presented as a strict rule. Instead, it is a shared effort between staff, guests, and the local community. Located in Amsterdam, the eco-friendly campsite has gradually introduced practical initiatives that make sustainable camping accessible to everyone. 

From educational information boards to reused building materials and a vegetarian café, Camping Zeeburg shows how small actions can create a more responsible camping experience in the city. 

Encouraging Sustainable Camping Habits 

Throughout the campsite, information boards provide guests with simple tips for sustainable camping. The signs explain everyday actions such as saving water, separating waste, and respecting the natural environment of the island. 

These clear and practical messages help visitors understand how they can reduce their environmental impact during their stay. The campsite team also supports guests with advice when needed, making sustainable choices easy and accessible. 

By combining clear communication with friendly guidance, Camping Zeeburg promotes environmental awareness while encouraging visitors to take part in responsible travel. 

A Vegetarian Café Supporting Local and Sustainable Food 

Food also plays an important role in the campsite’s sustainability strategy. The café at Camping Zeeburg offers a menu that is mainly vegetarian or plant-based, with ingredients sourced locally and organically whenever possible. 

Food production has a major impact on the environment, so choosing plant-based dishes can significantly reduce carbon emissions during a holiday. By promoting vegetarian meals, the campsite provides guests with a simple way to enjoy more sustainable travel. 

Local products are prioritised whenever possible. This approach supports nearby producers and connects visitors with the local culture of Amsterdam, creating a more authentic travel experience. 

Reusing Urban Materials to Reduce Waste 

Camping Zeeburg also focuses on creative reuse of materials. Several trees that had been removed in the city of Amsterdam were repurposed instead of being discarded. 

With the help of a local artist, the wood was transformed into outdoor furniture, terraces, and small structures that can now be found across the campsite. This initiative reduces waste while adding character to the space and demonstrating practical circular design. 

Green Key Certification and Continuous Improvement 

The campsite’s sustainability efforts have been recognised through the Green Key International certification, one of the leading environmental certification for tourism businesses. 

According to Lobke Huibregtse from Camping Zeeburg, this certification encourages the team to continue improving their environmental practices and to share sustainable camping ideas with visitors from around the world. 

By combining community engagement, local partnerships, and practical environmental actions, Camping Zeeburg offers a strong example of how modern campsites can move toward more sustainable tourism. 

Green Key in Fiji: Announcement of first establishments in the South Pacific archipelago

Green Key is pleased to announce that OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort and Castaway Island, Fiji have become the first establishments in Fiji to achieve Green Key certification. The certification was awarded following a comprehensive auditing and documentation process, confirming the resorts’ compliance with Green Key’s rigorous environmental and social responsibility criteria. 

Both properties demonstrate strong environmental management systems and a long-term commitment to sustainability. They implement measures to reduce energy and water consumption, manage waste responsibly, and prioritise sustainable purchasing. At OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort, a dedicated environmental officer oversees legislative compliance and supports continuous improvement across all operational areas. 

The resorts place a strong emphasis on community engagement and local economic support through local employment and sourcing practices. Environmental education is integrated into the guest experience, encouraging awareness of sustainability and conservation issues. 

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Marine conservation is a key focus at Castaway Island, Fiji, where the recently launched Sculptural Coral Gene Bank supports coral regeneration while providing an educational platform for guests to learn about reef protection and biodiversity. 

As the first Green Key certified establishments in Fiji, OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort and Castaway Island, Fiji set an important benchmark for sustainable tourism in the destination and demonstrate how high-quality hospitality can align with strong environmental and social practices. 

ABOUT OUTRIGGER RESORTS & HOTELS 

For more than 75 years, OUTRIGGER has charted a journey of discovery – expanding from Hawaii to premier resort destinations including Fiji, Mauritius, Thailand and the Maldives. The privately held hospitality company invites guests to ‘Come Be Here’ with authentic Signature Experiences and the  OUTRIGGER DISCOVERY loyalty program – a member of the award-winning Global Hotel Alliance (GHA). OUTRIGGER’s multi-branded portfolio includes OUTRIGGER Resorts, Hawaii Vacation Condos by OUTRIGGER®, The Kapalua Villas Maui and OUTRIGGER Honua Kai Resort & Spa while also managing select properties from top international hotel brands including Embassy Suites by Hilton®. Find out more at  OUTRIGGER.com  or visit @OUTRIGGERResorts on Facebook, Instagram and  X. 

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About Green Key 

Green Key is a leading international environmental certification programme for tourism and hospitality businesses, operated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The certification is awarded to establishments that meet strict environmental standards across areas such as energy and water conservation, waste management, sustainable sourcing, environmental education, and corporate social responsibility. Recognised worldwide, Green Key provides travelers with trusted assurance that certified hotels and resorts are actively reducing their environmental impact while contributing positively to the destinations in which they operate.  

Dieci Boutique Restaurant: A Culinary Event and a Model of Sustainability

Dynamic duo Chef Gianfranco Chiarini and Restaurant Director/Sommelier Anna Chiarini

Nestled in the Bulgarian countryside, Dieci Boutique Restaurant offers more than fine dining, it’s a celebration of culinary artistry, local flavours, and sustainable practices. Recognised as the only Michelin-star restaurant experience in Bulgaria, Dieci is led by the dynamic duo Chef Gianfranco Chiarini and Restaurant Director/Sommelier Anna Chiarini, who together create an unforgettable experience for the ten exclusive guests served each evening. 

Certified under the Green Key Programme, Dieci demonstrates that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. The Green Key programme recognises establishments worldwide that meet rigorous environmental and ethical standards. Following a thorough on-site audit, Dieci has implemented a series of innovative measures that set a benchmark for the hospitality industry. 

Innovative Sustainable Practices at Dieci 

Plastic Reuse

Following Green Key certification, the team at Dieci decided to take a more in-depth approach to plastic reduction and recycling. All food-grade plastics are melted and formed into bricks, which are planned to construct a new recycling facility. Going further, they have transformed the plastic into 1.7 mm 3D printer filaments, which are then used to create uniquely designed plates for serving small bites. This approach not only reduces waste but also encourages meaningful conversations with guests about reducing, reusing, and recycling plastics. 

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Wood Renewal and Reuse

Dieci has renovated its tables using naturally fallen cherry trees, regenerating the wood for sustainable use. Metal “bow ties,” made from recycled metal melted on-site, prevent further cracking while demonstrating innovative reuse of materials. The leftover wood is repurposed into small serving structures, and by 2026, the restaurant plans to produce its own pellets for heating using reclaimed wood from fallen branches and trees. This initiative clears hazardous forest waste while providing an ethical and environmentally sound heating solution. 

Flooring and Decor

Sustainability extends to the restaurant’s interior, where custom-made hemp carpets replace traditional flooring, and hemp insulation is used throughout the new Food Lab. These choices reflect a holistic approach to eco-friendly materials in every aspect of the restaurant. 

 Why These Practices Matter 

The sustainable measures at Dieci are not only environmentally responsible, they are also an integral part of the guest experience. Reviews frequently compare Dieci to renowned Michelin-starred restaurants worldwide, with some guests noting that their experience at Dieci surpasses even the most famous establishments. The restaurant’s seasonal tasting menu, based on the “From Farm to Table” philosophy, uses 98% local ingredients and integrates recycling of all food waste, highlighting a strong commitment to sustainability at every level. 

By combining exceptional cuisine, personalised service, and pioneering environmental practices, Dieci creates a dining experience that is both unforgettable and socially responsible. 

Remarkable Results

• Zero waste thrown or delivered 

• Guests actively engaged in discussions on sustainability 

• Recognition as the most sustainable restaurant in Bulgaria and Eastern Europe for 2025 by Green Key 

Dieci Boutique Restaurant is a prime example of how restaurants can harmonise gastronomy and environmental stewardship, inspiring both industry peers and guests alike. 

Bangladesh welcomes new National Operator as Green Key programme officially launches

Green Key International is pleased to welcome Bangladesh as the newest country to join the global Green Key network, following the official launch of the programme in Dhaka on 29 October 2025. The event also marked the appointment of Probha Aurora as the National Operator for Green Key Bangladesh, establishing a dedicated national framework for supporting and certifying tourism and hospitality establishments that are working to improve the environmental management of their operations. 

Hosted at the Dhaka Regency Hotel and Resort and organised by Probha Aurora in collaboration with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Bangladesh Chapter, the launch brought together leaders from government, academia and the tourism sector. Their shared focus was to advance internationally recognised sustainability standards across Bangladesh’s hotels, resorts and related businesses. 

Finn Bolding Thomsen, International Director of Green Key, attended virtually as Guest of Honour and welcomed Bangladesh to the growing global community. He highlighted the programme’s emphasis on documented compliance and independent verification. 
He noted that Green Key certification is based on strict environmental criteria that are assessed by external auditors and decision-making bodies. He added that he was pleased to see Bangladesh join the programme and that it was particularly encouraging that the Dhaka Regency Hotel is already progressing towards certification. 

Representatives from the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), the organisation that manages Green Key globally, also joined online. They highlighted the relevance of responsible tourism across South Asia and commended Bangladesh for aligning with established international standards. 

The launch ceremony was inaugurated by Emeritus Professor Dr M A Sattar Mandal, who emphasised that responsible tourism practice is essential to a competitive and resilient hospitality sector. He noted that sound environmental management can strengthen both business performance and visitor experience. 

PATA Bangladesh Chairman and Dhaka Regency Executive Director Shahid Hamid FIH chaired the session. He underscored the importance of adopting recognised sustainability certification programmes within the national tourism industry and acknowledged the collaborative effort that led to the introduction of Green Key in Bangladesh. 

Speakers throughout the event discussed the opportunities that Green Key certification presents for hotels and tourism establishments. These include improving operational efficiency, strengthening staff engagement and raising awareness among guests. Findings from a feasibility study presented by Mushfiqua Hasan Stuti showed strong readiness within the hospitality sector to adopt Green Key criteria and management practices. 

In his closing remarks, Bidhan Chandra Pal, Founder and Managing Director of Probha Aurora and the newly appointed National Operator, expressed his appreciation to national and international partners for their support. He noted that the launch represents the beginning of long-term development for Bangladesh’s tourism sector, providing establishments with clear guidance and independent verification as they work to improve their environmental performance. 

With the National Operator now formally established, Green Key Bangladesh is open for applications from hotels, resorts and other eligible establishments. Interested organisations can find further details and begin the process via the official website: https://greenkeybangladesh.org/  

Green Key International looks forward to close cooperation with Probha Aurora and all participating institutions as Bangladesh takes this important step in advancing responsible tourism practices nationwide. 

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