Green Key — stories & news

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Claudia Bogensperger

Castara Retreats and Hibiscus Heights join the list of certified Green Key establishments in Tobago

Castara Retreats and Hibiscus Heights have recently been added to the list of internationally certified Green Key hotels in Tobago, bringing the total number of certified properties on the island to seven. In addition, Native Abode has achieved its second certification, a remarkable accomplishment. The Green Key programme, implemented by National Operator Green T&T in partnership with the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL), has been instrumental in promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism and hospitality industry.

©Tobago Tourism Agency Limited 

 Coordinated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Green Key is a global voluntary eco-certification programme. The certification process evaluates various aspects of an establishment's operations, including environmental management, energy conservation, waste management, water conservation, and other sustainable practices. With over 4,400 certified hotels and establishments across more than 60 countries worldwide, Green Key is recognised as the leading standard for excellence in this field.

The recent certification ceremony took place on November 21st and 22nd, where Castara Retreats, Hibiscus Heights, and Native Abode received their well-deserved Green Key certificates along with plaques and flags that proudly display their commitment to sustainable practices. This celebration marks a significant milestone for Tobago tourism as it prioritises eco-friendly initiatives that benefit visitors and the local environment.

Since 2018, TTAL has invited all tourist sites, accommodations, attractions, and restaurants in Tobago to participate in the programme. Participating sites can receive a comprehensive assessment from Green T&T and work towards meeting the esteemed Green Key standards. The sites are audited, and the Green Key National Jury reviews their applications. Upon achieving full compliance, these sites are awarded Green Key certification for one year. This rigorous process has established Green Key as one of the most reputable eco-labels worldwide, trusted by prominent chains such as Radisson, Marriott, Accor, and Hyatt.

©Tobago Tourism Agency Limited 

The Tobago Tourism Development Limited (TTAL) has issued this statement:

With seven (7) Green Key-certified properties, there are now more accommodation options for the eco-conscious visitor to Tobago. This sets Tobago apart from other countries in the English-speaking Caribbean. The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited is committed to promoting the Green Key programme to increase the awareness and adoption of the sustainable practices inherent in the certification.

Together with programs such as the Tobago Recycling Resource Initiative and legislation such as the Waste Management Rules, 2021 and the Wate Management Regulations, 2021, which lay out guidelines for reducing waste generation and exercising environmentally sound management of waste, Tobago is on the way to being more widely known as a destination where sustainable environmental measures are commonplace.

 

For Castara Retreats, the journey to certification was most impactful, with their sustainable approach supported by staff members and the community. The owner of Castara Retreats, Steve Felgate, cited

Green Key is an excellent validation of priorities that we have been long-term committed to at Castara Retreats. We plan to continue setting and achieving targets year after year and for our passion to protect and enhance the environment to be shared by guests, staff and all our local and international partners. We are super excited to share this journey with others. Our strategy for sustainability, to be published in early 2024, is now our top business priority.

 

Hibiscus Heights is a small but ambitious accommodation provider that has surpassed many criteria and eagerly anticipates reaping the rewards of its efforts. Owner and Manager of Hibiscus Heights, Mike Walmsley, said,

Technology can offer excellent advantages and help reduce our carbon footprint; as an example, we installed wifi controlled remotes for all our air-conditioning units; this enables us to turn off the units when guests forget and leave on leaving for the day, without having to go into the apartments. We can also reset the temperature any time from an app on the phone, even if we are not on the premises.
The savings are a win, win.

©Tobago Tourism Agency Limited 

Native Abode is well-acquainted with the process and remains enthusiastic about the program. Here's what they had to say:

We have always strived to use our comparative advantage to make current and future gains in our business. This includes producing fruits and vegetables in an organic way, practising energy and water conservation, pre-ordering breakfast to reduce wastage, and using appropriate technology to eliminate printing. Green Key has provided formal recognition of how we do business. So, being Green Key certified means how we do business protects the environment and promotes sustainable prosperity, which resonates well with the growing climate conscious market.

 

Adventure Eco Villas, Bananaquit Vacations, House of Grace, Tropical Apartments, and Shepherds Inn in Tobago have received Green Key certification. As the National Operator for this programme in Trinidad and Tobago, Green T&T continues to collaborate with hospitality and tourism establishments across both islands to recognise and commemorate their existing sustainable initiatives through participation in the esteemed Green Key programme.

For more information on Green T&T, please visit www.green-tt.org or email greenkey@green-tt.org Telephone contact: 1-868-358-1708.

Marriott Hotels Reach Milestone in United Kingdom

Throughout the summer of 2023, Marriott International in the United Kingdom achieved a significant milestone as every hotel within the group's managed portfolio obtained Green Key certification.

Hotel Courtyard Exeter Sandy Park

Marriott’s hotels embarked on their Green Key journey several years ago, initiating their commitment to environmentally-conscious properties in the South of England, over time involving those in the midlands and northern England, Wales, Scotland, and the provinces. Now, all 58 properties have gone through the rigorous application and audit process, meeting the standards set by the  Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

Joanna Chugh, Area Vice President for UK, Ireland and the Nordics, explains;          

I am so proud of all our hotels’ green champions and their commitment to driving sustainability, which has made this achievement possible.

This achievement establishes Marriott as a leader in sustainable hospitality within the UK. It proudly holds the distinction of being the first global brand to attain this milestone, with all of its managed hotels meeting independently set sustainability criteria.

The portfolio of managed Marriott hotels across the UK varies greatly, from the historic Delta Hotels by Marriott Breadsall Priory Country Club set in 300 acres of private parkland, to the upmarket city centre Glasgow Marriott Hotel and 5-star luxury at JW Marriott Grosvenor House London. All Green Key certified establishments can be found on the Green Key interactive sites map.

Emma Whitlock, Green Key National Operator in England, says:

This is a fantastic achievement and demonstrates Marriott's commitment to sustainable operations and environmental education, and also the huge effort from hotel teams to successfully go through the rigorous application and audit process. Congratulations to everyone involved!

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Mercure Bali Legian Achieves Milestone as Indonesia's First Green Key Hotel

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Through the adoption of sustainability-focused strategies aligned with established criteria and skillful management of diverse challenges, Mercure Bali Legian proudly stands as the first Green Key certified hotel in Indonesia.

Strategically positioned along Legian's main street and within a short stroll of the famous Kuta and Legian beaches, vibrant nightlife, a plethora of restaurants, and Seminyak's renowned shopping district, Mercure Bali Legian hotel has embraced an environmentally conscious ethos. This is largely due to the exceptional dedication of its staff, who are committed to making a meaningful contribution and revitalising best practices for sustainability.

The Mercure Bal Legian particularly focuses on environmental preservation and is committed to managing the environment sustainably with a holistic system, following programs from the Accor Group and the Green Key criteria. The property engages in a range of initiatives to enhance its environmental performance. These efforts encompass favoring the purchase of local and eco-friendly products, adopting measures to eliminate single-use plastics, incorporating local food and vegetarian options in the menu, waste sorting, collaborating with a foundation to donate surplus food to those in need, and partnering with Urban Compost, a company that ensure that all collected food waste turns into high quality compost through aerobic composting system.

The Mercure Bali Legian actively partners with local communities, authorities, and organisations to promote the development of a sustainable environment. Furthermore, the hotel maintains its dedication to advocating for guests and continuously enhancing eco-friendly practices.

Florent Michaud, the General Manager of Mercure Bali Legian, says:

We are thrilled to be a part of the Green Key Program, as it aligns perfectly with our mission to provide a comfortable experience for our guests while minimising our impact on the environment. Our team has worked diligently to implement sustainable practices throughout our operations, and this recognition serves as a testament to our dedication.

Green Key International Coordinator, Claudia Bogensperger adds:

We at Green Key International are absolutely thrilled that Mercure Bali Legian is our first certified hotel in Indonesia. This achievement is a significant leap forward not only for the hotel but for the entire tourism industry in the country and the broader Southeast Asian region. It showcases a commitment to sustainability that sets a shining example for others to follow.

To learn more about the Mercure Bali Legian, please click here.

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Ulster University’s Academy Restaurant becomes first in UK and Ireland to be certified with Green Key

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Ulster University’s Academy Restaurant becomes the UK and Ireland’s first to achieve the prestigious Green Key certificate, for its commitment to sustainability and protecting the environment.  

Left to Right: Professor Mark Durkin, Lisa Kennedy, Wendy McGuire and Professor Ioannis Pantelidis

Located at its Belfast campus, the Academy Restaurant boasts a state-of-the-art restaurant and kitchens. Academy also serves for culinary and beverage schools, hospitality and food innovation research as well as conference and meeting facilities. As part of the Department for Hospitality and Tourism management at Ulster University Business School its primary purpose is the provision of innovative and immersive education, that enhances students’ skills to prepare them for their future careers. As part of the strategy of educating future leaders of industry, the Academy’s menu showcases local, seasonal ingredients and its operations have a strong focus on sustainability.

To be certified with Green Key, the Academy has met the more than 60 imperative criteria stipulated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and operates to the high environmental standards expected by Green Key. 

Lisa Kennedy, Business Manager at Academy, states:

The team at the Academy are committed to Sustainable Development and aim to bring a balance between meeting the requirements of present day demands in hospitality, while not overlooking the needs of future generations. Obtaining the Green Key certification is a key indicator of our commitment to embedding sustainable practices and providing the future of hospitality with the knowledge to implement them.”  

Academy has implemented many sustainable practices and actions to reduce its environmental impact including: 

  • Working towards zero-waste by reducing disposable paper food waste during the meal production and consumption processes. The restaurant is also trialling paperless menus, electronic production of receipts and digitalisation of marketing materials. 

  • Sourcing food locally to reduce its carbon miles and informing about the carbon footprint / food miles of their meals. It also hosts low-carbon food themed events as well as vegan and vegetarian menus.  

  • Using technology that is energy-efficient and installing water-saving appliances.

  • Hosting training programmes for suppliers and other industry stakeholders as well as practical sustainability education in the Academy. 

  • Academy is committed to creating a sustainability literacy workshop programme and becoming an industry leader in this area. 

Claudia Bogensperger, International Green Key Coordinator at FEE, explains:

For us at Green Key International, it is a great pleasure to certify the Academy Restaurant at the Ulster University as our first Green Key restaurant in the UK and Ireland! The team of the Academy Restaurant has done an incredible job in implementing our sustainability standards in their establishment, and we are proud to welcome them to our network!”

If you would like to find out more about the Academy Restaurant’s commitment to sustainability, please visit the Academy Restaurant website. 

Media contact: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk    
Academy contact: Lisa Kennedy   
Email: l.kennedy@ulster.ac.uk  
Academic contact: Dr Susann Power  
Email: s.power@ulster.ac.uk 

 

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First Green Key certified hotels in the Seychelles

In a groundbreaking achievement for both, the hotels and the tourism industry of the Seychelles, the STORY Seychelles Resort and Fisherman’s Cove Resort are the first hotels on the island to receive the prestigious Green Key certification, marking a significant milestone in sustainable tourism.

Photo credit: Fisherman’s Cove Resort

The neighboring resorts on the well-known Beau Vallon Beach in Mahe, Seychelles, the Fisherman’s Cove Resort and STORY Seychelles Resort have achieved Green Key certification. The certificate marks the unwavering dedication to eco-conscious practices of the resorts and establishes them as trailblazers in advocating responsible tourism in the region.

Jelena Ognjenović, Cluster General Manager, explains:

We are thrilled and honored to be the first hotels in Seychelles to receive this remarkable certification. This milestone signifies our dedication to lead by example in sustainable tourism and preserve the pristine beauty of our island for generations to come.

Since 2021, the Fisherman’s Cove Resort, rooted in history since 1943, has transitioned into a sustainability beacon under the STORY Hospitality Group.

Len Jackson, Cluster PR & Marketing Manager states:

After the rebranding in 2021, we adopted a significant policy shift in how we manage the resort with a keystone indicator encompassing sustainability. Green Key has provided us with useful knowledge, insight and learning on best practices.

Photo credit: STORY Seychelles Resort

The STORY Seychelles and Fisherman’s Cove Resort have introduced a range of innovative eco-friendly initiatives, including energy-efficient lighting, water conservation programs, waste reduction strategies, and the support of local environmental projects. This achievement solidifies its position as a leader in combining luxury with sustainability.

Len Jackson, Cluster PR & Marketing Manager states;

Sustainability is not a once off fix or quick check list. It requires resources, commitment, passion, and dedication. STORY Seychelles chose to align with Green Key due to several factors that included a robust criterion reflecting current push factors; its auditing process and benchmarking; and the global trust in the brand.

The dual recognition underscores the resorts’ commitment to reducing their environmental footprint while providing guests with an exceptional, eco-friendly experience. Together, they contribute to Seychelles’ diverse hospitality landscape, embodying a harmonious blend of history and modern sustainability.

If you would like to read more about the two establishments, please click the links below.

Beach Resorts & Villas in Seychelles / Story Seychelles

Beach Resort & Villas in Seychelles / Fisherman’s Cove Resort

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Cultivating Sustainable Tourism in Cambodia through ESD

With education for sustainable development (ESD) at the heart of our work, we are excited to have reached a significant milestone this past July in our ongoing project with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) which seeks to promote sustainable tourism practices in Cambodia through environmental education.  

In 2022, the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and the Improved Competitiveness of National Enterprises (ICONE) programme of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) launched a new project to support sustainable tourism in Cambodia, with FEE’s Eco-Schools and Green Key programmes providing a framework for implementation.  

As part of this project, Green Key Coordinator and Project Manager, Claudia Bogensperger travelled to Cambodia last month to participate in a regional conference on sustainability in tourism organised by the ICONE programme and to deliver an introductory course on sustainable tourism to three hospitality schools in Cambodia. The conference kicked-off this joint project, with various stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality industry engaging in discussions and workshops about customers' perspective on sustainability, waste management, zero plastic approaches, and capacity building of the local industry. Green Key presented practical examples of sustainable tourism from the Green Key International network, and the role of certification programmes in furthering sustainability within the industry. The conference offered a platform for exchange, collaboration, and collective learning. 

Another key element of the project has been the development and delivery of the "Basics in Sustainability in Tourism & Hospitality" course. This was delivered by Ms. Bogensperger to  teachers of École d'Hôtellerie et de Tourisme Paul Dubrule (EHT), Pour un Sourire d'Enfant's (PSE) and SPOONS. The course addresses topics such sustainable purchasing, emission reduction, waste minimisation and management, and social sustainability.  The aim is to equip teachers with a basic understanding about sustainability in tourism and be able to pass along their knowledge to their students. To ensure a holistic approach to the course, teachers from various departments, such as Food & Beverage, Communications, Housekeeping, and Maintenance participated. 

Fundraising and Marketing Manager of SPOONS, Dym Chandy Loeung explains:

Participating in the three-day Sustainable Tourism Development course was an enlightening experience that deepened my understanding of core green tourism principles, and I'm now equipped with the knowledge and passion to promote responsible and sustainable travel, as well as the tips to make our NGO and social enterprise more eco-friendly.

The course will also function as important resource for those schools aiming to be certified with the Green Flag of the Eco-Schools programme, as the inclusion of environmental education in a variety of different curriculum areas is central to the Seven Steps methodology of the programme. This has also been pointed out by Project and Communications Manager of EHT Paul Dubrule, Enrique Blanco: 

Contributing to EHT Paul Dubrule's actions in becoming an NGO and TVET green school model, our teachers and team members were privileged to receive a comprehensive course in sustainability in tourism and hospitality. Delivered by Ms. Claudia Bogensperger from the Foundation of Environmental Education (FEE), this learning experience included core green principles and practical examples demonstrated through group activities to apply sustainable practices related to resource consumption, waste management, biodiversity awareness, and more! 

Green Key Coordinator and Project Manager, Claudia Bogensperger reflected on her experience in Cambodia, saying,  

It was an absolute pleasure to work together with various stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality sector in Cambodia and learn more about the inspiring work they are already doing in the realms of sustainable tourism. To create a truly sustainable industry, everyone needs to be involved in the process, and we need to work on different models of sustainability that are not only based on but support geographical and cultural differences. That is why at FEE, our approach is to stimulate capacity development through collaborations with local organizations. Recognising that sustainable practices are best tailored to fit the unique characteristics of each region, we believe that empowering local entities is central to achieving holistic and impactful outcomes. 

This project in Cambodia marks an important step in promoting sustainable tourism practices within the country. By mainstreaming sustainability into the local context and promoting inclusivity among all stakeholders, the seeds for a thriving and responsible tourism industry in the country have been planted. For the long-term success of the project, it is critical to cultivate sustainable tourism practices that not only benefit the environment, but also empower local communities. We look forward to continuing to do so in partnership with GIZ Cambodia and the ICONE programme. 

Copyright Pictures: Claudia Bogensperger

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Centre for Environment Education (CEE) launches the National Management of Green Key in India

The Foundation for Environmental Education’s (FEE) member organisation in India, the Centre for Environment Education (CEE), is launching the national management of Green Key in the country.

© YRE Student from India, 1st Place Winner, Litter Less Category in 2020, YRE International Competition

After the successful implementation of the FEE programme, the Blue Flag certificate for beaches, marinas and sustainable tourism boats, CEE is now launching the Green Key programme in the country. With this important step, CEE is supporting and recognising responsible hospitality practices and contributing to a more sustainable tourism industry in India.

India, known for its vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, has long been a sought-after destination for travelers from around the globe. As the tourism industry continues to grow, there is an increasing need to ensure that this growth is sustainable and environmentally responsible. The national implementation of Green Key in India holds several advantages for both the tourism establishments in the country but also the tourism sector in general.

Due to the increased proximity of the National Operator to the tourism establishments in India, Green Key can ensure to meet the specific needs and requirements of the market. CEE’s focus on raising awareness, and educating about the environment and sustainable development, paired with the understanding for the Indian culture and country-specific conditions is another benefit of the national implementation of the programme. Therefore, Green Key ensures that sustainability practices are not only effective but also culturally relevant.

With the growing awareness of environmental issues and a rising preference for sustainable travel experiences, tourists are seeking accommodation options that align with their values. The Green Key programme addresses this demand by providing a reliable and credible certification that assures tourists of a tourism establishment’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Kartikeya V. Sarabhai, Director of the Centre for Environment Education, emphasizes the deep-rooted Indian tradition of honoring guests by stating,

"'Atithi devo bhava' - the guest is highly honored in the Indian tradition. We hope to continue and enrich this tradition by supporting and recognizing responsible hospitality and a caring environment with the Green Key program."

Dr. Jagat Mangaraj, National Operator of Green Key India, explains

"Green Key will add an environmental value to hotels and hospitality services in India, keeping in mind the local context. With Green Key, hotel staff and tourists have the opportunity to make positive contributions to sustainability."

Finn Bolding Thomsen, Green Key International Director, adds:

“We are happy to have CEE as our new National Operator in India to develop our programme in the country, and we encourage any hotel or other tourism facilities eligible for Green Key in India to apply or contact our National Operator in Inda for more information about the programme.”

The launch of Green Key in India through the new National Operator marks an important milestone in promoting sustainable tourism practices within the country. As the Indian tourism sector continues to grow, the Green Key certification will play a vital role in contributing to India's commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage while embracing sustainable development.

 

About CEE

CEE is a national institution engaged in developing programmes and materials to increase awareness, action about the environment and sustainable development. CEE was established in 1984 as a centre of excellence in environment education, then supported by the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MOEF) in India.

Please contact our National Operator in India through this link.

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Rising popularity of sustainable accommodations highlighted in Booking.Com Report

Booking.com's Sustainable Travel Report 2023 includes insights into sustainable travel choices from more than 33,000 travelers across 35 countries and territories. Particularly interesting for Green Key, are their results on the growing popularity of sustainable accommodation providers.  

© Villa Resorts

Every year, the Booking.com report sheds light on the evolving landscape of sustainable travel and highlights the increasing demand for eco-friendly experiences among travelers worldwide. As sustainability continues to be a driving force in the tourism industry, the findings of the report provide valuable insights into the preferences and motivations of conscious travelers. Over the eight years that the international booking platform has conducted this research, sustainability continues to be at the forefront for travelers.  

For example, 74% of respondents believe that people need to act now and make more sustainable choices to save the planet for future generations. This marks a substantial increase compared to previous years (66% in 2022), indicating a continuous shift in consumer behavior towards more responsible and environmentally friendly travel options.  

Particularly interesting for Green Key seems to be the trends connected to sustainable and/or eco-certified accommodations. The report highlights the growing popularity of eco-accommodations among travelers, as 65% of respondents confirmed that they would feel better about staying in a particular accommodation if they knew it had a sustainable certification or label. In addition, 59% would like to filter their accommodation options for those with a sustainable certification next time they book. Furthermore, travelers are actively seeking accommodations that prioritise sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient infrastructure, recycling programs, and locally sourced amenities. 

As economic conditions have changed significantly over the past year, the report also highlights a dilemma where travelers feel forced to choose between cost savings and more sustainable travel choices. 49% believe sustainable travel options are too expensive, which represents an 11% increase from 2022 data. Travelling sustainably therefore becomes secondary when worrying about bills and the energy crisis. Despite these developments 43% of respondents also claimed that they would be willing to pay more for sustainable travel options. 

While the desire for sustainable travel is strong, it also becomes apparent from the report that the lack of knowledge about sustainable travel options is among the challenges preventing some travelers from engaging in more sustainable travel experiences. The news and social media continue to be the top two sources of learning about sustainability for 43% of respondents. Aligned with the results of the report, and Booking.com's mission to make sustainable travel choices easier for everyone, the company is increasingly displaying sustainable accommodations around the world. Already now, travelers can find Green Key certified accommodations and information about their sustainable actions on Booking.com.

In case you are a Green Key certified establishment that would like to claim your listing on Booking.com, please contact us via chiara@fee.global. 

To conclude, the Booking.com Sustainable Travel Report 2023 shows a significant global shift towards sustainable travel, with most travelers expressing a desire for more eco-friendly options. As conscious travel becomes the norm, both travelers and industry players have a shared responsibility to prioritise sustainable practices and create a positive impact on the environment, so that

“sustainable travel becomes the norm, and not the exception (Glenn Fogel, CEO of Booking.com).”  

To read the full Booking.com report click here. 

 
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Green Key establishment, Sani Resort, publishes their Environmental, Social and Governance Report

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The Sani Resort continuous its tireless work to minimise its environmental footprint, by dedicating their work to the protection of local biodiversity, supporting the local community, and setting a triple Zero Goal: net zero of carbon emissions by 2030 zero single-use plastic and produce zero waste by 2024. In 2020, it therefore became the first certified carbon neutral resort in Greece running in 100% renewable electricity

As part of the Sani/Ikos hotel group, the Sani Resort is encompassing five hotels spread across a 1,000-acre ecological reserve on the Kassandra Peninsula. It is surrounded by seven kilometres of Blue Flag beaches, 20km of forest trails and 270 acres of wetlands, encouraging guests to reconnect with nature within a sustainable mini self-contained world.

In 2020, Sani Resort became the first certified carbon neutral resort in Greece running in 100% renewable energy and was recently awarded as the World’s Leading Luxury Green Resort at the World Travel Awards for the second year in a row. From its commitment to the local community, to its dedication to biodiversity and its efforts to operate sustainably, Sani works tirelessly to minimise its environmental footprint. With sustainability at heart, in 2008, Sani Resort has launched “Sani Green”, a programme focusing on improving the sustainability performance of the resort, from energy efficiency and use of renewable energy sources to water conservation and sustainable procurement. Each Sani Green initiative is supported by well-defined policies and measurable targets, in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Therefore, the resort is powered by 100% renewable electricity, energy consumption has been reduced by 3% in 2019, water consumption per guest has been reduced by 48% since 2016, and 2,000,000kg of materials have been recycled in the last five years, with a recycling performance of 290,000kg planned for 2021.Furthermore,the Sani Resort has set a triple Zero Goal; net zero of carbon emissions by 2030, zero plastic and produce zero waste by 2024. As a result, the Sani/Ikos group has already banned the EU single-use plastic list. Furthermore, electric car charging stations with are offered within the resort, and all club cars are electric. In addition, Sani is reducing food waste via AI technology and launching its first zero waste restaurant, the Tomata restaurant at the Sani Marina.

The pollinator hotel of the Sani Resort

Over 60% of Sani’s products come from within 100miles of the resort, with in-resort botanical gardens supporting the farm-to-table approach of its restaurants. Sani’s food and wine range, Land of Grace, produced exclusively by local artisans, is available to taste or purchase-all profits donated to local food banks for vulnerable communities. Guests immerse in nature through guided eco-activities like Sani Wetlands, birdwatching, forest walk, beekeeping, olive harvesting and day farm trips. Home to 225 bird species (total 456 species found in Greece), the complimentary birdwatching tours in Sani Wetlands have seen a 680% increase in participation since 2013.

The Sani Resort furthermore actively works on the protection of the local biodiversity. Together with the not-for profit organisation, Bee Camp, the Sani Resort just launched the largest Bee Spot in Greece, to give shelter to pollinators and host educational activities about the importance of bees in the local eco-system. Adults and kids have the chance to have an eco-trip to the bee spot and learn more about the importance of the pollinators in the local eco-system. In addition, Sani teamed up with ISea to monitor the resident dolphin population and create the first catalogue of cetaceans in Halkidiki. Teenagers and kids participate in educational activities about the rich biodiversity in the Greek seas and the human interaction. Finally, Sani supports further biodiversity projects, such as the Sani Wetlands Project and tree-planting, as well as encourages local farmers to farm more sustainably.

On the importance of receiving the Green Key certificate, Eleni Andreadis, Director of Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility explains;

"For more than 50 years, Sani Resort has placed sustainability at the center of its activities. We have been recipients and supporters of the Green Key award since its early days. Our cooperation has helped us build and develop our commitment to sustainability as a vital part of our philosophy in pursuing the Sustainable Development Goals that serve as a blueprint for a better and more sustainable hospitality industry in Greece."

The hotel group’s recently published Environmental, Social and Governance Report 2021, which summarises all their environmental and social sustainability actions in greater detail, can be downloaded here. For more information about the Sani Resort in general, please visit their website, by clicking here.