The key to sustainable tourism and hospitality
More than 9,000 hotels and other establishments in 90+ countries are Green Key certified as of August 2026
Green Key is an international sustainability certification programme for tourism establishments. The certificate is awarded to establishments that have been assessed against Green Key’s published criteria, developed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in consultation with external relevant stakeholders. The criteria cover various areas including environmental practices, social responsibility, sustainability education and operational management.
The assessment process includes a review of documented evidence and an on-site audit based on a representative sample of evidence to determine whether the establishment meets the applicable criteria at the time of assessment. Regular assessments and periodic renewal requirements encourage continuous improvement in the areas covered by the programme.
Green Key is available to hotels, hostels, small accommodations, campsites, holiday parks, conference centres, restaurants, and attractions.
The Green Key Difference
Green key has 30 years’ experience delivering world renowned sustainability standards across the tourism and hospitality industry.
Choosing Green Key
By deciding to join Green Key, your business commits to operating in a more sustainable and efficient way. You would be surprised by just how many best practices are out there that reduce the environmental impact of your establishment without compromising the quality of the guest experience. With over 30 years of experience, Green Key has an extensive knowledge base of best practices that are shared within the network of certified establishments. More and more consumers expect that the products and services they choose are environmentally friendly and socially responsible. The Green Key certificate is considered a trustworthy symbol for consumers that your establishment meets their expectations
Green Key Criteria
Green Key covers 130 sustainability criteria across 7 categories:
🥬️ Sustainable Management
🤝 Guest Awareness and Involvement
đźšż Water
⚡️Energy and carbon
đź—‘ Waste
đź“„ Procurement
🌳 Living Environment
Don’t take our word for it…
“Working with Green Key has given us greater insights with our green journey and certification. The criteria are exhaustive and gives the hotel areas to develop.”
Stephen Parkinson, IT Systems Manager, Last Drop Village Hotel & Spa
“The Green Key team and the on-site auditor have all been super-efficient, professional and approachable. They all possess great knowledge and experience in all aspects of sustainability.”
Shah Yaqubi, General Manager, Staybridge Suites Brighton