Green Key accreditation can help your hospitality business secure environmental improvements and cost savings.

Public concern about sustainability is growing and many consumers already consider environmental performance when choosing hospitality venues. The United Nations COP26 climate change conference in 2021, hosted in Glasgow, focussed attention on climate action in Scotland like never before. 

Climate change will lead to changes in technology, laws and markets that have been described as similar in scale to the industrial revolution. New risks, opportunities and responsibilities will create significant disruption for the hospitality sector, which will in turn create business winners and losers.

As the hospitality sector rebuilds after Covid-19, we have an opportunity to work together towards a green recovery that can benefit both environment and business.

Green Key is the leading global eco-label operating in 65 countries worldwide to support and recognise environmental excellence in hotels, restaurants and venues. In addition to demonstrating your sustainability credentials with a globally recognised award, Green Key gives you a comprehensive framework for continual environmental improvement. And it can help your business save money by improving efficiency.

Watch our Green Key films

You can also find out more about Green Key in Scotland via our film.

On 14 May 2021 we ran a webinar on the climate emergency and the benefits of Green Key for the Glasgow's hospitality sector. We extend our thanks to Aileen Crawford, Head of Glasgow Convention Bureau for chairing the session and to Jeremy Smith, Co-founder of Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency for his presentation. You can view the recording of the event below.

Why Green Key?

• Green Key allows your business to meet global standards and is recognised by the UN World Tourism Organisation.

• You will hold an award that is recognised by customers across the world.

• Your business will be audited and assessed, giving you strong credibility and customer confidence.

• You will receive third-party verification from an independent Green Key National Jury.

• Your business will get access to our technical support and advice to help you on your sustainability journey.

We manage Green Key in Scotland on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education. Read more about Green Key International participation and policies.

• STEP 1: Complete an application form showing how your hotel or venue meets the 13 Green Key criteria areas. (See below for more information on the criteria.)

• STEP 2: Receive feedback on your application and complete any outstanding actions before progressing to the audit stage.

• STEP 3: We will carry out an on-site audit and advise on any actions needed to comply with Green Key criteria.

• STEP 4: Once our auditors believe that you meet the award criteria, your application will go to our independent National Green Key Jury for their decision.

• STEP 5: If successful we will provide you with promotional materials including a certificate and plaque, along with other promotional opportunities.

The certificate is valid for one year, so you will need to renew on an annual basis, demonstrating evidence on continual improvement.