Tourism establishments across Scotland awarded leading eco-certificate

Ten tourism establishments from across Scotland have been announced as the recipients of the coveted Green Key eco-certificate.

The establishments successful in meeting the Green Key criteria are:

• Seven Marriot Hotels:
  • Courtyard by Marriott Aberdeen Airport
  • Delta Hotels by Marriott Aberdeen
  • Residence Inn by Marriott Aberdeen
  • Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh
  • Residence Inn by Marriott Edinburgh
  • Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh
  • Glasgow Marriott Hotel
• voco Grand Central Hotel, an IHG Hotel, Glasgow
• Glasgow Science Centre
• Landal Brunston Castle, South Ayrshire

Since 1994, the Green Key Certificate has been a leading standard of excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. We are the national operator for the certification programme in Scotland, which is licensed globally by the Foundation for Environmental Education.

Through Green Key, we offer a comprehensive in-person audit of premises and additional support to help tourism establishments achieve year-on-year environmental improvements and reduce climate-change-causing greenhouse gas emissions. From energy use in hotel rooms and laundry, to food waste in kitchens, to how employees work day-to-day are all areas they offer advice on through the audit process.

The Green Key audit also provides an ideal opportunity to access advice on how to make financial savings, such as through more efficient use of energy and resources - vital with the current high level of operating costs.

And with the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow having put a spotlight on sustainability in Scotland’s tourism sector, Green Key provides a way to help businesses showcase their green credentials to a large pool of environmentally conscious consumers.

Tom Brock OBE, our Chair, said: “We congratulate all 10 tourism establishments across Scotland receiving Green Key certification and look forward to supporting them to achieve continued environmental improvements, that can also result in financial savings.

“We have a highly skilled team of staff available to assist Green Key applicants with both technical support and advice and encourage you to get in touch today to start your sustainability journey.”

Finn Bolding Thomsen, International Green Key Director at Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) said: “We are delighted to recognise 10 establishments across Scotland as becoming Green Key certified, and congratulate their efforts to foster a more sustainable future.”

Lyn Donnelly, Senior Responsible Tourism Manager at VisitScotland, said: “We all have a duty of care to protect the natural assets which make Scotland so special. Visitors are becoming increasingly aware of their impact on the world around them. We want to support their desire to make sustainable choices by equipping those within the tourism industry with the knowledge and understanding of how their business can meet these needs. 

“Gaining a sustainability certification is a fantastic opportunity for Scottish tourism businesses to show visitors their commitment to environmental and sustainable practices.”

Green Key is open to a wide range of establishments including hotels, visitor attractions, conference centres, campsites and restaurants and helps them meet global environmental standards recognised by the UN World Tourism Organisation.

Find out more about how to apply for Green Key and other assistance Keep Scotland Beautiful offer on the Green Key webpages.