Edinburgh tourism establishments receive Green Key

Two tourism establishments in Edinburgh have been announced as recipients of the coveted Green Key eco-certificate.

Following our audits, The Royal Yacht Britannia and Fingal are two of the 21 new Green Key recipients, taking the Scottish total to 26.

During the ongoing maintenance on both ships, wood reclaimed was repurposed for other projects such as handrails and dowels while other wood was sent to a social enterprise in Edinburgh.

Waste bins are mirrored across both sites to promote a universal waste management strategy and staff, despite no requirements, proactively promote the Edinburgh tram system and encourage guests to use it.

The Royal Yacht Britannia have aligned themselves to the United Nations Race to Net Zero ambition, pledging a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030. On Fingal, energy use is tracked by month and great progress has already been made to reduce consumption.

Barry Fisher, our Chief Executive, said: “I’m delighted to present The Royal Yacht Britannia and Fingal with their eco-certificates to recognise their exceptional standard of excellence in environmental responsibility.

“A Green Key certificate gives tourists the peace of mind that they are visiting somewhere that is constantly striving to improve its environmental credentials and combat climate change.

“Both of The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust establishments are doing just that so these certificates are very well deserved.

“I would like to encourage anyone who is on their own sustainable tourism journey, at any stage, to get in touch with us to join the Green Key family.”

Charlie Granleese, Guest Experience & Environmental Manager at Fingal, said: “Aboard Fingal, our environmental commitment is a journey whereby we look to make consistent improvements, ensuring that we do our part in protecting the world for future generations.

“The crew are proud to have become a Green Key certified hotel. We endeavour to conduct our business in a way that “does no harm”, believing in the principle of caring for the environment and the application of circular economy values. We continually strive to incorporate environmental good practice into our workplace.”

Sarah Thomson, Visitor Experience & Environmental Manager at The Royal Yacht Britannia, added: “On The Royal Yacht Britannia, we feel it is imperative for Scotland’s tourism sector to put the environment at the heart of operations and it is our aim to lead the industry in its sustainability endeavours, raising Scotland’s reputation as a green tourism destination.

“We are passionate about doing the right thing to make a difference and have involved the whole team in our environmental journey. In prioritising sustainability, we believe in fostering a positive community impact and ensuring long-term resilience against environmental challenges. It is exciting for all aboard to build on this award’s success as we continue to explore new opportunities and initiatives.”

A Green Key eco-certificate has been the leading standard of excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry since 1994 – and launched in Scotland in 2021.

It is operated across Scotland by us and 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.

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 we can offer your establishment.