Green Key — Levels of Green Key Certification

Levels of Green Key Certification

3.1 What Levels Does Green Key Have?

Green Key has three different levels of certification: Bronze, Silver, and Gold.

Each level has its own criteria based on different sustainability requirements. These requirements are categorized into 12 different sustainability themes: management, communication, social involvement, water, cleaning, waste, energy, building and green space, mobility, and food and beverage. The criteria are reviewed and adjusted annually to ensure they are up-to-date with current developments and trends in sustainability. There are mandatory and optional standards.

The Bronze level is the first level and requires a participating organization to be aware of its environmental impact. Organizations must meet a number of basic requirements, including energy and water conservation, waste separation, and the use of environmentally friendly cleaning products.

The Silver level builds upon the basic requirements of the Bronze level and focuses on further sustainable measures. Aspects such as environmental policy, sustainable procurement, and education for both guests and employees are important criteria at this level.

The Gold level is the highest level within the Green Key certification. Participants in this certification must achieve and maintain the highest standards of sustainability. Criteria for the Gold level include the use of renewable energy, limiting CO2 emissions, and active engagement with local communities on sustainability.

Achieving a higher level within the Green Key certification requires more effort and investment, but also offers more benefits. An organization that meets the criteria of a higher level can differentiate itself from competitors, strengthen relationships with customers and partners, and positively contribute to the environment. Below are the criteria for each level.

Bronze

1. Implementing an environmental policy and plan
2. Training employees on the environmental policy and organization's sustainability objectives
3. Taking measures to save energy, such as using energy-efficient equipment and limiting unnecessary energy consumption
4. Reducing water usage and reusing water where possible
5. Minimizing waste through recycling and reducing packaging material
6. Promoting sustainable mobility and the use of public transportation
7. Creating green areas and protecting local flora and fauna

Silver

1. Monitoring and reporting environmental performance and setting measurable goals
2. Reducing CO2 emissions by using renewable energy sources and limiting transport emissions
3. Reducing water consumption and waste through more efficient installations and systems
4. Reducing waste through targeted waste management and processing
5. Promoting sustainable procurement and supporting local producers

Gold

1. Phasing out fossil fuels completely and transitioning to renewable energy sources
2. Reducing water consumption to the lowest possible level
3. Minimizing waste through targeted prevention and recycling
4. Reducing CO2 emissions through green transportation, green energy, and energy efficiency
5. Promoting sustainable mobility among employees through incentive programs and initiatives

By meeting these criteria, organizations can improve their environmental performance, reduce ecological impact, and save costs. The Green Key certification rewards organizations committed to sustainability and provides them with a platform to communicate their efforts to their customers and partners.

3.2 Benefits of Gold Status

What is Gold Status?
Having Gold status means that your company meets all the criteria necessary to promote and implement sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. These criteria include reducing waste and promoting the use of sustainable energy sources. Companies with Gold status are leaders in their industry and demonstrate awareness of the challenges we face today. The benefits of Gold status are outlined below.

Increased Visibility and Reputation
Companies with Gold status are often listed on various websites and promotion platforms, making them more visible to customers interested in sustainability. By increasing your visibility, you can attract new customers and build your reputation as a sustainable business.

Cost Savings
Implementing sustainable and environmentally friendly practices can save costs for your business. By reducing waste and using sustainable energy sources, you can save on energy costs and waste disposal expenses. Additionally, using environmentally friendly materials can reduce the resources needed to produce your products.

Access to Greener Markets
Achieving Gold status may mean gaining access to greener markets and customers interested in sustainability. This can provide new opportunities for your business and help you expand your customer base.

Benefits of Gold Status for the Environment
In addition to the benefits for your business, achieving Gold status also has significant benefits for the environment. Some of these benefits include:

Reduction of CO2 Emissions
Companies that achieve Gold status often reduce their CO2 emissions by using sustainable energy sources and reducing energy waste. This significantly reduces the impact of their activities on the environment.

Reduction of Waste and Resource Use
Companies with Gold status often aim to reduce their environmental impact by reducing waste and resource use. They opt for materials that are more sustainable and less harmful to the environment and work to reduce production waste.

Protection of Biodiversity
Companies with Gold status often focus on protecting and preserving biodiversity and ecosystems. For example, by promoting sustainable agriculture, companies can contribute to the protection of plant and animal species.