Ayla Celebrates Silica's Renewal of Prestigious Global Green Key Certification - Jordan News

Jordan News

21-04-2025

Ayla Celebrates Silica's Renewal of Prestigious Global Green Key Certification Sahel Dudin, Managing Director of Ayla Oasis Development Company, sponsored a the renewal of Silica's Green Key certification for the third consecutive year. The restaurant, located in Ayla, was recognized once again for its commitment to sustainable environmental and health practices and its adherence to the internationally recognized standards of this prestigious certification. اضافة اعلان Silica is the first restaurant in Jordan and the region to maintain this environmental certification for three consecutive years, thanks to its consistent application of the Green Key's sustainability standards. The certification renewal followed a thorough audit by the Royal Marine Conservation Society of Jordan, the national operator of the program, and was approved by the program's national committee. Silica met dozens of criteria across several categories, standing out as a leader in sustainable tourism and demonstrating ongoing excellence in environmental protection and responsible operations. Sahel Dudin, Managing Director of Ayla Oasis Development Company, highlighted the importance of this milestone, which he said reflects the success of Ayla's long-term sustainability policies. He noted that Ayla's commitment, together with its partners, has earned consistent international recognition for achievements in environmental preservation and alignment with global sustainability standards. He added: 'Silica's Green Key certification and other achievements confirm that Ayla has delivered on its promise of exceptional performance and meeting visitor expectations for a truly sustainable destination. It also motivates us to stay committed to our ambitious green transformation goals. Ayla's environmental successes reflect our long-term vision for sustainability and inspire continued efforts in preserving our natural heritage.' He added: 'Silica's Green Key certification and other achievements confirm that Ayla has delivered on its promise of exceptional performance and meeting visitor expectations for a truly sustainable destination. It also motivates us to stay committed to our ambitious green transformation goals.' Alia'a Al-Qatawneh, Admin and Sustainable Development Program Coordinator of the JREDS Aqaba Office called the certification renewal a unique achievement that reflects the growing focus on sustainable development in tourism and collaborative efforts to combat climate change between public and private sectors, along with civil society. He praised Ayla for its leadership in environmental responsibility, noting that several of its sites have earned top-tier certifications, including the Blue Flag, as a result of well-executed environmental strategies. Al-Qatawneh emphasized the importance of strengthening the tourism sector in Aqaba through sustainability. She highlighted the collaboration between public and private sectors and civil society in supporting biodiversity, economic growth, and sustainable practices. This milestone adds to a series of accomplishments that position Ayla as one of the region's leading sustainable development projects. Highlights include raising the Blue Flag at several of its facilities, such as the B12 Beach Club, La Plage Beach Club, and Ayla Marina. Ayla Golf Club also received four international awards from the Sustainable Luxury Awards 2024, ranking among the most eco-conscious golf destinations globally. The awards included Most Sustainable 18-Hole Golf Course in the Region, Most Sustainable Desert Golf Course Worldwide, Most Sustainable Mountain Golf Course in Jordan, and Most Sustainable Championship Golf Course in the Middle East Silica is located within the Ayla Golf Club and overlooks the Greg Norman-designed course. Spanning 500 square meters, the restaurant is a scenic spot ideal for golf enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The Green Key program sets international standards made up of mandatory and guideline-based criteria. These are consistent across participating countries but can be adapted to local legislation, infrastructure, climate, and culture. The standards emphasize environmental management and technical compliance, and they also encourage the engagement of guests, staff, suppliers, and local communities. Areas of focus include environmental management, water and energy usage, waste reduction, guest and staff education, food and beverage practices, and sustainable operations overall, and implementing local community support activities and others.