Latest news with #GreenKey
IOL News
06-08-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Boschendal Wine Estate achieves Green Key Certification: a milestone in sustainable tourism
Cindy-Lee Cloete, WESSA CEO and Amy Kropman - Boschendal CEO at the handover of the Green Key Image: Anneri Wasserman: Basque Imagery. As global tourism is set to surge, predicted to generate up to 30 billion visits and contribute a staggering $16 trillion to the global economy by 2034, the sustainability of this industry comes under increasing scrutiny. The World Economic Forum's newly released report, Travel and Tourism at a Turning Point, reveals a paradox: nature is the primary draw for tourists, yet unchecked tourism practices are wreaking havoc on biodiversity and escalating waste and carbon emissions. If left unaddressed, tourism's greenhouse gas emissions could soar to as high as 15% of global totals within the next decade, threatening the ecosystems that attract travellers in the first place. In this climate of concern, Boschendal Wine Estate has remarkably positioned itself as a pioneering force in sustainable tourism by officially earning the prestigious Green Key certification for its accommodation offerings. This accomplishment not only makes Boschendal the first wine estate globally to achieve this honour, but it also reinforces the estate's steadfast commitment to regenerative practices that benefit both the land and the communities it supports. Boschendal Wine Estate Image: Anneri Wasserman: Basque Imagery. Amy Kropman, CEO of Boschendal, expressed pride in this significant achievement. 'As we honour 340 years of history this September, becoming the first wine estate in the world to earn Green Key recognition for its accommodation is a powerful validation of our regenerative philosophy in action. We aim to regenerate not only the soil but also the people who live, work, and stay with us.' The Green Key certification, which is administered by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) and coordinated internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), is renowned as one of the most respected eco-labels in the tourism sector. It demands rigorous compliance and is awarded to establishments that excel in environmental management, resource efficiency, ethical practices, and community engagement. Cindy-Lee Cloete, CEO of WESSA, applauded Boschendal for setting a 'truly remarkable milestone' in the domain of sustainable tourism, viewing the estate's certification as a testament to its commitment to heritage, innovation, and environmental stewardship. 'This certification formally recognises Boschendal's leadership in sustainable tourism,' she said. Boschendal has undertaken numerous sustainability initiatives, including the integration of renewable energy sources tailored to its operational needs through a burgeoning solar infrastructure. Additionally, since 1 August, the estate has introduced a 2% Conservation Levy on all accommodation stays. This funding supports biodiversity-friendly, regenerative farming practices, conservation efforts for indigenous flora and fauna, and enhancements in water and energy efficiency to ensure the land's long-term resilience. The estate's commitment to sustainable tourism is evident in its alignment with global best practices. Key measures include: A dedicated environmental manager and green committee overseeing progress and governance. A formal sustainability policy and action plan targeting climate change, biodiversity protection, resource efficiency, and social equity. Measurable reductions in carbon emissions, water consumption, and waste output, complemented by guest engagement and transparent reporting. Local partnerships that support initiatives including biodiversity conservation, youth skills development, and ethical supplier sourcing. Aside from its Green Key certification, Boschendal's sustainability journey is encapsulated in its Future of Farming initiative, which aims for ecological renewal through regenerative practices. These include holistic soil regeneration to optimise plant-microbiome systems, integrated livestock rotations, and onsite smart monitoring tools that enhance precision irrigation and land management. 'Being part of Boschendal's Green Key journey has been a unique and rewarding experience,' said Tevya Visser, Green Key Programme Manager at WESSA. 'This achievement sets the tone for environmentally responsible hospitality across South Africa's wine regions.' As the urgency for regenerative approaches becomes ever more apparent, the WEF report warns that unchecked tourism growth could culminate in irreversible damage to natural heritage sites and ecosystems. Boschendal's proactive initiatives serve not only as a model of resilience but also as a blueprint for environmental stewardship. 'We see Green Key not as a badge, but as a commitment to regeneration, accountability, and purpose. Guests from key markets like the UK and Germany increasingly seek aligned, impactful travel experiences—and this certification brings credibility to that promise,' said Kropman. The official Green Key handover ceremony on 1 August saw the estate's senior leadership alongside Green Key representatives celebrate this significant milestone. At Boschendal the combination of world-class hospitality and ecological stewardship shows a promising way for heritage destinations to evolve.
Hamilton Spectator
22-07-2025
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
Handlery Union Square Hotel Awarded 4-Key Green Key Global Certification
SAN FRANCISCO, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Handlery Union Square Hotel has earned a prestigious 4-Key rating from Green Key Global , one of the hospitality industry's leading sustainability certification providers. The certification recognizes the hotel's comprehensive environmental programs and positions the nearly 100-year-old family business as a leader in sustainable hospitality practices. The 4-Key Green Key Global certification signifies 'a property that has shown national industry leadership and commitment to protecting the environment through wide-ranging policies and practices.' 'Achieving this certification validates what we've been doing for years – operating responsibly while providing exceptional guest experiences,' said Jack Handlery, General Manager of Handlery Union Square Hotel. 'As California's oldest family-owned hotel company, we understand the importance of preserving our environment for future generations.' The three-month certification process involved extensive documentation and an independent audit of the hotel's environmental practices across multiple categories, including waste minimization, energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable purchasing policies. 'Our team has embraced these practices as part of our daily operations,' added Handlery. 'This certification is a recognition of our ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility.' Leadership Team Expansion Complementing the sustainability certification, Handlery Hotels has welcomed Brenda Alberigi as Director of Sales. Alberigi most recently served as Director of Sales for Archer Hotel Napa and has over 28 years of experience in the Bay Area hospitality market. 'More travelers and corporate clients are prioritizing sustainability in their accommodation choices,' said Alberigi. 'This Green Key certification provides tangible proof of our environmental commitment and helps differentiate us in the marketplace.' About Handlery Hotels Founded by Harry Handlery in 1928, Handlery Hotels is California's oldest family-owned hotel company, serving guests for nearly 100 years. Two premier properties welcome guests visiting both northern and southern California: Handlery Union Square Hotel in San Francisco and Handlery Hotel San Diego . Both hotels feature heated outdoor pools, on-site parking, and prime locations near major attractions. Frequent guests can take advantage of the Handlery Rewards program , which offers exclusive perks and complimentary offers to members. For more information, visit . The Green Key Global certification adds to Handlery's recent recognitions, including the 2025 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice award. Media please note: For interview requests and photos, please contact Beatrice Kilat at (415) 745-9109 or beatrice@ . Media Contact: Beatrice Kilat Landis Communications Inc. beatrice@ (415) 745-9109
Edinburgh Reporter
22-07-2025
- Business
- Edinburgh Reporter
Green credentials shine out at Edinburgh hotel
Edinburgh hotel lands global eco-award for third consecutive year One of Edinburgh's best-known hotels has been recognised for putting planet before profit – scooping one of the world's top environmental honours for the third year running. The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa has once again been awarded the prestigious Green Key certificate, a coveted international mark of excellence for sustainability in the hospitality sector. Backed by the Foundation for Environmental Education, the Green Key is a stamp of approval for hotels that meet and maintain the highest standards in green practice, with fewer than 8,000 holders worldwide. It's also the leading global eco-label operating in over 70 countries worldwide to support and recognise environmental excellence in hotels, restaurants and venues. Green Key provides a comprehensive framework for continual environmental improvement. While five-star hotels might not immediately be associated with eco-efficiency, the Sheraton Grand has proved that luxury and responsibility can go hand in hand, earning serious recognition in the process. Martijn Zengerink, General Manager at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, said: 'This is the third consecutive year that we've effectively demonstrated our commitment to environmental excellence. 'This recognition is much more than a certificate on the wall, it's confirmation that our team is continuously doing our part to be sustainable in every area. Our guests expect it, as do our stakeholders but most importantly, we hold ourselves accountable to these standards. 'This award is for the whole team. Every single member plays a part – whether it's measuring food waste, rethinking procurement, or simply switching off lights at the right time.' The Green Key is open to hotels, hostels, holiday parks, attractions and restaurants that want to go beyond the basics – with strict criteria covering energy use, water consumption, waste, sourcing and staff engagement. The hotel has taken bold steps to cut waste and boost green outcomes across its operations – with results that are being noticed both behind the scenes and by those booking big-ticket corporate events. One of the stand-out successes has come from teaming up with Winnow, an AI-powered food waste platform that helps commercial kitchens track what's being thrown away. Since introducing the system, the hotel has slashed food waste by 15% and seen knock-on benefits from reduced labour hours to a leaner, more efficient kitchen operation. The hotel's approach to sustainability now also extends to every touchpoint with clients – especially major businesses looking to align with like-minded venues. Martijn added: 'We've seen a real shift in conversations with corporate clients. Sustainability is now part of the negotiation. They want to know what we're doing, how we're doing it, and how it supports their own ESG goals. 'That might mean building plant-based dishes into event menus, or ensuring surplus food is redistributed rather than binned. 'We're proud to be part of a global movement that's showing the hotel industry what real sustainability looks like.' So far this year, six large-scale events have led with a plant-based first course, with another eight already in the diary. Elsewhere, the hotel has dialled down single-use plastics, rolled out energy-saving tech across rooms and back-of-house, and made water-saving changes to its spa and laundry systems. All these efforts feed into the rigorous standards set by the Green Key programme, which requires continual progress, frequent audits and full transparency. The Sheraton Grand remains one of Edinburgh's leading luxury hotels and in its 40th year is continuing to receive industry recognition. Like this: Like Related
Scotsman
17-07-2025
- Business
- Scotsman
Green credentials shine bright at Edinburgh hotel
One of Edinburgh's best-known hotels has been recognised for putting planet before profit – scooping one of the world's top environmental honours for the third year running. Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa has once again been awarded the prestigious Green Key certificate, a coveted international mark of excellence for sustainability in the hospitality sector. Backed by the Foundation for Environmental Education, the Green Key is a stamp of approval for hotels that meet and maintain the highest standards in green practice, with fewer than 8,000 holders worldwide. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad It's also the leading global eco-label operating in over 70 countries worldwide to support and recognise environmental excellence in hotels, restaurants and venues. Green Key provides a comprehensive framework for continual environmental improvement. Green Key certificate awarded to The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa While five-star hotels might not immediately be associated with eco-efficiency, the Sheraton Grand has proved that luxury and responsibility can go hand in hand, earning serious recognition in the process. Martijn Zengerink, General Manager at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, said: 'This is the third consecutive year that we've effectively demonstrated our commitment to environmental excellence. 'This recognition is much more than a certificate on the wall, it's confirmation that our team is continuously doing our part to be sustainable in every area. Our guests expect it, as do our stakeholders but most importantly, we hold ourselves accountable to these standards. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'This award is for the whole team. Every single member plays a part - whether it's measuring food waste, rethinking procurement, or simply switching off lights at the right time.' The Green Key is open to hotels, hostels, holiday parks, attractions and restaurants that want to go beyond the basics – with strict criteria covering energy use, water consumption, waste, sourcing and staff engagement. The hotel has taken bold steps to cut waste and boost green outcomes across its operations – with results that are being noticed both behind the scenes and by those booking big-ticket corporate events. One of the stand-out successes has come from teaming up with Winnow, an AI-powered food waste platform that helps commercial kitchens track what's being thrown away. Since introducing the system, the hotel has slashed food waste by 15% and seen knock-on benefits from reduced labour hours to a leaner, more efficient kitchen operation. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The hotel's approach to sustainability now also extends to every touchpoint with clients – especially major businesses looking to align with like-minded venues. Martijn added: 'We've seen a real shift in conversations with corporate clients. Sustainability is now part of the negotiation. They want to know what we're doing, how we're doing it, and how it supports their own ESG goals. 'That might mean building plant-based dishes into event menus, or ensuring surplus food is redistributed rather than binned. 'We're proud to be part of a global movement that's showing the hotel industry what real sustainability looks like.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad So far this year, six large-scale events have led with a plant-based first course, with another eight already in the diary. Elsewhere, the hotel has dialled down single-use plastics, rolled out energy-saving tech across rooms and back-of-house, and made water-saving changes to its spa and laundry systems. All these efforts feed into the rigorous standards set by the Green Key programme, which requires continual progress, frequent audits and full transparency. The Sheraton Grand remains one of Edinburgh's leading luxury hotels and in its 40th year is continuing to receive industry recognition. To find out more, please visit:
Time Business News
10-07-2025
- Time Business News
Sustainable Travel in France: Eco-Friendly Tips for Travelers
France, with its charming villages, bustling cities, and breathtaking landscapes, is a dream destination for travelers worldwide. As tourism grows, so does the need for sustainable travel practices to protect the environment and preserve cultural heritage for future generations. Travelers exploring France can embrace eco-friendly choices that align with the country's efforts toward sustainability while enriching their own travel experiences. France is home to delicate ecosystems, historic sites, and cultural landmarks that face pressures from over-tourism and climate change. Sustainable travel in France is about making conscious choices that reduce your environmental footprint, support local communities, and protect cultural and natural heritage while you explore. It encourages travelers to think beyond visiting and focus on preserving. One of the simplest ways to travel sustainably in France is to plan your trip during off-peak seasons. Visiting popular destinations like Paris, Provence, or the French Riviera during spring or autumn not only provides a more relaxed experience but also helps reduce the strain on local infrastructure and resources during high seasons. Off-peak travel supports local businesses year-round and reduces the environmental impact of overcrowding. France offers excellent public transportation, making it easier for travelers to reduce their carbon footprint. Instead of renting a car for every trip, consider using France's extensive train network, which connects major cities and scenic towns efficiently. The TGV (high-speed train) is a low-emission alternative to domestic flights, allowing you to travel comfortably while enjoying the countryside views. Within cities, use trams, buses, or bicycles. Many cities like Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux have bike-sharing services and pedestrian-friendly areas, making eco-friendly commuting easier while allowing you to experience the local atmosphere more intimately. Opt for accommodations with clear sustainability policies or certifications such as Green Key or EU Ecolabel. Many eco-friendly hotels, boutique guesthouses, and family-run inns in France implement energy-saving measures, water conservation practices, and waste reduction initiatives to promote responsible tourism. Staying in locally-owned accommodations also supports the local economy while reducing the environmental costs of larger chains. France is known for its culinary excellence, and sustainable travel offers an opportunity to explore it responsibly. Support local farmers' markets, where you can find fresh, seasonal produce, cheese, bread, and wines. Dining in local restaurants and choosing dishes made with locally sourced ingredients help reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances. Additionally, consider reducing food waste by ordering appropriate portions and carrying reusable containers for leftovers during your day trips. Minimizing single-use plastics is an important step in sustainable travel. Carry a reusable water bottle as France has many public water fountains, particularly in Paris. Use reusable bags for shopping and avoid plastic cutlery by carrying your own reusable set during picnics or food market visits. These small actions collectively contribute to reducing plastic pollution in France's cities and natural landscapes. While France is home to globally recognized landmarks, consider exploring lesser-known destinations to help distribute tourism more evenly across the country. Visiting smaller towns and rural areas not only offers a unique perspective on French culture but also supports local communities that may not typically benefit from tourism. When visiting popular attractions, follow guidelines to protect cultural heritage sites and natural areas. Stay on marked paths during hikes in the French Alps or Pyrenees, respect wildlife, and avoid activities that exploit animals for entertainment. Choose experiences that align with sustainable practices, such as hiking, cycling tours, and wildlife observation led by certified local guides who follow ethical practices. Wine tours in organic vineyards, cooking classes using local ingredients, or workshops with local artisans are excellent ways to engage in immersive, sustainable travel experiences in France. Packing light reduces the overall weight of transportation and contributes to lower carbon emissions. Choose versatile clothing suitable for various activities and weather conditions to minimize the number of items you need. Bring eco-friendly toiletries, reef-safe sunscreen, and reusable items like water bottles and tote bags to reduce waste during your travels. Sustainable travel is not just about environmental practices; it also involves cultural respect. Learn a few basic French phrases, respect local customs, and engage with local communities with mindfulness. Supporting local artisans by purchasing handmade souvenirs instead of mass-produced items is a meaningful way to contribute to the local economy while preserving cultural heritage. Despite efforts to travel sustainably, travel inevitably has an environmental impact. Consider offsetting your carbon emissions by contributing to certified projects that focus on renewable energy, reforestation, or community development initiatives. Many airlines and independent organizations provide carbon offset programs that travelers can use to balance their travel footprint. When planning your trip, look for a France tour package that aligns with your sustainability goals. Many operators are now offering France travel packages that incorporate eco-friendly transportation, locally-owned accommodations, and immersive cultural experiences while maintaining comfort and quality. These packages help travelers explore responsibly without the stress of planning every detail independently. Sustainable travel in France is about making conscious decisions that contribute to the well-being of the environment, local communities, and cultural preservation while ensuring you have a fulfilling travel experience. By choosing eco-friendly transportation, supporting local businesses, minimizing waste, and respecting local customs, you play a part in promoting responsible tourism in France. Whether you are planning a detailed France travel itinerary or seeking Paris France trip packages for your next adventure, embracing sustainable practices can make your journey more meaningful. If you are looking for a reliable partner to guide your sustainable travels in France, consider exploring France travel packages with TourOn, where responsible travel meets seamless experiences for conscious travelers. Author Bio Reethika is an aspiring content writer with a strong passion for the tourism and travel industry. Though a fresher, she possesses excellent knowledge of global destinations, travel trends, and audience engagement strategies. With a natural flair for storytelling and a deep curiosity about different cultures, she creates informative, inspiring, and well-researched content that sparks the wanderlust in every reader. Eager to grow and contribute meaningfully, she is committed to delivering high-quality content that connects with travelers and adds value to the industry. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
