Greek Hospitality Sector Going Green

Greece currently holds the third spot in a world listing of eco-friendly facilities with 246 hotel units awarded the Green Key eco label for environmental practices, and has also been endorsed by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) for its commitment to promoting sustainable tourism products and services.

The Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (EEPF), representing the Foundation for Environmental Education’s (FEE) Green Key standard in Greece, organized an annual meeting of national representatives at Athens’ Electra Palace Hotel last month.

Participants had the chance to exchange experiences as well as insight and offer recommendations with regards to the challenges ahead aiming to achieve sustainable management through a dynamic program that combines environmental protection with the needs of the tourism market. EEPF said it expects the number of facilities gaining Greek Key certification in Greece to reach 330 this year.

The Green Key project – a leading certification standard for excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation in the tourism industry – started as a pilot program in Greece in 2009. Today, there are some 2,608 Greek Key holders in over 55 countries.

The Green Key label is open to hotels, hostels, small accommodations, campsites, restaurants and attractions.