Category Code
130
The establishment provides its staff with the opportunity to evaluate its environmental and social performance annually and has a procedure for responding to this feedback.
Criterion Code alt
1.24
Criterion Category
Criterion Subcategory
Imperative for
-
Guideline for
Expl. Συνάφεια
Allowing staff to evaluate the environmental and social performance of the establishment encourages active participation and continuous improvement. It also helps identify strengths, challenges, and opportunities for enhancing sustainability performance at the site level.
Expl. Προσδοκίες εφαρμογής
The establishment implements an annual, structured feedback process through which staff evaluate the establishment’s environmental and social performance.
The feedback is collected, analysed and used to inform actions or improvements. The process not only gathers suggestions but also monitors trends in staff perceptions and satisfaction related to sustainability and management engagement. Results are shared with staff, and responses to the feedback are formulated and communicated within 2 months.
Feedback is collected through regular surveys, feedback meetings, or digital/physical suggestion boxes managed by the Green Key Establishment Representative or another responsible person. Feedback may be anonymous, and multiple formats are offered to ensure inclusiveness.
Green Key provides a standardised staff survey (available in the Green Key Toolbox) that may be used or integrated into the feedback process.
For first-time applicants, a written plan describes how the staff feedback process will be implemented and how results will be reviewed and used to support improvements.
Expl. Τεκμηρίωση ελέγχου
During the audit, the establishment presents:
- evidence showing that a staff feedback system is in place (i.e. how feedback is collected);
- evidence of regular use (e.g. dates, participation rates);
- documentation analysing the results of the most recent feedback round, identifying key insights and areas for improvement; and
- a summary of actions taken in response to staff feedback, which may be linked to the establishment’s sustainability action plan (see criterion 1.3).
In specific circumstances, for first-time applicants, the establishment presents a written plan describing how the staff feedback process will be implemented and how the results will be reviewed and used to support improvements.
During the visual inspection, at least 1 staff member present during the audit is interviewed to confirm their awareness of the feedback process, their satisfaction with it, and their perception of how management responds to their input.
Criterion Code
124
Upload Files
Yes
Upload Photos
No
Upload Performace Data
No
Applicable HH
Guideline
Applicable CHP
Guideline
Applicable SA
Not applicable
Applicable CC
Guideline
Applicable R
Guideline
Applicable A
Guideline
Criterion Title EN
The establishment provides its staff with the opportunity to evaluate its environmental and social performance annually and has a procedure for responding to this feedback.
Expl. Relevance EN
Allowing staff to evaluate the environmental and social performance of the establishment encourages active participation and continuous improvement. It also helps identify strengths, challenges, and opportunities for enhancing sustainability performance at the site level.
Expl. Expectations EN
The establishment implements an annual, structured feedback process through which staff evaluate the establishment’s environmental and social performance.
The feedback is collected, analysed and used to inform actions or improvements. The process not only gathers suggestions but also monitors trends in staff perceptions and satisfaction related to sustainability and management engagement. Results are shared with staff, and responses to the feedback are formulated and communicated within 2 months.
Feedback is collected through regular surveys, feedback meetings, or digital/physical suggestion boxes managed by the Green Key Establishment Representative or another responsible person. Feedback may be anonymous, and multiple formats are offered to ensure inclusiveness.
Green Key provides a standardised staff survey (available in the Green Key Toolbox) that may be used or integrated into the feedback process.
For first-time applicants, a written plan describes how the staff feedback process will be implemented and how results will be reviewed and used to support improvements.
Expl. Audit Evidence EN
During the audit, the establishment presents:
- evidence showing that a staff feedback system is in place (i.e. how feedback is collected);
- evidence of regular use (e.g. dates, participation rates);
- documentation analysing the results of the most recent feedback round, identifying key insights and areas for improvement; and
- a summary of actions taken in response to staff feedback, which may be linked to the establishment’s sustainability action plan (see criterion 1.3).
In specific circumstances, for first-time applicants, the establishment presents a written plan describing how the staff feedback process will be implemented and how the results will be reviewed and used to support improvements.
During the visual inspection, at least 1 staff member present during the audit is interviewed to confirm their awareness of the feedback process, their satisfaction with it, and their perception of how management responds to their input.
Informative and educational material is displayed in staff areas to promote responsible behaviour.
Criterion Code alt
1.23
Criterion Category
Criterion Subcategory
Imperative for
Guideline for
-
Expl. Συνάφεια
Displaying informative and educational material in staff areas helps strengthen staff awareness and engagement in sustainability efforts. It encourages staff to adopt environmentally and socially responsible behaviour and supports the daily implementation of the establishment’s sustainability practices.
Expl. Προσδοκίες εφαρμογής
The establishment displays informative and educational material in staff areas that supports staff understanding of and participation in sustainability efforts. The material encourages staff to use resources wisely (e.g. switching off the light/taps, using less paper, etc.) and supports efficient use of equipment and machines (e.g. the dishwasher, laundry machines, vacuum cleaners, etc.). Where relevant, the material also addresses topics such as the protection of local biodiversity and social responsibility (e.g. how to report discrimination).
Communication material is informative, visually engaging and it is maintained up to date. Informative and educational material may take the form of staff notice boards, posters, stickers, leaflets, newsletters, digital screens or apps, and may be directed at individuals, groups, departments or all staff members.
Expl. Τεκμηρίωση ελέγχου
During the visual inspection, the auditor confirms that informative and educational material is displayed in staff areas and aligns with the requirements above.
Criterion Code
123
Upload Files
No
Upload Photos
Yes
Upload Performace Data
No
Applicable HH
Imperative
Applicable CHP
Imperative
Applicable SA
Not applicable
Applicable CC
Imperative
Applicable R
Imperative
Applicable A
Imperative
Criterion Title EN
Informative and educational material is displayed in staff areas to promote responsible behaviour.
Expl. Relevance EN
Displaying informative and educational material in staff areas helps strengthen staff awareness and engagement in sustainability efforts. It encourages staff to adopt environmentally and socially responsible behaviour and supports the daily implementation of the establishment’s sustainability practices.
Expl. Expectations EN
The establishment displays informative and educational material in staff areas that supports staff understanding of and participation in sustainability efforts. The material encourages staff to use resources wisely (e.g. switching off the light/taps, using less paper, etc.) and supports efficient use of equipment and machines (e.g. the dishwasher, laundry machines, vacuum cleaners, etc.). Where relevant, the material also addresses topics such as the protection of local biodiversity and social responsibility (e.g. how to report discrimination).
Communication material is informative, visually engaging and it is maintained up to date. Informative and educational material may take the form of staff notice boards, posters, stickers, leaflets, newsletters, digital screens or apps, and may be directed at individuals, groups, departments or all staff members.
The housekeeping service knows and implements the procedures regarding change of towels and sheets.
Criterion Code alt
1.22
Criterion Category
Criterion Subcategory
Imperative for
Guideline for
-
Expl. Συνάφεια
Reducing the frequency of towel and sheet changes helps decrease water, energy, and detergent use. Housekeeping staff understand and correctly apply the procedures that allow guests to reuse towels and sheets, thereby reducing the establishment’s environmental footprint.
Expl. Προσδοκίες εφαρμογής
In addition to the establishment offering guests the option to reuse towels and sheets (see criterion 6.21), the housekeeping staff are informed of and implement the related procedures.
The establishment provides housekeeping staff with clear and accessible instructions and guidance on towel and sheet reuse procedures.
If the housekeeping service is outsourced, the establishment ensures that training on towel and sheet reuse procedures is included in the agreement with the contracted housekeeping company.
Expl. Τεκμηρίωση ελέγχου
During the visual inspection, the auditor conducts at least 1 interview with a member of the housekeeping staff to verify that they know the procedures regarding change of towels and sheets.
Criterion Code
122
Upload Files
Yes
Upload Photos
No
Upload Performace Data
No
Applicable HH
Imperative
Applicable CHP
Imperative
Applicable SA
Imperative
Applicable CC
Not applicable
Applicable R
Not applicable
Applicable A
Not applicable
Criterion Title EN
The housekeeping service knows and implements the procedures regarding change of towels and sheets.
Expl. Relevance EN
Reducing the frequency of towel and sheet changes helps decrease water, energy, and detergent use. Housekeeping staff understand and correctly apply the procedures that allow guests to reuse towels and sheets, thereby reducing the establishment’s environmental footprint.
Expl. Expectations EN
In addition to the establishment offering guests the option to reuse towels and sheets (see criterion 6.21), the housekeeping staff are informed of and implement the related procedures.
The establishment provides housekeeping staff with clear and accessible instructions and guidance on towel and sheet reuse procedures.
If the housekeeping service is outsourced, the establishment ensures that training on towel and sheet reuse procedures is included in the agreement with the contracted housekeeping company.
Annual sustainability training is provided to the staff.
Criterion Code alt
1.21
Criterion Category
Criterion Subcategory
Imperative for
Guideline for
-
Expl. Συνάφεια
Providing role-specific and relevant training on environmental and sustainability topics ensures that staff contribute effectively to the implementation of the establishment’s sustainability strategy and daily operations.
Expl. Προσδοκίες εφαρμογής
Hotels and Hostels (HH) and Campsites and Holiday Parks (CHP), provide 1 general sustainability training per year for permanent staff and at least 1 departmental or role-specific (e.g. housekeeping, kitchen etc.) sustainability training per year.
Small Accommodations (SA), Restaurants/Cafés (R), Attractions (A), Conference Centres (CC), and seasonal establishments provide at least 1 sustainability training per year for staff.
Suggested training topics include:
- waste sorting and reduction (including hazardous waste);
- sustainable Food & Beverage (F&B) practices;
- eco-friendly cleaning and use of chemicals;
- circular economy principles (reduce, reuse, recycle);
- climate change;
- biodiversity preservation;
- community engagement;
- guest awareness and communication; and/or
- human rights, equality, and non-discrimination.
Annual sustainability training demonstrates progressive development, ensuring that staff expand or deepen their knowledge each year rather than receiving identical training content.
Training takes place on-site or online (e.g. written modules, e-learning) and is delivered internally or externally. New staff members normally receive training within the first 4 weeks of employment. It is strongly encouraged that outsourced and seasonal staff participate in the same training.
Green Key provides a standard reporting format for the training plan, which establishments may adapt to local operational needs.
Expl. Τεκμηρίωση ελέγχου
During the audit, the establishment presents a document detailing:
- which training topics were covered;
- which departments received training (specifying the role of specific staff members, if the training is not provided to the full department);
- the date(s) of provision and training duration (one day, monthly etc.); and
- the format of training (internal/external, online, etc.).
In specific circumstances, for first-time applicants, the establishment presents a written draft of the training plan and commits to follow it within the first certification period (24 months).
During the visual inspection, the auditor conducts at least 1 interview with a selected permanent staff member present during the audit to verify their participation in and understanding of the training sessions during the general and the departmental/role-specific training.
Criterion Code
121
Upload Files
Yes
Upload Photos
No
Upload Performace Data
No
Applicable HH
Imperative
Applicable CHP
Imperative
Applicable SA
Imperative
Applicable CC
Imperative
Applicable R
Imperative
Applicable A
Imperative
Criterion Title EN
Annual sustainability training is provided to the staff.
Expl. Relevance EN
Providing role-specific and relevant training on environmental and sustainability topics ensures that staff contribute effectively to the implementation of the establishment’s sustainability strategy and daily operations.
Expl. Expectations EN
Hotels and Hostels (HH) and Campsites and Holiday Parks (CHP), provide 1 general sustainability training per year for permanent staff and at least 1 departmental or role-specific (e.g. housekeeping, kitchen etc.) sustainability training per year.
Small Accommodations (SA), Restaurants/Cafés (R), Attractions (A), Conference Centres (CC), and seasonal establishments provide at least 1 sustainability training per year for staff.
Suggested training topics include:
- waste sorting and reduction (including hazardous waste);
- sustainable Food & Beverage (F&B) practices;
- eco-friendly cleaning and use of chemicals;
- circular economy principles (reduce, reuse, recycle);
- climate change;
- biodiversity preservation;
- community engagement;
- guest awareness and communication; and/or
- human rights, equality, and non-discrimination.
Annual sustainability training demonstrates progressive development, ensuring that staff expand or deepen their knowledge each year rather than receiving identical training content.
Training takes place on-site or online (e.g. written modules, e-learning) and is delivered internally or externally. New staff members normally receive training within the first 4 weeks of employment. It is strongly encouraged that outsourced and seasonal staff participate in the same training.
Green Key provides a standard reporting format for the training plan, which establishments may adapt to local operational needs.
Expl. Audit Evidence EN
During the audit, the establishment presents a document detailing:
- which training topics were covered;
- which departments received training (specifying the role of specific staff members, if the training is not provided to the full department);
- the date(s) of provision and training duration (one day, monthly etc.); and
- the format of training (internal/external, online, etc.).
In specific circumstances, for first-time applicants, the establishment presents a written draft of the training plan and commits to follow it within the first certification period (24 months).
During the visual inspection, the auditor conducts at least 1 interview with a selected permanent staff member present during the audit to verify their participation in and understanding of the training sessions during the general and the departmental/role-specific training.
The management briefs the staff at least 2 times per year on the establishment’s sustainability initiatives.
Criterion Code alt
1.20
Criterion Category
Criterion Subcategory
Imperative for
Guideline for
-
Expl. Συνάφεια
Regular communication and engagement with staff is essential, as it enables them to understand their role in sustainability, respond confidently to guest enquiries, and contribute meaningfully to environmental and social initiatives.
Expl. Προσδοκίες εφαρμογής
The management, the Green Key Establishment Representative and/or the Green Committee ensure a consistent flow of information and actively engage staff in sustainability efforts. Staff receive updates on both ongoing and new sustainability initiatives to help them understand their role and the impact of their actions. The briefing is delivered either in person (e.g. through staff meetings), in writing or via e-learning.
The topics typically include environmental management areas such as water, energy, waste, cleaning practices, Food & Beverages (F&B) and circular economy principles (reduce, reuse, recycle), as well as other sustainability issues such as local biodiversity and community engagement. Information about the Green Key programme is also communicated.
The management briefs staff at least 2 times per year. Consideration is given to including seasonal staff to ensure wide participation. This criterion applies to both internal and outsourced staff working on-site.
Establishments that are seasonal and/or have 5 or fewer staff members brief the staff at least 1 time per year.
For first-time applicants, at least 1 briefing has taken place prior to the audit.
Expl. Τεκμηρίωση ελέγχου
During the audit, the establishment presents written evidence (e.g. documents, or presentations, or screenshots/exports from digital platforms) outlining:
- which topics were covered;
- participating department(s) (e.g. housekeeping department); and
- the date of provision.
During the visual inspection, the auditor conducts at least 1 random interview with staff to validate their awareness of sustainability initiatives and confirm that regular communication has occurred.
In specific circumstances, for establishments with fewer than 5 staff members, the information about sustainability initiatives can be provided orally. In this case, no documentation is required, and staff knowledge is still validated through interviews.
Criterion Code
120
Upload Files
No
Upload Photos
No
Upload Performace Data
No
Applicable HH
Imperative
Applicable CHP
Imperative
Applicable SA
Imperative
Applicable CC
Imperative
Applicable R
Imperative
Applicable A
Imperative
Criterion Title EN
The management briefs the staff at least 2 times per year on the establishment’s sustainability initiatives.
Expl. Relevance EN
Regular communication and engagement with staff is essential, as it enables them to understand their role in sustainability, respond confidently to guest enquiries, and contribute meaningfully to environmental and social initiatives.
Expl. Expectations EN
The management, the Green Key Establishment Representative and/or the Green Committee ensure a consistent flow of information and actively engage staff in sustainability efforts. Staff receive updates on both ongoing and new sustainability initiatives to help them understand their role and the impact of their actions. The briefing is delivered either in person (e.g. through staff meetings), in writing or via e-learning.
The topics typically include environmental management areas such as water, energy, waste, cleaning practices, Food & Beverages (F&B) and circular economy principles (reduce, reuse, recycle), as well as other sustainability issues such as local biodiversity and community engagement. Information about the Green Key programme is also communicated.
The management briefs staff at least 2 times per year. Consideration is given to including seasonal staff to ensure wide participation. This criterion applies to both internal and outsourced staff working on-site.
Establishments that are seasonal and/or have 5 or fewer staff members brief the staff at least 1 time per year.
For first-time applicants, at least 1 briefing has taken place prior to the audit.
Expl. Audit Evidence EN
During the audit, the establishment presents written evidence (e.g. documents, or presentations, or screenshots/exports from digital platforms) outlining:
- which topics were covered;
- participating department(s) (e.g. housekeeping department); and
- the date of provision.
During the visual inspection, the auditor conducts at least 1 random interview with staff to validate their awareness of sustainability initiatives and confirm that regular communication has occurred.
In specific circumstances, for establishments with fewer than 5 staff members, the information about sustainability initiatives can be provided orally. In this case, no documentation is required, and staff knowledge is still validated through interviews.