Χρησιμοποιούνται μόνο προϊόντα χωρίς άρωμα και χωρίς αρωματικές ουσίες για πλύσιμο, καθαρισμό ή φροντίδα δωματίων.
Τα προϊόντα που περιέχουν αρώματα συμβάλλουν στην εσωτερική ατμοσφαιρική ρύπανση, αυξάνουν τον κίνδυνο αλλεργικών αντιδράσεων, και εισάγουν περιττές χημικές ενώσεις στο περιβάλλον. Με τη χρήση προϊόντων χωρίς άρωμα και χωρίς αρωματικές ουσίες σε πρακτικές τακτικού καθαρισμού και πλυσίματος, οι εγκαταστάσεις προστατεύουν την υγεία των επισκεπτών και του προσωπικού, μειώνουν το χημικό τους αποτύπωμα και υποστηρίζουν ένα ασφαλέστερο εσωτερικό περιβάλλον.
Η εγκατάσταση δεν χρησιμοποιεί κανένα προϊόν πλύσης, καθαρισμού ή φροντίδας δωματίων που περιέχει άρωμα ή αρωματικές ουσίες, συμπεριλαμβανομένων ψεκαστήρων, απορρυπαντικών και καθαριστικών επιφανειών.
Το κριτήριο αυτό εφαρμόζεται σε όλους τους χώρους της εγκατάστασης (συμπεριλαμβανομένων των δωματίων επισκεπτών, των χώρων πλυντηρίου, των κοινοχρήστων χώρων και των αιθουσών συνεδριάσεων), ανεξάρτητα από το εάν το προσωπικό της εγκατάστασης εκτελεί το πλύσιμο και τον καθαρισμό, ή αν η εργασία έχει ανατεθεί σε εξωτερικό συνεργάτη.
Κατά την επιτόπια επιθεώρηση, ο επιθεωρητής επιλέγει τυχαίο δείγμα 3 προϊόντων που χρησιμοποιούνται για πλύσιμο, καθαρισμό και φροντίδα δωματίων και επιβεβαιώνει επί τόπου ότι δεν αναγράφεται άρωμα ή αρωματική ουσία στα επιλεγμένα προϊόντα (μεθοδολογία Γ).
Σε ειδικές περιπτώσεις όπου το πλύσιμο και ο καθαρισμός έχουν ανατεθεί σε εξωτερικό συνεργάτη, η εγκατάσταση παρουσιάζει δήλωση του συνεργάτη, που επιβεβαιώνει ότι τα χρησιμοποιούμενα προϊόντα πλύσης/καθαρισμού δεν περιέχουν άρωμα ή αρωματικές ουσίες.
Fragrance-containing products contribute to indoor air pollution, increase the risk of allergic reactions and introduce unnecessary chemical compounds into the environment. By using fragrance- and perfume products-free products in routine cleaning and washing practices, establishments protect guest and staff health, reduce their chemical footprint and support a safer indoor atmosphere.
The establishment does not use any washing, cleaning, or room care products that contain fragrance or perfume, including sprays, detergents and surface cleaners.
This criterion applies to all areas of the establishment (including guest rooms, laundry rooms, public areas and conference rooms), both if the staff of the establishment oversees the washing and cleaning and if the work is outsourced to a third-party contractor.
During the visual inspection, the auditor selects a random sample of 3 products used for washing, cleaning and room care and confirms on-site that no fragrance or perfume is indicated on the products selected (methodology C).
In specific circumstances, where the washing and cleaning is outsourced, the establishment presents a statement from the third-party entity confirming that the washing/cleaning products used do not contain fragrance or perfume.
The establishment formulates strategic sustainability targets.
Formulating strategic sustainability targets provides a strong and goal-oriented framework for the establishment’s sustainability work. It ensures alignment, continuous improvement, and the integration of sustainability into core operations.
The management and staff of the establishment (e.g. under supervision of the Green Key Establishment Representative) formulates strategic sustainability targets that are more ambitious than compliance with legislation and serve as commitment to continuous improvement, tracking progress/monitoring and guiding decision-making. The targets focus on long-term direction rather than specific actions or how to handle them (this is covered in criterion 1.3).
Strategic sustainability targets specify a timeline for review, are formulated up to maximum 6 years into the future and are assessed every certification period (every 2 years) to ensure continued relevance and ambition. The targets are directly linked to the annual action plan (criterion 1.3) and are used to evaluate the success of the action plan and the establishment’s overall sustainability performance.
For establishments with more than 50 employees, a minimum of 4 strategic targets, and for establishments with less than 50 employees, a minimum of 2 strategic targets are formulated. Establishments may choose which areas to focus on, provided that the targets cover at least 2 different areas, for example energy, water, waste, social sustainability/CSR (e.g. staff equity, inclusion, community engagement etc.), biodiversity protection, sustainable procurement, risk and crisis management, etc.
The targets are grounded in actual performance data or assessments from a clearly defined baseline period and directly respond to identified issues, risks, or areas for improvement. Examples of underlying data include energy, water, waste or carbon data; water risk or biodiversity assessments; or guest and staff feedback on CSR performance (e.g. from criteria 3.1, 4.1, 5.6, 7.12). Where available, it is encouraged that regional benchmarks are taken into account to ensure relevance and ambition.
First-time applicants who may not yet have complete annual data should base their targets on the most accurate and representative data available (for example, based on the minimum 3 months of data that must be submitted for other criteria).
Examples for strategic targets include:
- reducing greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by at least 20% by 20XX compared to baseline year 20XX, equivalent to approximately a 5% annual reduction in line with the Paris Agreement;
- restoring at least 20% of the premises (by area) to natural or semi-natural habitat by 20XX (for further examples, see criterion 7.11), or any other biodiversity targets, for example following the Nature Positive Tourism approach of protecting local or international biodiversity;
- reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling by 15% by 20XX, compared to baseline year 20XX;
- eliminating all single-use plastic items by the end of 20XX;
- reducing total water consumption per guest night by 10% by 20XX, compared to baseline year 20XX performance data;
- achieving gender balance in management positions (at least 40% women) by 20XX;
- conducting annual anti-harassment and safeguarding training for all staff, with special focus on protecting children, women and vulnerable groups;
- contributing at least 1% of annual profits or revenue to local community projects or partnerships; and/or
- adopting a local hiring target: ensure at least 60% of permanent staff are residents of the local area.
Strategic sustainability targets are co-developed by management and staff, ensuring that both groups contribute to the identification and prioritisation of sustainability ambitions. Management is responsible for the accuracy of targets, their implementation, and follow-up. If a target is not met, a critical reflection of the reasons for lack of fulfilment is provided and if justified, the establishment may continue working on the same target in the next period. Targets are communicated to staff (e.g. during onboarding) and may be made accessible to guests, where appropriate (e.g. website, lobby, in-room materials). To strengthen local relevance, it is recommended that they are co-created with other relevant stakeholders such as community members.
When preparing the strategic sustainability targets, the Green Key criteria can serve as inspiration. It is recommended that the establishment also formulates a sustainability vision and mission statement. Targets should support and be consistent with this long-term direction.
If the establishment is part of a chain, collective chain-level strategic targets may serve as inspiration, provided that these are translated into specific individual/local targets. If adopted without modification, the establishment justifies their relevance (e.g. timeframe, focus, percentage goals). Chain-wide documents can be accepted as evidence if the establishment demonstrates that the actions are implemented at their property and appropriate for their structural, geographical and cultural context.
During the audit, the establishment presents its written, dated strategic sustainability targets. It is verified that they:
- have been communicated internally and are available to staff;
- cover at least 2 of the different areas listed above;
- are less than 2 years old; and
- were developed by staff and management. The Green Key Establishment Representative furthermore carries responsibility for accuracy and follow-up.
Formulating strategic sustainability targets provides a strong and goal-oriented framework for the establishment’s sustainability work. It ensures alignment, continuous improvement, and the integration of sustainability into core operations.
The management and staff of the establishment (e.g. under supervision of the Green Key Establishment Representative) formulates strategic sustainability targets that are more ambitious than compliance with legislation and serve as commitment to continuous improvement, tracking progress/monitoring and guiding decision-making. The targets focus on long-term direction rather than specific actions or how to handle them (this is covered in criterion 1.3).
Strategic sustainability targets specify a timeline for review, are formulated up to maximum 6 years into the future and are assessed every certification period (every 2 years) to ensure continued relevance and ambition. The targets are directly linked to the annual action plan (criterion 1.3) and are used to evaluate the success of the action plan and the establishment’s overall sustainability performance.
For establishments with more than 50 employees, a minimum of 4 strategic targets, and for establishments with less than 50 employees, a minimum of 2 strategic targets are formulated. Establishments may choose which areas to focus on, provided that the targets cover at least 2 different areas, for example energy, water, waste, social sustainability/CSR (e.g. staff equity, inclusion, community engagement etc.), biodiversity protection, sustainable procurement, risk and crisis management, etc.
The targets are grounded in actual performance data or assessments from a clearly defined baseline period and directly respond to identified issues, risks, or areas for improvement. Examples of underlying data include energy, water, waste or carbon data; water risk or biodiversity assessments; or guest and staff feedback on CSR performance (e.g. from criteria 3.1, 4.1, 5.6, 7.12). Where available, it is encouraged that regional benchmarks are taken into account to ensure relevance and ambition.
First-time applicants who may not yet have complete annual data should base their targets on the most accurate and representative data available (for example, based on the minimum 3 months of data that must be submitted for other criteria).
Examples for strategic targets include:
- reducing greenhouse gas emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by at least 20% by 20XX compared to baseline year 20XX, equivalent to approximately a 5% annual reduction in line with the Paris Agreement;
- restoring at least 20% of the premises (by area) to natural or semi-natural habitat by 20XX (for further examples, see criterion 7.11), or any other biodiversity targets, for example following the Nature Positive Tourism approach of protecting local or international biodiversity;
- reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling by 15% by 20XX, compared to baseline year 20XX;
- eliminating all single-use plastic items by the end of 20XX;
- reducing total water consumption per guest night by 10% by 20XX, compared to baseline year 20XX performance data;
- achieving gender balance in management positions (at least 40% women) by 20XX;
- conducting annual anti-harassment and safeguarding training for all staff, with special focus on protecting children, women and vulnerable groups;
- contributing at least 1% of annual profits or revenue to local community projects or partnerships; and/or
- adopting a local hiring target: ensure at least 60% of permanent staff are residents of the local area.
Strategic sustainability targets are co-developed by management and staff, ensuring that both groups contribute to the identification and prioritisation of sustainability ambitions. Management is responsible for the accuracy of targets, their implementation, and follow-up. If a target is not met, a critical reflection of the reasons for lack of fulfilment is provided and if justified, the establishment may continue working on the same target in the next period. Targets are communicated to staff (e.g. during onboarding) and may be made accessible to guests, where appropriate (e.g. website, lobby, in-room materials). To strengthen local relevance, it is recommended that they are co-created with other relevant stakeholders such as community members.
When preparing the strategic sustainability targets, the Green Key criteria can serve as inspiration. It is recommended that the establishment also formulates a sustainability vision and mission statement. Targets should support and be consistent with this long-term direction.
If the establishment is part of a chain, collective chain-level strategic targets may serve as inspiration, provided that these are translated into specific individual/local targets. If adopted without modification, the establishment justifies their relevance (e.g. timeframe, focus, percentage goals). Chain-wide documents can be accepted as evidence if the establishment demonstrates that the actions are implemented at their property and appropriate for their structural, geographical and cultural context.
During the audit, the establishment presents its written, dated strategic sustainability targets. It is verified that they:
- have been communicated internally and are available to staff;
- cover at least 2 of the different areas listed above;
- are less than 2 years old; and
- were developed by staff and management. The Green Key Establishment Representative furthermore carries responsibility for accuracy and follow-up.
The establishment provides access for people with additional accessibility needs by focusing on minimum 2 defined accessibility categories and implementing the required minimum measures for those categories.
Providing inclusive access for people with additional accessibility needs helps remove physical, sensory and cognitive barriers, enabling all guests to participate fully and independently in services and experiences. This supports social sustainability and aligns with international human rights principles.
The establishment provides access for people with additional accessibility needs. Recognising that establishments may not be able to cover all types of disabilities, the establishment focuses its accessibility improvements on minimum 2 specific category of need: physical mobility, visual impairment or cognitive/hearing impairment.
To reach conformity, the following minimum accessibility elements are in place when focusing on physical accessibility:
- at least 1 accessible entrance with ramp or level access (meeting slope and width standards);
- at least 1 accessible toilet in public/common areas;
- at least 1 accessible guest room including bathroom (if accommodation is provided);
- accessible restaurant seating or common dining area; and
- 1 accessible meeting/conference room, if applicable.
It is furthermore recommended that resting points (e.g. benches) are provided for guests with limited mobility throughout longer walking areas. The slope and width of entrances, signage, and handrail availability are verified in accordance with national accessibility guidelines or, where available, UN/WHO accessibility recommendations.
To reach conformity, the following minimum accessibility elements are in place when focusing on visual accessibility:
- high-contrast signage and/or tactile floor markers and/or adequate lighting and glare reduction in key areas (e.g. entrance, reception, toilets, corridors) according to visual impairment needs;
- at least 1 accessible toilet in public/common areas;
- at least 1 accessible guest room including bathroom (if accommodation is provided);
- accessible restaurant seating; reception or service desk, and either auditory cues or verbal guidance or braille/large-print menus/information guides; and
- 1 accessible meeting/conference room, if applicable.
For cognitive disabilities or hearing impairment, the following minimum accessibility elements are in place to reach conformity:
- an accessibility plan outlining how cognitive or sensory needs (hearing impairments) are addressed; and
- at least 2 implemented tangible actions focusing on either cognitive disabilities and/or hearing impairments:
- examples of actions focusing on cognitive accessibility include simplified and pictogram-based instructions in key areas (reception, dining, safety information); quiet check-in or queue-free service for guests who need it; staff training focusing on the sensibilisation of needs for people with cognitive disabilities; availability of sensory-friendly maps or simple orientation guides; predictable routines for activities communicated clearly to guests.
- examples of actions for hearing impairments include availability of portable hearing loops at reception or meeting rooms; captioned videos and visual alarms in key areas (if feasible); staff training focusing on the sensibilisation of needs for people with hearing impairments (e.g. trained in international sign language).
For the actions to be approved, the improvements are substantial, functional and clearly documented in the accessibility plan. The establishment also informs about the minimum accessibility elements in place on their website.
Even if pets are generally not allowed in the establishment, service animals (e.g. guide dogs) are always permitted. This aspect is respected by all staff. The level of access is clearly and accurately communicated on the establishment’s website. Descriptions specify accessible facilities (e.g. room layout, grab bars, step-free access, high-contras signage, visual alarms, etc.) and whether the establishment complies with specific standards (e.g. local building codes or accessibility certifications).
Where applicable, the establishment is encouraged to consult with or seek approval from national or local disability organisations when planning accessibility features. During the onboarding, all staff are trained and informed about the establishment’s accessibility provisions, regulations and the rights of guests with disabilities. Management and other relevant guest-facing staff receive additional follow-up training regarding the available equipment in the establishment.
During the audit, the establishment presents evidence of:
- relevant staff awareness and training on accessibility procedures; and
- availability of information about accessibility on the website.
In specific circumstances, where the establishment provides access for people with cognitive disabilities needs or hearing impairments, an accessibility plan outlining how these needs are addressed is presented.
During the visual inspection, the auditor confirms the presence and condition of accessible infrastructure (at minimum of the listed areas above). For this purpose, the auditor conducts samplings in at least 1 public restroom, 1 common area/entrance, 1 restaurant, and 1 meeting room, and in guest rooms following methodology A as described in the glossary.
Providing inclusive access for people with additional accessibility needs helps remove physical, sensory and cognitive barriers, enabling all guests to participate fully and independently in services and experiences. This supports social sustainability and aligns with international human rights principles.
The establishment provides access for people with additional accessibility needs. Recognising that establishments may not be able to cover all types of disabilities, the establishment focuses its accessibility improvements on minimum 2 specific category of need: physical mobility, visual impairment or cognitive/hearing impairment.
To reach conformity, the following minimum accessibility elements are in place when focusing on physical accessibility:
- at least 1 accessible entrance with ramp or level access (meeting slope and width standards);
- at least 1 accessible toilet in public/common areas;
- at least 1 accessible guest room including bathroom (if accommodation is provided);
- accessible restaurant seating or common dining area; and
- 1 accessible meeting/conference room, if applicable.
It is furthermore recommended that resting points (e.g. benches) are provided for guests with limited mobility throughout longer walking areas. The slope and width of entrances, signage, and handrail availability are verified in accordance with national accessibility guidelines or, where available, UN/WHO accessibility recommendations.
To reach conformity, the following minimum accessibility elements are in place when focusing on visual accessibility:
- high-contrast signage and/or tactile floor markers and/or adequate lighting and glare reduction in key areas (e.g. entrance, reception, toilets, corridors) according to visual impairment needs;
- at least 1 accessible toilet in public/common areas;
- at least 1 accessible guest room including bathroom (if accommodation is provided);
- accessible restaurant seating; reception or service desk, and either auditory cues or verbal guidance or braille/large-print menus/information guides; and
- 1 accessible meeting/conference room, if applicable.
For cognitive disabilities or hearing impairment, the following minimum accessibility elements are in place to reach conformity:
- an accessibility plan outlining how cognitive or sensory needs (hearing impairments) are addressed; and
- at least 2 implemented tangible actions focusing on either cognitive disabilities and/or hearing impairments:
- examples of actions focusing on cognitive accessibility include simplified and pictogram-based instructions in key areas (reception, dining, safety information); quiet check-in or queue-free service for guests who need it; staff training focusing on the sensibilisation of needs for people with cognitive disabilities; availability of sensory-friendly maps or simple orientation guides; predictable routines for activities communicated clearly to guests.
- examples of actions for hearing impairments include availability of portable hearing loops at reception or meeting rooms; captioned videos and visual alarms in key areas (if feasible); staff training focusing on the sensibilisation of needs for people with hearing impairments (e.g. trained in international sign language).
For the actions to be approved, the improvements are substantial, functional and clearly documented in the accessibility plan. The establishment also informs about the minimum accessibility elements in place on their website.
Even if pets are generally not allowed in the establishment, service animals (e.g. guide dogs) are always permitted. This aspect is respected by all staff. The level of access is clearly and accurately communicated on the establishment’s website. Descriptions specify accessible facilities (e.g. room layout, grab bars, step-free access, high-contras signage, visual alarms, etc.) and whether the establishment complies with specific standards (e.g. local building codes or accessibility certifications).
Where applicable, the establishment is encouraged to consult with or seek approval from national or local disability organisations when planning accessibility features. During the onboarding, all staff are trained and informed about the establishment’s accessibility provisions, regulations and the rights of guests with disabilities. Management and other relevant guest-facing staff receive additional follow-up training regarding the available equipment in the establishment.
During the audit, the establishment presents evidence of:
- relevant staff awareness and training on accessibility procedures; and
- availability of information about accessibility on the website.
In specific circumstances, where the establishment provides access for people with cognitive disabilities needs or hearing impairments, an accessibility plan outlining how these needs are addressed is presented.
During the visual inspection, the auditor confirms the presence and condition of accessible infrastructure (at minimum of the listed areas above). For this purpose, the auditor conducts samplings in at least 1 public restroom, 1 common area/entrance, 1 restaurant, and 1 meeting room, and in guest rooms following methodology A as described in the glossary.
Η εγκατάσταση προσφέρει ή διευκολύνει την πρόσβαση σε ενοικίαση μη μηχανοκίνητων μέσων μεταφοράς για τους επισκέπτες.
Η προώθηση ή παροχή πρόσβασης σε ποδήλατα ή/και άλλες μορφές μη μηχανοκίνητης μετακίνησης (π.χ. κανό, έλκηθρα χωρίς μηχανή, χιονοπέδιλα ή σκι αντοχής) μειώνει τις εκπομπές αερίων του θερμοκηπίου, υποστηρίζει τη βιώσιμη κινητικότητα και προάγει την υγεία και ευεξία των επισκεπτών. Η παροχή ή η διευκόλυνση πρόσβασης σε ποδήλατα επιτρέπει μετακινήσεις χαμηλού περιβαλλοντικού αποτυπώματος εντός του προορισμού και συμβάλλει σε πιο φιλικές προς το περιβάλλον εμπειρίες διαμονής των επισκεπτών.
Η εγκατάσταση προσφέρει ή διευκολύνει την πρόσβαση σε μη μηχανοκίνητα μέσα μεταφοράς για τους επισκέπτες. Αυτό περιλαμβάνει είτε:
α) την παροχή δυνατότητας δανεισμού ή ενοικίασης ποδηλάτων ή άλλων μορφών μη μηχανοκίνητης μετακίνησης (π.χ. κανό, έλκηθρα χωρίς μηχανή, χιονοπέδιλα, σκι αντοχής) απευθείας από την εγκατάσταση·
β) την παραπομπή των επισκεπτών σε αξιόπιστη εξωτερική υπηρεσία ενοικίασης, όταν η άμεση παροχή δεν είναι εφικτή.
Τα ηλεκτρικά ποδήλατα και τα ηλεκτρικά πατίνια δεν πληρούν το παρόν κριτήριο (βλ. κριτήριο 2.5).
Οι πληροφορίες σχετικά με τα διαθέσιμα μη μηχανοκίνητα μέσα μεταφοράς είναι προσβάσιμες στους επισκέπτες σε σημεία όπως η ρεσεψιόν, το γραφείο εξυπηρέτησης των επισκεπτών, η περιβαλλοντική γωνιά, τηλεοπτικές οθόνες, ή μέσω εφαρμογών, κωδικών QR ή σε φακέλους εντός των δωματίων των επισκεπτών/αιθουσών συναντήσεων.
Σημείωση για εθνική προσαρμογή: Στο Βέλγιο, το κριτήριο αυτό είναι υποχρεωτικό.
Κατά την επιθεώρηση, ο επιθεωρητής επιβεβαιώνει τουλάχιστον ένα από τα ακόλουθα:
α) τη διαθεσιμότητα μη μηχανοκίνητων μέσων μεταφοράς και την προώθηση της υπηρεσίας αυτής·
β) την ύπαρξη σαφώς διατυπωμένων πληροφοριών που παραπέμπουν τους επισκέπτες σε εξωτερικές υπηρεσίες ενοικίασης.
Promoting or offering access to bicycles and/or other forms of non-motorised transportation (e.g. canoes, kick sleds, snowshoes, or cross-country skis) reduces greenhouse gas emissions, supports sustainable mobility, and promotes guests’ health and well-being. Providing or facilitating access to bicycles enables low-impact travel within the destination and contributes to more environmentally friendly guest experiences.
The establishment offers or facilitates access to non-motorised transportation for guests. This includes either:
- offering the possibility of borrowing or renting bicycles or other forms of non-motorised transportation (e.g. canoes, kick sleds, snowshoes, cross-country skis) directly at the establishment; or
- referring guests to a reliable external rental service, where direct provision is not feasible.
Electrical bicycles and electric scooters do not fulfil this criterion (see criterion 2.5).
Information about available non-motorised transportation is accessible to guests in areas such as the reception desk, concierge desk, environmental corner, TV monitors, via guest apps, QR codes or in binders in the guest/meeting rooms. Note on national adaptation: In BE, this criterion is imperative.
Η κατανάλωση ενέργειας ανά πηγή καταγράφεται τουλάχιστον μία φορά τον μήνα.
Η παρακολούθηση της κατανάλωσης ενέργειας ανά πηγή συμβάλλει στη διαχείριση και μείωση των περιβαλλοντικών επιπτώσεων και του ενεργειακού κόστους, ενώ επιτρέπει τον έγκαιρο εντοπισμό αναποτελεσματικοτήτων, υποστηρίζει τη λήψη αποφάσεων βάσει δεδομένων και ευθυγραμμίζεται με καλές πρακτικές στις αναφορές βιωσιμότητας.
Η εγκατάσταση παρακολουθεί, καταγράφει και κατανοεί τη χρήση της ενέργειάς της. Η κατανάλωση ενέργειας καταγράφεται τουλάχιστον μία φορά τον μήνα ανά πηγή ενέργειας (π.χ. ηλεκτρική ενέργεια, φυσικό αέριο, τηλεθέρμανση, καύσιμα, ανανεώσιμες πηγές ενέργειας). Οι μετρήσεις πραγματοποιούνται συστηματικά και αποθηκεύονται σε ιχνηλάσιμη μορφή. Οι φωτογραφίες ή στιγμιότυπα οθόνης δεν αποτελούν αποδεκτή μορφή τεκμηρίωσης, και μπορεί να ζητηθεί συγκεκριμένο αρχείο για την παροχή δεδομένων, όπως αναφέρεται στο Γλωσσάρι. Η μεθοδολογία συλλογής δεδομένων τεκμηριώνεται (π.χ. δεδομένα από λογαριασμούς κοινής ωφέλειας, συστήματα διαχείρισης κτιρίων, υπομετρητές ή χειροκίνητες καταγραφές).
Όπου τα μηνιαία δεδομένα δεν είναι άμεσα διαθέσιμα (π.χ. λόγω δομικών περιορισμών, περιορισμών παρόχων κοινής ωφέλειας, τοποθεσιών χωρίς υποδομή μέτρησης ή κτιρίων κοινής χρήσης), η εγκατάσταση παρέχει την ακριβέστερη δυνατή εκτίμηση της μηνιαίας κατανάλωσης ενέργειας. Αποδεκτές μεθοδολογίες περιλαμβάνουν κατανομή βάσει επιφάνειας, πληρότητας ή καθορισμένων δεικτών αναφοράς. Σε τέτοιες περιπτώσεις, συνιστάται η τοποθέτηση ξεχωριστών ενεργειακών μετρητών για τη βελτίωση της ακρίβειας των δεδομένων με την πάροδο του χρόνου.
Τα δεδομένα παρακολούθησης ενέργειας που συλλέγονται στο πλαίσιο του παρόντος κριτηρίου μπορούν να χρησιμοποιηθούν ως βασικά δεδομένα αναφοράς για τη στήριξη των στόχων βιωσιμότητας της εγκατάστασης στο πλαίσιο των κριτηρίων 1.2 και 1.3.
Σε περίπτωση σημαντικών αλλαγών ή αυξημένης κατανάλωσης ενέργειας, η εγκατάσταση διερευνά άμεσα την αιτία και εφαρμόζει διορθωτικά μέτρα.
Όπου έχουν εγκατασταθεί ξεχωριστοί μετρητές ενέργειας σε διαφορετικές περιοχές του κτιρίου, συνιστάται η ανάλυση των μετρήσεων για την ολοκληρωμένη κατανόηση των σχετικών δράσεων και στόχων που πρέπει να τεθούν στο πλαίσιο των κριτηρίων 1.2 και 1.3.
Κατά την επιθεώρηση, η εγκατάσταση παρουσιάζει:
• τις μηνιαίες καταγραφές κατανάλωσης ενέργειας για τα τελευταία 2 πλήρη ημερολογιακά έτη για κάθε χρησιμοποιούμενη πηγή ενέργειας (οι νέοι αιτούντες και οι νέες εγκαταστάσεις υποβάλλουν δεδομένα του τελευταίου πλήρους έτους ή τουλάχιστον 3 μηνών εάν δεν υπάρχουν προγενέστερα δεδομένα)· και
• τεκμηρίωση που υποστηρίζει τη μεθοδολογία συλλογής δεδομένων (π.χ. αποσπάσματα λογαριασμών κοινής ωφέλειας, έξοδοι BMS, χειρόγραφες καταγραφές). Εάν δεν υπάρχει αρχείο δεδομένων, ο υποψήφιος υποβάλλει φωτογραφίες των μετρητών που δείχνουν την κατανάλωση.
Σε ειδικές περιπτώσεις, η εγκατάσταση παρουσιάζει τα εκτιμώμενα δεδομένα και τη μεθοδολογία εκτίμησης, όπου τα μηνιαία δεδομένα δεν είναι διαθέσιμα.
Κατά την οπτική επιτόπια επιθεώρηση, ο επιθεωρητής πραγματοποιεί δειγματοληπτικό έλεγχο της υποστηρικτικής τεκμηρίωσης εξετάζοντας δείγμα 3 στοιχείων (π.χ. δεδομένα από λογαριασμούς κοινής ωφέλειας, απόδοση Συστήματος Διαχείρισης Κτιρίου, ενδείξεις υπομετρητών ή χειρόγραφες καταγραφές) από 3 διαφορετικούς μήνες εντός της περιόδου αναφοράς (μεθοδολογία Γ). Εάν περιλαμβάνονται πολλαπλές πηγές ενέργειας, έτη, τοποθεσίες ή συστήματα, το δείγμα επιλέγεται ώστε να αντικατοπτρίζει αυτή τη διαφοροποίηση.
Tracking energy use by source helps manage and reduce environmental impacts and energy costs, while enabling early detection of inefficiencies, supporting data-driven decisions, and aligning with good practices in sustainability reporting.
The establishment monitors, records and understands its energy use. Energy consumption is recorded at least once a month by energy source (e.g. electricity, gas, district heating, fuel, renewable energy sources). Readings are taken systematically and stored in a traceable format. Photos or screenshots are not an acceptable format, and the Green Key International/National Office may require a specific format to provide the data, as indicated in this document’s introduction. The methodology of data collection is documented (e.g. data from utility bills, building management systems, sub-metres or manual readings).
Where monthly data are not directly available (e.g. due to structural constraints, utility limitations, locations without metering infrastructure or shared-use buildings), the establishment provides the most precise estimation possible of its monthly energy consumption. Acceptable methodologies include allocation by floor area, occupancy, or defined benchmarks. In such cases, it is strongly recommended that the establishment installs separate energy metres to improve data accuracy over time.
The energy tracking data collected under this criterion can serve as baseline data to support the establishment’s sustainability targets under criterion 1.2 and criterion 1.3.
Should any major changes or larger energy consumption occur, the establishment immediately investigates the cause and implements corrective actions.
Where separate energy metres are installed across different areas of the building, it is recommended that the establishment analyses these readings to have a comprehensive overview on relevant actions and targets to be set under criteria 1.2 and 1.3.
During the audit, the establishment presents:
- the monthly records of energy consumption from the full last 2 calendar years for each energy source used (first-time applicants and newly opened establishments submit data from the last full calendar year, or a minimum of 3 months of data, if no historical data is available); and
- supporting documentation outlining the methodology of data collection (e.g. utility bill extracts, BMS outputs, manual logs). If a data log is not available, the applicant submits photos of the metres showing consumption.
In specific circumstances, the establishment presents the estimated data and the methodology of estimation, where monthly data are not accessible.
During the visual inspection, the auditor conducts samplings of the supporting documentation by reviewing a sample of 3 items (e.g. data from utility bills, Building Management System outputs, sub-metre readings or manual logs) from 3 different months within the reporting period (methodology C). If multiple energy sources, years, sites or systems are included, the sample is selected to reflect this variation.
Ο πρόσφατα αγορασμένος εξοπλισμός ψύξης, αερισμού, θέρμανσης, και δροσισμού χρησιμοποιεί ψυκτικά υγρά που είναι ελεύθερα από HCFCs ή CFCs.
H σταδιακή κατάργηση των ψυκτικών υγρών που είναι καταστροφικά για το όζον και δημιουργούν μεγάλη υπερθέρμανση του πλανήτη όπως HCFCs και CFCs μειώνει τις εκπομπές αερίων του θερμοκηπίου και υποστηρίζει την συμμόρφωση με τα διεθνή περιβαλλοντικά πρωτόκολλα. Η επιλογή εξοπλισμού που χρησιμοποιεί ασφαλή ψυκτικά υγρά χαμηλών επιπτώσεων, μπορεί να συμβάλλει στη μείωση των περιβαλλοντικών επιπτώσεων που σχετίζονται με τα συστήματα ψύξης.
Κανένας εξοπλισμός ψύξης, αερισμού, θέρμανσης, και δροσισμού, (π.χ. ψυκτικά συγκροτήματα, αντλίες θερμότητας, κλιματιστικά με δυο ξεχωριστές μονάδες, επαγγελματικά/οί ψυγεία/καταψύκτες) αγορασμένα από την εγκατάσταση κατά τους τελευταίους 24 μήνες (για τους υποψηφίους που επανυποβάλουν αίτηση) ή 6 μήνες (για τους αιτούντες για πρώτη φορά) δεν περιλαμβάνει ενώσεις HCFC (υδροχλωροφθοράνθρακες), συμπεριλαμβανομένων ψυκτικών υγρών όπως R-22 και R 123, καθώς αυτά περιέχουν αέρια του θερμοκηπίου και συμβάλλουν στην καταστροφή του όζοντος.
Όταν αγοράζεται μεταχειρισμένος εξοπλισμός δεν πρέπει να περιλαμβάνει CFC ψυκτικά υγρά.
Όλος ο εξοπλισμός τηρεί την εθνική και τοπική νομοθεσία που έχει σχέση με την σταδιακή κατάργηση ψυκτικών υγρών και την περιβαλλοντική ασφάλεια.
Κατά την επιθεώρηση, η εγκατάσταση παρουσιάζει τεκμηρίωση (π.χ. τεχνικά δελτία, καταγραφές αγορών, προδιαγραφές του συστήματος) επιβεβαιώνοντας ότι όλος ο εξοπλισμός ψύξης, θέρμανσης, δροσισμού, και αερισμού αγορασμένος εντός των τελευταίων 24 ή 6 μηνών (ανάλογα με το έτος πιστοποίησης) τηρεί τις απαιτήσεις που απαριθμούνται πιο πάνω.
Phasing out ozone-depleting and high global-warming refrigerants such as HCFCs and CFCs reduces greenhouse gas emissions and supports compliance with international environmental protocols. Selecting equipment that uses safe, low-impact refrigerants contributes to climate protection and sustainable operations.
None of the refrigeration, ventilation, heating, and cooling, equipment (e.g. chillers, heat pumps, split systems, commercial fridges/freezers) purchased during the last 24 months (for re-applicants) or 6 months (for first-time applicants) by the establishment contains HCFC (hydrochlorofluorocarbon) compounds, including transitional refrigerants such as R-22 and R-123, as these are greenhouse gases and contribute to ozone depletion.
When second-hand equipment is purchased, they do not contain CFC refrigerants.
All equipment complies with national and local legislation related to refrigerant phase-outs and environmental safety.
During the audit, the establishment presents documentation (e.g. technical datasheets, purchase records, system specifications) confirming that all refrigeration, heating, cooling, and ventilation equipment purchased within the last 24 months (for re-applicants) or 6 months (for first-time applicants) conform with the requirements listed above.
Δεν χρησιμοποιούνται είδη μίας χρήσης για υπηρεσίες τροφίμων και ποτών εντός της εγκατάστασης.
Τα είδη μίας χρήσης για υπηρεσίες τροφίμων και ποτών απαιτούν σημαντικούς πόρους, συμβάλλουν σημαντικά στην παραγωγή αποβλήτων σε τουριστικές και ξενοδοχειακές εγκαταστάσεις και σπάνια ανακυκλώνονται αποτελεσματικά. Η κατάργησή τους μειώνει τις περιβαλλοντικές επιπτώσεις και προωθεί τη μετάβαση προς πιο βιώσιμα και κυκλικά πρότυπα κατανάλωσης. Η προτεραιότητα στην επαναχρησιμοποίηση αντί της απόρριψης ευθυγραμμίζεται επίσης με ευρύτερες στρατηγικές μείωσης αποβλήτων και δράσεις για το κλίμα.
Η εγκατάσταση δεν χρησιμοποιεί είδη μίας χρήσης για υπηρεσίες τροφίμων και ποτών (περιλαμβάνονται όλα τα αναλώσιμα είδη που χρησιμοποιούνται για εσωτερικές υπηρεσίες εστίασης), όπως ποτήρια, πιάτα, μαχαιροπίρουνα, καλαμάκια, αναδευτήρες καφέ κ.λπ. Η αναφορά είναι, μεταξύ άλλων, για οποιαδήποτε είδη μίας χρήσης που χρησιμοποιούνται σε εστιατόρια, μπαρ, χώρους συνεδρίων, snack bars, υπηρεσία δωματίου, ψύκτες νερού, δωμάτια επισκεπτών, μπάνια, σημεία για τσάι/καφέ ή άλλους χώρους όπου μπορούν να παρέχονται τέτοια είδη μιας χρήσης.
Είδη μίας χρήσης επιτρέπεται να παρέχονται μόνο για υπηρεσίες φαγητού/ποτού σε πακέτο, (π.χ. υπηρεσίες για καφέ/τσάι/φαγητό προς μεταφορά, για πακέτα πρωινού, για μπουφέ ορθίων με περισσότερους από 100 επισκέπτες και σε έκτακτες περιπτώσεις όπου λόγοι ασφάλειας ή τοπικοί κανονισμοί ασφάλειας απαιτούν την χρήση τους (όπως σε χώρους πισίνας, και περιβάλλοντα υψηλών υγειονομικών απαιτήσεων). Αυτά τα είδη μιας χρήσης που προορίζονται για προϊόντα υπηρεσιών τροφίμων και ποτών, δεν πρέπει να είναι από συμβατικό πλαστικό. Η εγκατάσταση οφείλει να χρησιμοποιεί πιστοποιημένα βιοδιασπώμενα ή κομποστοποιήσιμα πλαστικά υποκατάστατα (πιστοποιημένα από ανεξάρτητο φορέα πιστοποίησης) ή μη πλαστικά υλικά όπως χαρτί (κατά προτίμηση χωρίς πλαστική επικάλυψη), χαρτόνι, ξύλο, άμυλο καλαμποκιού ή άλλα φυτικής προέλευσης υλικά. Συνιστάται όλα τα εναλλακτικά υλικά που χρησιμοποιούνται να είναι επίσης πιστοποιημένα ως βιοδιασπώμενα ή κομποστοποιήσιμα.
Τα είδη μιας χρήσης για υπηρεσίες φαγητού/ποτού σε πακέτο δεν πρέπει να αποτελούν την προεπιλεγμένη ή μοναδική επιλογή· η εγκατάσταση οφείλει να περιορίζει ενεργά τη χρήση τους, για παράδειγμα αποφεύγοντας την ανοιχτή προβολή ποτηριών ή καπακιών μίας χρήσης.
Για τα είδη φαγητού/ποτού σε πακέτο ή σε περιπτώσεις όπου η χρήση ειδών μίας χρήσης είναι αναπόφευκτη για λόγους ασφάλειας, συνιστάται η εγκατάσταση να εφαρμόζει συστήματα ποσοτικής ιχνηλασίας και παρακολούθησης, συμπεριλαμβάνοντας:
• ετήσια μείωση του αριθμού ειδών μίας χρήσης για υπηρεσίες τροφίμων και ποτών
• τον μακροπρόθεσμο στόχο της σταδιακής κατάργησης όλων των ειδών μίας χρήσης, ακόμη και κομποστοποιήσιμων
• τον έλεγχο εξαιρέσεων (π.χ. καταγράφοντας πόσα είδη μιας χρήσης χρησιμοποιούνται ακόμα σε χώρους πισίνας ή συναφή χώρους).
Σημείωση για εθνική προσαρμογή: Στην Σουηδία και την Γαλλία, δεν χρησιμοποιούνται πιστοποιημένα βιοδιασπώμενα ή κομποστοποιήσιμα πλαστικά υποκατάστατα (ακόμη και αν είναι πιστοποιημένα από ανεξάρτητο φορέα πιστοποίησης). Τα είδη φαγητού/ποτού σε πακέτο κατασκευάζονται αποκλειστικά από μη πλαστικά υλικά όπως χαρτί (κατά προτίμηση χωρίς πλαστική επικάλυψη), χαρτόνι, ξύλο, άμυλο καλαμποκιού ή άλλα φυτικής προέλευσης, βιοδιασπώμενα υλικά.
Κατά την επιθεώρηση, ο επιθεωρητής επιβεβαιώνει ότι δεν χρησιμοποιούνται είδη μίας χρήσης σε όλους τους χώρους επισκεπτών (π.χ. δωμάτια, εστιατόρια, μπαρ, αίθουσες συνεδρίων κ.λπ.). Ο επιθεωρητής πραγματοποιεί δειγματοληψίες σε τουλάχιστον 1 χώρο αποθήκευσης σύμφωνα με τη μεθοδολογία A όπως περιγράφεται στο Γλωσσάρι για να επαληθεύσει την συμμόρφωση.
Σε ειδικές περιπτώσεις (για είδη υπηρεσιών φαγητού/ποτού σε πακέτο, για μπουφέ ορθίων άνω των 100 ατόμων ή όπου τα είδη μιας χρήσης είναι αναπόφευκτα για λόγους ασφάλειας), ο επιθεωρητής επαληθεύει ότι:
• δεν χρησιμοποιούνται πλαστικά είδη μίας χρήσης· και
• τυχόν είδη μίας χρήσης που παρέχονται είναι κατασκευασμένα από πιστοποιημένα βιοδιασπώμενα ή κομποστοποιήσιμα εναλλακτικά πλαστικά ή μη πλαστικά όπως χαρτί, χαρτόνι, (κατά προτίμηση χωρίς πλαστική επικάλυψη), ξύλο, άμυλο καλαμποκιού ή άλλα φυτικά βιοδιασπώμενα υλικά.
Όπου απαιτείται, ο επιθεωρητής μπορεί να ζητήσει πιστοποιητικά προϊόντων ή Δελτία Δεδομένων Ασφαλείας για την επιβεβαίωση της κομποστοποιησιμότητας ή βιοδιασπασιμότητας του υλικού, και των προϋποθέσεων που απαιτούνται.
Single-use food-service items are resource-intensive, contribute significantly to waste generation in tourism and hospitality establishments and are rarely recycled effectively. Eliminating them reduces environmental impact and promotes a shift toward more sustainable and circular consumption patterns. Prioritising reuse over disposability also aligns with broader waste reduction and climate action strategies.
The establishment does not use single-use food-service items (referring to all disposable items used for in-house Food & Beverage (F&B) services), such as cups/glasses, plates, cutlery, straws, coffee stirrers, etc. This includes, amongst others, any single-use food-service items used in restaurants, bars, conference areas, snack bars, room service, water fountains, guest rooms, bathrooms, tea/coffee stations, or any other areas where single-use items might be offered.
Single-use items may only be provided for take-away purposes (e.g. take-away coffee/tea/food, breakfast bags, for standing buffets with more than 100 guests, and in exceptional cases where safety concerns or local safety regulations require their use (e.g. pool areas, hygiene-critical settings). These single-use items intended for F&B products are not made of conventional plastic. Instead, the establishment uses certified biodegradable or compostable plastic alternatives (verified by an external or third-party certification body) or non-plastic materials such as paper (preferably without plastic coating), cardboard, wood, cornstarch or other plant-based materials. It is recommended that all alternative materials used are also certified biodegradable or compostable. Take-away single-use items are not presented as the default or only option; the establishment actively minimises their use, for example by avoiding the open display of disposable cups or lids.
For take-away items or if single-use food-service items are unavoidable due to safety concerns, it is furthermore recommended that the establishment implements quantitative tracking and monitoring mechanisms, including:
- annual reduction in units of single-use food service items;
- phasing out of all single-use items, even compostable ones, as a long-term goal; and
monitoring of exceptions (e.g. documenting how many single-use items are still used in pool areas or similar). Note on national adaptation: In SE, FR no certified biodegradable or compostable plastic alternatives (even if verified by an external or third-party certification body) are used. Take-away items are solely made out of non-plastic materials such as paper (preferably without plastic coating), cardboard, wood, cornstarch or other plant-based, biodegradable materials.
During the visual inspection, the auditor confirms that no single-use food service items are in used in all guest areas (e.g. guest rooms, restaurants, bars, conference areas etc.). The auditor conducts samplings in at least 1 storage area following methodology A as described in the glossary to furthermore verify conformity.
In specific circumstances, for take-away items, standing buffets with more than 100 guests, or where single-use items are unavoidable due to safety requirements, the auditor verifies that:
- no plastic single-use items are used, and
- any single-use items provided are made of certified biodegradable or compostable plastic alternatives, or non-plastic materials such as paper (preferably without plastic coating), cardboard, wood, cornstarch or other plant-based, biodegradable materials.
Where necessary, the auditor may request product certificates or the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to confirm the material’s composability or biodegradability and the conditions required.
Προσφέρεται τουλάχιστον 1 χορτοφαγικό ορεκτικό, 1 χορτοφαγικό κυρίως πιάτο και είτε 1 αυστηρά χορτοφαγικό ορεκτικό είτε 1 αυστηρά χορτοφαγικό κυρίως πιάτο, και οι επιλογές αυτές αναγράφονται σαφώς στο μενού/μπουφέ.
Η παροχή χορτοφαγικών και αυστηρά χορτοφαγικών (vegan) επιλογών είναι απαραίτητη για τη μείωση του περιβαλλοντικού αποτυπώματος των υπηρεσιών τροφίμων. Η βιομηχανική κτηνοτροφία αποτελεί σημαντική αιτία κλιματικής αλλαγής, αποψίλωσης δασών, απώλειας βιοποικιλότητας, ρύπανσης υδάτων και υποβάθμισης εδαφών. Αντίθετα, τα φυτικά γεύματα απαιτούν λιγότερους φυσικούς πόρους, παράγουν λιγότερες εκπομπές αερίων του θερμοκηπίου και μπορεί να υποστηρίζουν ανανεωτικά και βιώσιμα διατροφικά συστήματα. Αυτό το κριτήριο ανταποκρίνεται επίσης στην αυξανόμενη ζήτηση για υγιεινές, ηθικές και περιβαλλοντικά υπεύθυνες διαιτητικές επιλογές ανάμεσα στους επισκέπτες και το προσωπικό.
Τουλάχιστον 1 χορτοφαγικό ορεκτικό, 1 χορτοφαγικό κυρίως πιάτο και είτε 1 αυστηρά χορτοφαγικό ορεκτικό είτε 1 αυστηρά χορτοφαγικό κυρίως πιάτο προσφέρονται σε όλους τους τύπους υπηρεσιών τροφίμων (π.χ. πρωινό, μεσημεριανό, δείπνο) και σε όλα τα εσωτερικά διαχειριζόμενα εστιατόρια, κυλικεία, και μπαρ. Οι επιλογές αυτές επισημαίνονται σαφώς στο μενού ή στον μπουφέ μέσω εικονιδίων ή άλλων κατανοητών μέσων.
Χορτοφαγικά και αυστηρά χορτοφαγικά πιάτα διατίθενται επίσης κατόπιν αιτήματος στο εστιατόριο προσωπικού.
Για εστιατόρια που λειτουργούν με εβδομαδιαία μενού, προσφέρονται καθημερινές επιλογές χορτοφαγικών/ αυστηρά χορτοφαγικών πιάτων, οι οποίες διαφοροποιούνται εβδομαδιαίως για να εξασφαλίσουν ποικιλία και θρεπτική ισορροπία. Για τα εστιατόρια με σταθερό μενού (π.χ. εκείνα που προσφέρουν μενού πολλών πιάτων), διατίθενται και παρουσιάζονται χορτοφαγικές επιλογές.
Ενθαρρύνονται εναλλακτικά συστήματα μενού, όπως:
• προεπιλεγμένα χορτοφαγικά μενού με προαιρετική προσθήκη κρέατος/ψαριού, ή
• πιάτα διαθέσιμα σε είτε χορτοφαγική ή μη χορτοφαγική εκδοχή.
Τα εστιατόρια ενθαρρύνονται να συμπεριλάβουν μια σύντομη δήλωση στο μενού σχετικά με τα περιβαλλοντικά και υγειονομικά οφέλη της φυτικής διατροφής.
Συνιστάται επίσης τα χορτοφαγικά πιάτα να ακολουθούν ισορροπημένες διατροφικές αρχές: Περίπου
• 1/3 όσπρια ή άλλες πηγές πρωτεΐνης (π.χ. τόφου, τέμπε, φασόλια, φακές, φύκια),
• 1/3 δημητριακά ολικής άλεσης και,
• 1/3 λαχανικά ή φρούτα.
Ενθαρρύνεται η χρήση φυσικών τροφών και ελάχιστα επεξεργασμένων υλικών, ώστε να μειωθεί η επεξεργασία που απαιτεί μεγάλη κατανάλωση πόρων.
Κατά την επιτόπια επιθεώρηση, ο επιθεωρητής επιβεβαιώνει τα ακόλουθα:
• Ο απαιτούμενος αριθμός και τύπος των χορτοφαγικών και αυστηρά χορτοφαγικών πιάτων είναι διαθέσιμα και σαφώς σημειωμένα σε όλα τα μενού/μπουφέδες και εστιατόρια, σε όλους τους τύπους υπηρεσιών τροφίμων και σε όλα τα διαχειριζόμενα εσωτερικά εστιατόρια (π.χ. με εικόνες, σήματα, κ.λπ.)
• τα μενού εναλλάσσουν τις χορτοφαγικές και αυστηρά χορτοφαγικές επιλογές ώστε να αποφεύγεται η επανάληψη.
Offering vegetarian and vegan alternatives is essential for reducing the environmental footprint of food services. Industrial animal agriculture is a major driver of climate change, deforestation, biodiversity loss, water pollution and land degradation. By contrast, plant-based meals typically require fewer natural resources, produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions and may support regenerative and sustainable food systems. This criterion also responds to the increasing demand for healthy, ethical and environmentally responsible dietary choices among guests and staff.
At least 1 vegetarian starter; 1 vegetarian main course and either 1 vegan starter or main course are offered across all types of food services (e.g. breakfast, lunch, dinner) and in all internally managed restaurants, kiosks, snack bars, and the options are clearly marked on the menu or on the buffet. This indication is done by using icons or other easily understood means of communication. Vegetarian and vegan dishes are also made available on request in the staff canteen.
For restaurants operating on weekly menus, daily vegetarian/vegan options are offered, and vegetarian/vegan meals vary weekly to ensure diversity and nutritional balance. For restaurants with a fixed menu, such as those offering multi-course menus, vegetarian options are offered and presented. Alternative menu systems are encouraged, such as default vegetarian menus with optional meat/fish add-ons, or dishes that can be ordered in either vegetarian or non-vegetarian versions.
Restaurants are encouraged to include a short statement on the menu about the environmental and health benefits of plant-based eating. It is furthermore recommended that plant-based dishes follow balanced meal guidelines: approximately 1/3 legumes or other protein sources (e.g. tofu, tempeh, beans, lentils, algae), 1/3 whole grains or cereals and 1/3 vegetables or fruits. The use of whole-food and minimally processed ingredients is strongly encouraged to reduce resource-intensive processing.
During the visual inspection, the auditor confirms the following:
- the required number and type of vegetarian and vegan dishes are available, and these are clearly indicated on the menus/buffets across all types of food services and in all internally managed restaurants (e.g. with icons, signs etc.); and
- menus rotate vegetarian/vegan offerings to avoid repetition.
Οι εσωτερικοί χώροι εστιατορίων είναι χώροι μη καπνιζόντων, και όλοι οι υπόλοιποι δημόσιοι χώροι είναι, είτε χώροι μη καπνιζόντων, είτε διαθέτουν σαφώς διαχωρισμένους χώρους καπνίσματος.
Για την προστασία της υγείας και της άνεσης των επισκεπτών και του προσωπικού, καθώς και για τη μείωση της εσωτερικής ατμοσφαιρικής ρύπανσης και των περιβαλλοντικών επιπτώσεων από το κάπνισμα ή το άτμισμα, όλοι οι εσωτερικοί χώροι εστιατορίων είναι χώροι μη καπνιζόντων. Επίσης, οι κοινόχρηστοι χώροι της εγκατάστασης διατηρούνται είτε ως χώροι μη καπνιζόντων είτε με σαφώς διαχωρισμένες ζώνες καπνίσματος. Η καθιέρωση σαφών πολιτικών απαγόρευσης καπνίσματος βελτιώνει την ποιότητα του εσωτερικού αέρα, αποτρέπει την έκθεση σε παθητικό κάπνισμα, και υποστηρίζει ένα υγιέστερο περιβάλλον για όλους.
Οι εσωτερικοί χώροι εστιατορίων είναι χώροι μη καπνιζόντων. Οι υπόλοιποι κοινόχρηστοι χώροι είναι είτε χώροι μη καπνιζόντων, είτε η ζώνη μη καπνιζόντων (εσωτερική και εξωτερική) είναι διαχωρισμένη από τη ζώνη καπνίσματος, έτσι ώστε τα άτομα που κάθονται στη ζώνη μη καπνιζόντων, να μην επηρεάζονται από τους καπνιστές.
Ο φυσικός διαχωρισμός μπορεί να περιλαμβάνει δομικά εμπόδια (π.χ. τοίχους, διαχωριστικά, φράχτες), μια σταθερή και οριοθετημένη ζώνη καπνίσματος σε κατάλληλη απόσταση, ή άλλα μέτρα που αποτρέπουν τους καπνιστές από το να κάθονται ή να στέκονται δίπλα σε μη καπνιστές. Οι ζώνες μη καπνιζόντων και καπνίσματος επισημαίνονται σαφώς με κατανοητές πινακίδες.
Επιπλέον, η εγκατάσταση παρέχει, στις καθορισμένες ζώνες καπνίσματος, σταχτοδοχεία ή πυρασφαλείς κάδους για αποτσίγαρα με σαφή σήμανση. Συνιστάται η ζώνη μη καπνιζόντων να είναι μεγαλύτερη από τη ζώνη καπνίσματος.
Κατά την επιτόπια επιθεώρηση, ο επιθεωρητής επιβεβαιώνει ότι:
• το κάπνισμα δεν επιτρέπεται σε όλους τους εσωτερικούς χώρους εστιατορίων
• όλοι οι άλλοι κοινόχρηστοι χώροι είναι, είτε χώροι μη καπνιζόντων, είτε υπάρχει φυσικός διαχωρισμός και πινακίδες που υποδεικνύουν τα τμήματα καπνίσματος και τμήματα μη καπνίσματος
• όλες οι καθορισμένες ζώνες καπνίσματος είναι εξοπλισμένες με σταχτοδοχεία ή κάδους τσιγάρων, οι οποίοι χρησιμοποιούνται σωστά. Δηλαδή ο περιβάλλων χώρος τους είναι απαλλαγμένος από αποτσίγαρα. Εάν εντοπίζονται αποτσίγαρα, η εγκατάσταση πρέπει να εφαρμόσει εκπαίδευση ή άλλα μέτρα, ώστε να διασφαλιστεί η σωστή χρήση και συντήρηση της ζώνης καπνίσματος.
To protect the health and comfort of guests and staff, and to reduce indoor air pollution and environmental impacts from smoking or vaping, all indoor restaurants are non-smoking and public areas of the establishment are maintained as non-smoking or with clearly separated non-smoking zones. Establishing clear no-smoking policies improves indoor air quality, prevents exposure to second-hand smoke, and supports a healthier environment for all.
The indoor restaurant areas are non-smoking. Any other public areas are either non-smoking, or the non-smoking section (indoors and outdoors) is clearly physically separated from the smoking section, so that persons sitting in the non-smoking section are not affected by the smokers.
Physical separation may include structural barriers (e.g. walls, screens, fencing), a fixed and clearly demarcated smoking zone at an appropriate distance, or other measures that prevent smokers from sitting or standing directly adjacent to non-smoking guests. The non-smoking and smoking sections are marked clearly with signs in an easily understandable way. The establishment furthermore provides ash trays or clearly marked, fire-safe cigarette disposal bins in designated smoking areas. It is recommended that the non-smoking area is larger than the smoking area.
During the visual inspection, the auditor confirms that:
- smoking is not allowed in all indoor restaurants;
- all other public areas are either non-smoking or when there are both, a physical separation, and signs indicating the smoking and non-smoking parts of the public areas; and
- all designated smoking areas are equipped with ashtrays or cigarette bins, and that these are used properly; meaning their surrounding area is free from cigarette litter. If cigarette litter is present, the establishment must implement training or other measures to ensure proper use and maintenance of the smoking area.
The establishment formulates an action plan aligned with its strategic sustainability targets.
To translate the establishment’s strategic sustainability targets (criterion 1.2) into measurable and goal-oriented actions, an action plan is required. It ensures the practical implementation of strategic objectives and provides a framework for tracking progress and continuous improvement.
The establishment formulates an action plan that outlines specific steps to implement its strategic sustainability targets (criterion 1.2). The action plan is a central operational tool of the establishment’s sustainability management system that reflects relevance to the specific context of the property. For example, if water scarcity is a regional concern, the action plan places greater emphasis on water-saving initiatives.
The action plan covers the entire certification period (24 months), with actions clearly divided by year to track progress and enable annual updates.
For establishments with more than 50 employees the plan includes a minimum of 4 actions per certification period. For establishments with less than 50 employees, a minimum of 2 actions per certification period are included.
Actions cover at least 2 Green Key areas, for example energy, water, waste, social sustainability/CSR (e.g. staff equity, inclusion, community engagement etc.), biodiversity protection, sustainable procurement, risk and crisis management, etc., and each action relates to at least 1 strategic sustainability target. If developed as part of criterion 1.2., the plan also reflects the vision, mission and thematic priorities of the targets, ensuring a coherent and goal-driven approach.
When preparing the annual action plan, it is recommended to use the Green Key criteria for inspiration, both regarding conformity with guideline criteria not yet implemented and to further improve engagement in already implemented imperative and guideline criteria. Actions that are already fulfilled are not included in the annual action plan, and listing a Green Key guideline criterion as an action is not sufficient. However, it is acceptable to include supporting actions that contribute to the future implementation of a guideline criterion (e.g. conducting a feasibility study in preparation for meeting a specific guideline criterion).
All actions are measurable (e.g. number, percentage, quantity or completed task). For each action, the following is clearly documented:
- a description of the action, its timeline and the intended outcome;
- the responsible department or staff members; and
- the link to the strategic sustainability target/s it supports.
The actions are co-developed by management and staff (e.g under supervision of the Green Key Establishment Representative) ensuring that both groups contribute to the identification and prioritisation of actions. Management is responsible for the accuracy of actions, their implementation, and follow-up. If an action has not been fulfilled, the establishment provides a clear and documented justification explaining the reasons (e.g. financial, structural, contextual, timing constraints) and present a concrete plan of action for either completing the same action in the next certification period or replacing it with a more feasible alternative.
If the establishment is part of a chain, collective chain-level actions may serve as inspiration, provided that these are translated into specific individual/local actions. If adopted without modification, the establishment justifies their relevance. Chain-wide actions/documents can be accepted as evidence if the establishment demonstrates that the actions are implemented at their property and appropriate for their structural, geographical and cultural context.
During the audit, the establishment presents the written annual action plan for the coming certification period. It is checked that the plan:
- includes a minimum of 4 actions (for establishments with more than 50 employees) or 2 actions (for establishments with less than 50 employees) per certification period;
- contains actions linked to 1 or more strategic sustainability targets;
- includes timelines and responsible departments or staff members; and
- is communicated internally and available to staff.
In specific circumstances, for re-applicants, the establishment presents evidence of progress or completion of the previous action plan. This may include reports, photos, contracts, partnership agreements, training records, or other verifiable documentation. Examples include:
- an invitation to or record of a staff sustainability event (e.g. volunteering, awareness-raising);
- a contract, partnership agreement, or MoU with an NGO or sustainability organisation;
- proof of membership in a sustainable or social initiative connected to a sustainability action; and/or
- reports, minutes, or activity records connected to the action.
If actions were not fulfilled, for re-applicants, a documented justification and a plan explaining whether the unfulfilled actions will be implemented in the next certification period (and how), or why they are not considered feasible for the establishment, is presented.
To translate the establishment’s strategic sustainability targets (criterion 1.2) into measurable and goal-oriented actions, an action plan is required. It ensures the practical implementation of strategic objectives and provides a framework for tracking progress and continuous improvement.
The establishment formulates an action plan that outlines specific steps to implement its strategic sustainability targets (criterion 1.2). The action plan is a central operational tool of the establishment’s sustainability management system that reflects relevance to the specific context of the property. For example, if water scarcity is a regional concern, the action plan places greater emphasis on water-saving initiatives.
The action plan covers the entire certification period (24 months), with actions clearly divided by year to track progress and enable annual updates.
For establishments with more than 50 employees the plan includes a minimum of 4 actions per certification period. For establishments with less than 50 employees, a minimum of 2 actions per certification period are included.
Actions cover at least 2 Green Key areas, for example energy, water, waste, social sustainability/CSR (e.g. staff equity, inclusion, community engagement etc.), biodiversity protection, sustainable procurement, risk and crisis management, etc., and each action relates to at least 1 strategic sustainability target. If developed as part of criterion 1.2., the plan also reflects the vision, mission and thematic priorities of the targets, ensuring a coherent and goal-driven approach.
When preparing the annual action plan, it is recommended to use the Green Key criteria for inspiration, both regarding conformity with guideline criteria not yet implemented and to further improve engagement in already implemented imperative and guideline criteria. Actions that are already fulfilled are not included in the annual action plan, and listing a Green Key guideline criterion as an action is not sufficient. However, it is acceptable to include supporting actions that contribute to the future implementation of a guideline criterion (e.g. conducting a feasibility study in preparation for meeting a specific guideline criterion).
All actions are measurable (e.g. number, percentage, quantity or completed task). For each action, the following is clearly documented:
- a description of the action, its timeline and the intended outcome;
- the responsible department or staff members; and
- the link to the strategic sustainability target/s it supports.
The actions are co-developed by management and staff (e.g under supervision of the Green Key Establishment Representative) ensuring that both groups contribute to the identification and prioritisation of actions. Management is responsible for the accuracy of actions, their implementation, and follow-up. If an action has not been fulfilled, the establishment provides a clear and documented justification explaining the reasons (e.g. financial, structural, contextual, timing constraints) and present a concrete plan of action for either completing the same action in the next certification period or replacing it with a more feasible alternative.
If the establishment is part of a chain, collective chain-level actions may serve as inspiration, provided that these are translated into specific individual/local actions. If adopted without modification, the establishment justifies their relevance. Chain-wide actions/documents can be accepted as evidence if the establishment demonstrates that the actions are implemented at their property and appropriate for their structural, geographical and cultural context.
During the audit, the establishment presents the written annual action plan for the coming certification period. It is checked that the plan:
- includes a minimum of 4 actions (for establishments with more than 50 employees) or 2 actions (for establishments with less than 50 employees) per certification period;
- contains actions linked to 1 or more strategic sustainability targets;
- includes timelines and responsible departments or staff members; and
- is communicated internally and available to staff.
In specific circumstances, for re-applicants, the establishment presents evidence of progress or completion of the previous action plan. This may include reports, photos, contracts, partnership agreements, training records, or other verifiable documentation. Examples include:
- an invitation to or record of a staff sustainability event (e.g. volunteering, awareness-raising);
- a contract, partnership agreement, or MoU with an NGO or sustainability organisation;
- proof of membership in a sustainable or social initiative connected to a sustainability action; and/or
- reports, minutes, or activity records connected to the action.
If actions were not fulfilled, for re-applicants, a documented justification and a plan explaining whether the unfulfilled actions will be implemented in the next certification period (and how), or why they are not considered feasible for the establishment, is presented.