HBI Staff | New Delhi 
Green Key, an international certification scheme for hotels and tourism facilities, was officially launched in New Delhi on August 8, 2023. Daniel Schaffer, CEO of the Foundation for Environment Education (FEE) Copenhagen launched the Green Key operations and certifications in India. Dr Jagat Mangaraj, National Operator – Green Key India and former Director of the Institute of Hotel Management Ahmedabad, has been entrusted with the responsibility to head and monitor the entire Green Key Certification process in India. Padmashri Kartikeya V Sarabhai, Director- Centre for Environment Education (CEE) & Sanskriti Menon, Senior Programme Director- CEE were present at the launch.
The Green Key certification is one of the world’s leading standards of excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operations for hotels and other tourism establishments. In India, the certification is being implemented by CEE Ahmedabad, a member organisation of FEE Copenhagen. Earlier CEE in association with FEE implemented Blue Flag, another high-standard Global Environmental certification for the beaches in India.
International Hotel Brands like Accor, Radisson, IHG & Marriot have got into an agreement with Green Key International and are soon expected to implement this certification in India. Over 4000 establishments have been certified by Green Key so far globally in 60 countries. Green Key certification is available for hotels, campsites, hostels, conference facilities and tourist attractions to deliver strategic and sustainable outcomes, thus promoting responsible tourism in India. Many senior dignitaries from the hospitality and tourism industry and hospitality academia were present for the launch.
