File photo used for representation only
Doha: Enhancing sustainability drive in hospitality sector, 20 more hotels registered with Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC) programme are set to obtain Green Key certifications.
“QGBC implemented Green Key certification programme in hospitality sector in 2021 to create a culture of environment-friendly practices in hotels following sustainability goals of the country,” said QGBC Director, Eng Meshal Al Shamari.
Speaking on a Qatar TV programme recently, Al Shammari said that 12 hotels operating in Qatar already received Green Key certifications. “The Green Key, an international initiative, required a number of conditions from hotels like applying energy efficient electric system, lighting, regulating temperature, efficient air-conditioning system, waste management inside the hotels, proper ventilation and many more,” said Al Shammari, adding that QGBC provided necessary support and evaluation guiding hotels to obtain the certification.
He said that 4 and 5 star hotels have more potential to obtain the certifications as they meet most of the specifications, moreover they are more interested to be certified.
Al Shammari said that Green Key certification programme is being implemented in coordination with partners like Qatar Tourism. “The Qatar Tourism is playing key a role in promoting the concept the environment-friendly practice in hospitality sector encouraging hotels to apply for Green Key certification,” said Al Shammari.
He said that it is not only important to have green buildings but the eco-practices are also needed by users as well to ensure the sustainability. “To obtain Green Key certification, the hotels are also required to educate visitors about the important of preserving environment.
The employees’ behaviour towards sustainability is also marked during evaluation for the certification,” said Al Shammari.
The Green Key certification is the leading standard for excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry.
This prestigious eco-label represents a commitment by businesses that their premises adhere to the strict criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education. Green Key Eco-Label is awarded to more than 2,500 hotels in 55 countries.
He said that QGBS is also running Eco-Schools Programme attracting large number of participation from schools.
“Eco-Schools Programme is a two-year commitment programme encouraging young people to engage with their environment by allowing them the opportunity to actively protect it,” said Al Shammari.
He said that through the programme, young people experience a sense of achievement at being able to have a say in the environmental management policies of their schools, ultimately steering them towards certification and the prestige which comes with being awarded a Green Flag.
