AHLA and HAC Join Forces to Expand Green Key Global Certification in North America

Thursday, February 29, 2024

The partnership between the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and the Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) to administer the Green Key Global sustainability certification in both the United States and Canada will commence on April 1. Hotels are encouraged to enroll in the Green Key sustainability certification program during this period.

The Hotel Association of Canada established Green Key Global in 1994 to recognize hotels for their commitment to environmental sustainability practices, with its certification standards reflecting the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The program assesses and certifies hotels globally, evaluating their eco-friendly practices in energy and water savings, land management, handling of hazardous and non-hazardous waste, air quality improvement, and more.

This collaboration between AHLA and HAC is essential for the hospitality sector, as the demand for sustainable travel options is influencing the decisions of tourists, corporate travelers, and groups alike. The Green Key Global initiative not only validates the environmental efforts of hotels but also provides them with strategies for ongoing enhancement.

This initiative is an extension of AHLA’s Responsible Stay® program, which highlights the commitment of AHLA member hotels to sustainability through efficient use of energy and water, minimizing waste, and ethical sourcing.

“This partnership is a gamechanger for the hotel industry in the U.S. and Canada and takes our commitment to sustainability to the next level,” said AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers. “Green Key Global provides important third-party validation for hotels’ sustainability efforts, and it gives sustainability-minded travelers the information they need to choose the lodging options that are right for them. AHLA and HAC will be working together to promote these goals through this important partnership.”

“We are so proud of the commitments hotels are making on the ground as part of this program,” said HAC President & CEO Susie Grynol. “Establishing a Green Key Global North American standard of sustainability allows more properties to elevate their leadership in this space, and through this partnership, we believe we can make sustainability accessible for all hotels.”

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