Will drive sustainability in hospitality and tourism sector

Emirates Green Building Council (EmiratesGBC) has announced that it has been assigned as the exclusive operator of the “Green Key” eco-label to promote sustainability in the hospitality and tourism sector of the UAE.

A non-governmental, non-profit and independent programme, Green Key is recognised by the World Tourism Organisation and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and is the largest global eco-label relating to accommodation, EmiratesGBC explained. A prestigious citation that underlines the environment-friendly energy, water and waste management commitment of hotels, serviced apartments and other accommodation facilities, Green Key is now regarded as a key consideration in promoting sustainable development, the council elaborated.

In light of this, EmiratesGBC said that it would guide hotels and other tourism establishments in pursuing the Green Key eco-label, as certified hotels are expected to meet baseline criteria in environmental management and awareness and efficient management of water, energy and waste.

According to EmiratesGBC, several hotels in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Fujairah have already achieved Green Key certifications. However, with the large number of hotels across all emirates and more developments in the pipeline, there is tremendous potential in the market to adopt Green Key certification.

In this context, Adnan Sharafi, Chairman, EmiratesGBC, said: “Tourism and hospitality are key growth sectors of the UAE, with Dubai, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, announcing the ambitious Dubai Tourism Vision 2020 to host over 20 million annual tourists by the turn of the decade. Today, with tourists being increasingly conscious and demanding of green features, certifying hotels and other accommodation facilities to the Green Key eco-label will further highlight the industry thought leadership of the nation. It will also complement the ‘green economy for sustainable development’ initiative of the UAE by integrating tangible sustainability features in hotels and other related establishments.”