Park in Vienna

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Sustainability certificates

Austrian Ecolabel

The Austrian Ecolabel demonstrates a company’s commitment to environmentally-aware management practices and social responsibility. Obtaining the Austrian Ecolabel is possible for many types of tourism businesses - from hotels to campsites and from theaters to museums. Certified businesses demonstrate a commitment to preserving the natural environment, focus on the well-being of visitors and achieve savings in their operations through environmentally-aware management practices. There are specific guidelines for each sector, e.g. for accommodation establishments and museums.

EU Ecolabel

The EU Ecolabel acts as a cross-border environmental quality label and therefore provides a standardized label in the common European market. The EU Ecolabel can be awarded to various categories of accommodation establishments and campsites in the tourism sector. An EU Ecolabel accommodation establishment limits its energy consumption, water and waste production and prioritizes the use of renewable resources.

EarthCheck

EarthCheck is an international tourism consulting group with a world-leading certification and benchmarking system for the travel and tourism industry. Its aim is to support tourism providers on their path to sustainability. Certifications can be awarded to accommodation providers, activities, attractions, restaurants, transportation and mobility services, tour operators and travel agencies as well as destinations. The sustainability standards are based on a holistic approach to sustainability.

Green Globe

The Green Globe certificate was developed specifically for the tourism industry and is recognized all over the world. Green Globe certifies conference centers, hotels, attractions and river cruise ships in the tourism sector. Its aim is to work with accredited companies to achieve continuous improvements with regard to sustainability. The Green Globe certification standard comprises 44 mandatory criteria relating to sustainability management, environmental protection, socio-economic development and the promotion of local cultural heritage.

Green Key

Green Key operates under the auspices of the international Foundation for Environmental Education, which was founded in 1980 with the aim of strengthening environmental protection and environmental education. This environmental certificate for accommodation, camping, restaurants, attractions, conference centers and more is used all over the world. Some of the criteria used are mandatory and some are optional and fall into 13 categories: environmental management, employee participation, guest information, water, laundry/cleaning, waste, energy, food/drinks, indoor climate, parks and parking areas, CSR, administration, activities.

Green Sign

Various types of business, such as spas and hotels, which can continuously improve their sustainability performance, are certified. A total of 5 levels provide a yardstick for sustainability. The criteria are spread across different core areas: management and communication, environment (energy, water, waste), biodiversity & cultural heritage, purchasing, regionality & mobility, quality management and sustainable development, social issues and economic responsibility.
The Green Sign Hotel Standard is recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).