In exciting news, Comfort Inn and Suites in Tobago has officially achieved Green Key certification, becoming one of only seven properties on the island to hold this prestigious designation. The Green Key certification is highly respected worldwide as the leading standard for environmental responsibility and sustainable operation in the tourism industry. Operators must adhere to strict environmental practices set by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) to maintain their certification, which is renewed annually.
During a presentation ceremony at the hotel in Orange Hill, Scarborough, Green TT director Willard Harris presented the certificate, a plaque, and a flag to the general manager of Comfort Inn and Suites, Maria Yip-John, who also serves as the vice president of the Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association (THTA). Harris highlighted the evaluation criteria, which includes environmental management, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and water conservation. Successful candidates earn certification valid for a year, with the opportunity for renewal after subsequent evaluation.
The main objective of the Green Key certification is to work with hospitality providers to secure both Green Key and Blue Flag certifications. This recognition offers various benefits, including reduced environmental impacts, financial savings from energy and waste management practices, and differentiation in the market to attract eco-conscious travelers.
Minister of Tourism Randall Mitchell commended Comfort Inn and Suites for being the first large hotel in Tobago to achieve Green Key status, emphasizing the hotel’s commitment to sustainable operations and setting an example for others in the industry. Yip-John expressed her team’s pride in achieving this certification, especially as the hotel approaches its second anniversary. She credited the hard work and dedication of her team in meeting the criteria for Green Key certification.
Wendell Walker, director of product development and destination management at the Tobago Tourism Agency, highlighted how Green Key enhances the island’s competitive positioning and commitment to developing Tobago as an eco-friendly destination. This certification increases the appeal of Tobago among environmentally conscious travelers, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly tourist destinations in key markets like the UK and Germany.
