Seventeen hotels and hostels across Scotland, including one in Inverness, have been awarded the prestigious Green Key certification, recognising their commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly practices.
The Mercure Inverness Hotel has earned its place on this coveted list following a rigorous audit by environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful.
It now joins a total of 41 establishments in Scotland that have achieved this internationally recognised eco-certification.
Green Key certification highlights the steps these hotels are taking to reduce their environmental footprint, from adopting energy-efficient systems to cutting food waste and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Other newly certified establishments include Fairmont St Andrews, Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel in Glasgow, and Aparthotel Adagio Glasgow Central, showcasing Scotland’s national push for greener tourism.
Hotels like Motel One Glasgow and Novotel Edinburgh Park have also successfully retained their Green Key certification for a second year, demonstrating their continued commitment to sustainability.
Jamie Ormiston, Training and Accreditation Coordinator at Keep Scotland Beautiful, praised all recipients, saying:
“We congratulate the establishments across Scotland receiving Green Key certification, including the Mercure Inverness Hotel, and commend their efforts to lead the way in sustainable tourism.”
Ormiston added:
“These establishments are part of a global movement to protect the environment while delivering outstanding guest experiences, setting an example for others to follow.”
The Green Key certification process evaluates a wide range of practices, including energy use, waste management, employee engagement, and efforts to reduce climate-change-causing emissions.
The Mercure Inverness Hotel’s success reflects the growing commitment in the Highlands to balance hospitality with environmental stewardship, ensuring that the region remains a sustainable and attractive destination for visitors.
Green Key certification not only benefits the environment but also helps businesses reduce costs by improving efficiency in resource use, a crucial advantage in today’s challenging economic climate.
Keep Scotland Beautiful is encouraging more businesses, including those in Inverness and across the Highlands, to apply for Green Key certification and join the movement towards a greener future for tourism.
“Whether it’s a small guesthouse or a large hotel, adopting sustainable practices benefits both the business and the environment,” said Ormiston.
Green Key is open to a range of establishments, including hotels, restaurants, visitor attractions, campsites, and conference centres, and aligns with global environmental standards recognised by the UN World Tourism Organisation.
By achieving Green Key certification, the Mercure Inverness Hotel is contributing to Scotland’s reputation as a leader in sustainable tourism, protecting the natural beauty of the Highlands while meeting the expectations of eco-conscious travellers.
To learn more about Green Key certification and how to apply, visit Green Key | Keep Scotland Beautiful.
Scotland’s tourism industry is paving the way for a more sustainable future, and with hotels like the Mercure Inverness setting the standard, the Highlands are well-positioned to remain a top destination for environmentally responsible travel.