TROY, N.Y.—Audubon International—the environmentally focused non-profit organization offering members numerous certifications and conservation initiatives to protect the areas where we all live, work, and play—announced that it is one of 49 organizations to meet Travalyst’s criteria for lodging industry sustainability certification through its Green Lodging and Green Hospitality Programs.
Founded in 2019 by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, Travalyst is a not-for-profit coalition of some of the biggest brands in travel and technology including Booking.com, Expedia Group, Google, Skyscanner, Travelport and Trip.com Group. The coalition works to bring sustainability information to the forefront to help travelers make more informed choices on where they spend their dollars.
“Being included among Travalyst’s fully vetted organizations is more proof that our Green Lodging and Green Hospitality Certification programs are global leaders in helping the accommodations industry meet market demand for more sustainable operations,” said Audubon International CEO Christine Kane. “We look forward to seeing our organization included on top travel sites as customers increasingly base their booking decisions on environmental best practices.”
Offered in Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze levels of certification, the Green Lodging and Green Hospitality programs provide independent third-party verification that audited lodging facilities have met environmental best practice standards and have demonstrated a strong commitment to making improvements by saving energy, conserving water, and reducing waste. Audubon International’s eco-rated partner facilities enjoy a distinct marketing advantage and public recognition as an environmental leader.
First Step in a Broader, Ongoing Effort
By asking certification bodies to meet a set of criteria, Travalyst aims to enable industry alignment behind accommodation sustainability certifications. These criteria are designed to establish an initial threshold that supports the certification industry to meet evolving regulatory requirements. They represent the first step in a broader, ongoing effort to improve the sustainability governance of certifications for the accommodation sector.
Following an independent review of their processes, the certifications listed are compliant with three initial criteria developed by the Travalyst coalition and validated by its Independent Advisory Group.
“We are gratified to be recognized as one of the first 49 accommodation sustainability certifications compliant with the Travalyst criteria,” said Greg Poirier, Audubon International’s Director of Green Lodging and Green Hospitality Certification. “This is a vital step toward greater consistency and transparency in the sustainability efforts of the tourism industry. Being part of this initiative is key to the growth of our mission and we look forward to continuing our work with every partner to advance sustainable best practices in the lodging and hospitality sectors.”
To learn more about how your local golf course, community or resort can gain recognition for your environmental efforts or to learn how to expand your initiatives through Audubon International’s numerous environmental certifications, visit www.auduboninternational.org or call toll free: 1-844-767-9051.