HORSHAM, PA.—Green Key Global announced that Expedia, the leading online travel agency, has incorporated the Green Key Eco-Rating Program, alongside other sustainability programs, into a new feature on its website that allows listed properties to showcase their commitment to “green” hotel operations. The agreement is part of Expedia’s efforts to upgrade the resources available to eco-conscious travelers within the expedia.com website and the “Traveler’s Guide to Going Green” micro-site.
Expedia has created a number of avenues for Green Key member properties to be found on Expedia sites. Green Key members can highlight their participation in the program by registering via Expedia Partner Central and Green Key member properties can be found through the following: in Award & Affiliation on the hotel infosite on the details page; as an Amenity, searchable under the category of “Green/Sustainability;” and on the Green Hotels list which will be searchable by destination.
Green Key is designated by Expedia as a recognized third-party validated certification program. This distinction acknowledges the on-site audits that are an integral component of the Green Key program.
An Effort to Increase ‘Green’ Resources
“Today’s travelers are increasingly interested in gauging the environmental practices of hotels and other travel suppliers,” said Expedia’s Janice Lichtenwaldt, who earned her MBA in Sustainability from the Bainbridge Graduate Institute. “To that end, Expedia has elected to increase the ‘green’ resources available to our customers, as well as the ‘green’ recognition available to our partner hotels. We did our due diligence to make sure our partners in this endeavor promoted sound sustainable practices, and Green Key certainly fit the bill.”
Green Key, which ranks, certifies and audits hotels and resorts based on their commitment to sustainable “green” operations, is a joint venture between LRA Worldwide, Inc. and the Hotel Association of Canada. Green Key has been in operation in Canada for more than 10 years. It launched in the United States in September of 2009 and has been adopted by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Sofitel Luxury Hotels and on a pilot basis by Accor North America. Currently, Green Key has more than 1,300 member hotels throughout the United States and Canada.
“First and foremost, Green Key exists to provide our members with a comprehensive environmental program and guide to sustainable hotel operations,” explained Tony Pollard, managing director of Green Key Global. “But the marketing benefits of Green Key participation are a close second. We work very hard to provide our membership with every opportunity to promote their efforts and exposure through the Expedia website is an exciting addition to our marketing partner network.”
