Increasing Accessibility of Certification
The Eco-Rating Core Criteria Pathway makes sustainability certification more accessible than ever for hoteliers.
This pathway includes:
- Clear core criteria: We’ve defined the program’s baseline operational practices and processes—37 questions in the current Eco-Rating assessment—that constitute the minimum requirements for a 1-Key Eco-Rating Certification.
- A flexible self-assessment: Members who meet the Core Criteria may either qualify directly to the audit phase or answer additional questions to pursue a higher Eco-Rating.
- An expanded member toolkit: Each mandatory question will include supporting tools and resources that properties can use to develop and strengthen their sustainability practices.
By setting clear baseline requirements, offering a more flexible self-assessment option, and providing enhanced tools, the updated Eco-Rating program makes sustainability certification achievable for hotels at every stage of their sustainability journey.
How It Works
- Once you register and receive access to the Eco-Rating self-assessment, you’ll be able to isolate the Core Criteria questions by selecting the “Display Core Criteria Only” checkbox located at the top of each section. This feature allows members to focus exclusively on the 37 baseline requirements.
- Core Criteria questions will be clearly identified within the assessment as “mandatory”. All Core Criteria questions must be completed to be eligible to submit your assessment and qualify for an audit.
- Once completed and the appropriate documentation has been uploaded, you’ll be eligible for an audit and, therefore, an opportunity to qualify for 1-Key Eco-Rating.
Note:
- The enrollment process remains unchanged
- Instructions specific to Core Criteria will be provided to you and can be found within the “How to Complete the Self-Assessment” section of the “Getting Started” page
- In cases where multiple users complete the assessment and/or the assessment is completed over multiple sessions, the platform will save the user’s selection
- The questions that make up the Core Criteria will be accompanied by supporting templates and, where relevant, documentation from brands. You will be able to find it by clicking on the help symbols while completing the assessment or by navigating to the “Resources” section of the Members Area
Tools and Resources to Support Your Certification
To support members completing the assessment, Green Key Global will continue to provide an expanded sustainability toolkit within the Eco-Rating assessment platform, including for Core Criteria
These resources include:
- Sustainability policy templates
- Operational implementation guides
- Practical checklists for sustainability implementation
- Brand documents (where available)
These tools help properties with their responses in the assessment questionnaire.
Begin Your Certification Journey
Whether your property is just beginning its sustainability journey or building on an established program, the Core Criteria provides a clear and flexible path toward recognized environmental performance.
Utilize the Core Criteria Checklist to gauge your current sustainability practices and evaluate your property’s readiness for certification.
