October 2025

The fourth Green Key Slovenia Conference brought together a broad range of stakeholders in sustainable tourism at the Brdo Congress Centre. The event gathered representatives of certified Green Key establishments, experts in tourism and ESG reporting, specialists in sustainable management, public sector representatives, and partner organisations. Through shared experience and expertise, participants continued to co-create responsible tourism in Slovenia.  The conference offered a diverse programme focused on practical approaches to sustainability within the tourism sector. Participants heard examples of Good Practices from Slovenian hotels, campsites, restaurants, and attractions where sustainable solutions have become part of daily operations. Topics included the efficient use of energy and water, the use of materials with a lower environmental impact, and transparent ESG reporting.  Want to read more about Good Practices from all around the globe or submit your own one? Follow this link.   Speakers also highlighted the importance of collaboration with local suppliers and the wider community. Such cooperation strengthens local economies, supports the preservation of cultural and natural heritage, and enhances the authenticity of the visitor experience. The examples presented demonstrated that sustainability adds value by increasing competitiveness, trust, and recognition, while connecting all stakeholders who contribute to the future of Slovenian tourism.  A notable moment of the event was a lecture by Dr Sanela Peresciutti, who reminded attendees that sustainability is not only about caring for the environment, but also about caring for people. She underlined the role of emotional maturity, empathy, and self-awareness in building communities that can sustain both human and environmental wellbeing.  Beyond the exchange of knowledge and best practice, the conference served as an important platform for dialogue, networking, and mutual support. Participants were thrilled; they reaffirmed that open cooperation and the exchange of ideas are essential for achieving meaningful and lasting change.  The event once again emphasised that Green Key represents more than a certificate. It is a shared commitment to responsible practice and collective responsibility within the tourism sector. Through the efforts of Green Key establishments, Slovenia continues to strengthen its reputation as a destination that values sustainability and accountability in tourism development. 

A celebrated long-term commitment    Novotel Manila Araneta City and Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City have been recently awarded the Green Key certification, recognising their commitment to responsible hospitality.  “At Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City, our Green Key certification reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting the planet while delivering exceptional guest experiences” said Maria Manlulu-Garcia, Area General Manager. “This achievement demonstrates that sustainability and comfort can go hand in hand.”  Novotel Manila’s sustainability journey began a decade ago, with environmental initiatives becoming part of its daily operations. Ibis Styles Manila has also placed emphasis on reducing environmental impact through its amenities and facilities. Together, the two hotels put sustainability at the heart of their service, a commitment now recognised with the Green Key certificate.    Concrete sustainable actions    Across both establishments, guest rooms have been designed to avoid single-use plastics. Refillable water containers, pump dispensers for toiletries, eco-certified paper products and biodegradable waste liners are now standard. Energy-saving measures include preset air-conditioning, LED lighting, and towel and linen reuse programmes.  The hotels are very involved in reducing food waste and offering plastic-free dining. Vegetarian options are available, and Novotel donates untouched breakfast food to the Philippine Red Cross. Meetings and events are organised with sustainability in mind, using QR code menus, LED signage, reusable flip charts, and reduced paper use.  Behind the scenes, the hotels prioritise suppliers with recognised sustainability practices, separate waste effectively, use in-house water refilling stations, and adopt energy-efficient lighting and cleaning products. Both guests and employees are encouraged to take part in activities such as Earth Hour, clean-up drives, and energy-saving initiatives including reduced car idling.        Both Novotel and Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City want to continue to strengthen their environmental initiatives in the years to come. Thank you and congratulations for Araneta Hotels Inc.’s ongoing commitment.   Inspired by Novotel and Ibis Styles Manila Araneta City’s journey toward more sustainability? Read other empowering news of Green Key’s network here.