Green Key Criteria 

Following a comprehensive review, the Green Key criteria has been updated. This task is undertaken every 5 years to ensure the criteria remains relevant and purposeful.

The updated criteria and new application processes will be implemented internationally on 1st October 2026.

The new Green Key criteria is divided into 7 categories. In each section there are a variety of Imperative and Guideline criteria.

You can learn more about the new application processes on the Green Key International website here:

Green Key — Certification Process 2026-2031

Below you can download the Green Key criteria and explanatory notes 2026-2031 for all categories categories:

Green Key certified establishments meet a set of high standard environmental requirements.  The Green Key criteria and their explanatory notes are available to all interested parties and can be downloaded below. We have developed criteria and explanatory notes for six Green Key categories (hotels and hostels, campsites and holiday parks, small accommodations, conference centres, restaurants, and attractions) covering the same 13 criteria areas. 

Green Key criteria fit into 13 categories, covering sustainable operations and environmental education. In each section there are a variety of Imperative and Guideline criteria.

Here you can download the Green Key criteria and explanatory notes 2022-2026 for each of the different categories: