To obtain the GreenSign certification, our hotels first fill out the comprehensive criteria catalog. This is followed by an official on-site audit in the respective establishments, during which relevant documents and evidence are reviewed. In total, more than 100 criteria are examined in eight areas:
- Management and communication
- Environment (energy, water and waste)
- Biodiversity & cultural heritage
- Purchasing
- Regionalism & mobility
- Quality management & sustainable development
- Social responsibility
- Economic responsibility
The basis for this is formed by internationally recognized guidelines and recommendations for sustainability, which include not only the GSTC criteria (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) but also the international environmental management standard ISO 14001 and ISO 26000, a guide to social responsibility.
For each criterion, a score is awarded to determine the sustainability performance in the different areas. Based on these values, the hotel is then classified into a sustainability level (Level 1-5).
However, after successfully completing an audit, we are not satisfied with the status quo. With our location-specific action plans, we are constantly striving to become more sustainable and to continue to develop.