Port of Spain, Trinidad – May 22, 2024 – Hyatt Regency Trinidad has been awarded the prestigious Green Key Certification, becoming the first hotel in Trinidad to receive this distinguished recognition. This milestone underscores the hotel’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and sets a new standard for eco-friendly hospitality practices both locally and globally. The official Green Key award and flag were presented to Hyatt Regency Trinidad during a ceremony on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. This accolade highlights the hotel’s dedication to sustainable operations and environmental stewardship. By obtaining Green Key certification, Hyatt Regency Trinidad not only enhances its reputation but also serves as an inspiration for other hotels to pursue similar eco-friendly initiatives.
“We are excited and proud to be the first hotel in Trinidad to be awarded Green Key status,” remarked Michael Hooper, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Trinidad. “This distinction signifies our ongoing commitment not only as part of the growing number of Hyatt hotels worldwide achieving this status but also as leaders spearheading environmentally responsible practices.”
Hyatt Regency Trinidad has demonstrated remarkable dedication to minimising its environmental impact and promoting sustainability throughout its operations. Key initiatives that contributed to this certification include: Energy Efficiency: Implementing advanced energy-saving systems to reduce consumption. Waste Reduction: Comprehensive recycling programs and the substitution of single-use plastics with eco-friendly alternatives. Community Engagement: Donating vegetable and fruit scraps to the Emperor Valley Zoo to support animal nutrition. Patrick Borely, the Director of Engineering and Lead of Green Key Team at the hotel, has been diligently serving as the hotel’s liaison and preparing its application for certification. He commented, “the Hyatt Regency Trinidad was pleased to have a local operator in Trinidad and Tobago that facilitated and worked together with us to bring the certification to reality. Otherwise it would have meant involving an overseas provider. I would encourage other hotels in Trinidad to seek green Key certification as it would lift the standard of the industry” Presenting the award to Haytt was Green T&T Board of Director Willard P. Harris, who had this to say: “As the first hotel in Trinidad to achieve Green Key status, Hyatt Regency Trinidad serves as an inspiration and leader in the industry. After almost a year of preparation and fulfilment of stringent criteria, the achievement is significant, and the hotel now plays a pivotal role in fostering a more sustainable and responsible tourism industry”.
The Green Key certification is coordinated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a global voluntary eco-certification program. With over 6,000 certified hotels and establishments in 60 countries, Green Key is the leading standard for excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operations in the tourism and hospitality sector. The certification process evaluates establishments on various criteria, including environmental management, energy conservation, waste management, and water conservation. In Trinidad and Tobago, Green T&T serves as the National Operator for the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Green T&T is responsible for the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the Green Key program within the country. Working in partnership with government agencies, tourism stakeholders, and hospitality establishments, Green T&T promotes sustainable practices, raises awareness about environmental conservation, and drives the growth of ecotourism.
The CEO of Green T&T, Joanna Moses-Wothke had this to say: “Chain hotels that prioritise environmental sustainability play a critical role in combating global climate change, while simultaneously achieving cost savings and enhancing their brand reputation. We applaud Hyatt Regency Trinidad for their unwavering commitment to obtaining environmental certification and aspire for it to serve as an exemplary model within the industry. “
In Tobago, two accommodations, Castara Retreats and Hibiscus Heights, have recently been added to the list of internationally certified Green Key hotels, bringing the total number of certified properties on the island to seven. Adventure Eco Villas, Bananaquit Vacations, House of Grace, Tropical Apartments, and Shepherds Inn in Tobago have received Green Key certification. In addition, Native Abode has recently embarked on a remarkable accomplishment by receiving its second certification. Additionally, once again, Miss Ayana and Top Catch Charters, the Tobago boat operators, have been awarded Blue Flag certification. Top Catch Charters has maintained this certification for three consecutive years, while Miss Ayana has achieved it for the second time. These two operators have consistently showcased their commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable operations.
Above: First-time certified Castara Retreats receiving their plaque and certification from members of Green T&T and TTAL
National Operator Green T&T currently implements the Green Key and Blue Flag programmes in partnership with the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL), both of which have been instrumental in promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism and hospitality industry.
Coordinated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Green Key and Blue Flag are two of the most globally recognised voluntary eco-certification programmes. The certification process evaluates various aspects of an establishment’s operations, including environmental management, waste management, environmental education and other sustainable practices, with over 4,400 certified Green Key sites and over 5,080 Blue Flag sites in more than 50 countries worldwide.
The recent certification ceremony occurred on November 21st and 22nd, where hotels and boat operators received their well-deserved Green Key and Blue Flag certificates and plaques and flags that proudly display their commitment to sustainable practices. This celebration marks a significant milestone for Tobago tourism as it prioritises eco-friendly initiatives that benefit visitors and the local environment.
Since 2018, TTAL has invited all tourist sites, accommodations, attractions, and restaurants in Tobago to participate in the programme. Participating sites can receive a comprehensive assessment from Green T&T and work towards meeting the esteemed Green Key standards. The sites are audited, and the respective National Juries review their applications. Upon achieving full compliance, these sites are awarded Green Key or Blue Flag certification for one year. This rigorous process has established Green Key and Blue Flag as some of the most reputable eco-labels worldwide, trusted by prominent chains such as Radisson, Marriott, Accor, and Hyatt.
The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) has issued this statement:
With seven (7) Green Key-certified properties, there are now more accommodationoptions for the eco-conscious visitor to Tobago. This sets Tobago apart from othercountries in the English-speaking Caribbean. The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL)is committed to promoting the Green Key programme to increase theawareness and adoption of the sustainable practices inherent in the certification.Together with programs such as the Tobago Recycling Resource Initiative andlegislation such as the Waste Management Rules, 2021 and the Wate ManagementRegulations, 2021, which lay out guidelines for reducing waste generation andexercising environmentally sound management of waste, Tobago is on the way tobeing more widely known as a destination where sustainable environmentalmeasures are commonplace.For Blue Flag, the awards signal the continued ability of the two boat operators to maintain the standards set out by Blue Flag. They act as a draw to the destination for travellers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while resident and as an example to other boat operators locally and within the region. The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) will continue to promote the Blue Flag program among boat operators and pursue full Blue Flag status for the pilot beaches at Mt. Irvine, Bloody Bay and Kings Bay.”
For Castara Retreats, the journey to certification was most impactful, with their sustainable approach supported by staff members and the community. The owner of Castara Retreats, Steve Felgate, cited:
“Green Key as an excellent validation of priorities that we have been long-term committed to at Castara Retreats. We plan to continue setting and achieving targets year after year and for our passion to protect and enhance the environment to be shared by guests, staff and all our local and international partners. We are super excited to share this journey with others. Our strategy for sustainability, to be published in early 2024, is now our top business priority.”
Native Abode is well-acquainted with the process and remains enthusiastic about the program. Here’s what they had to say:
“We have always strived to use our comparative advantage to make current and future gains in our business. This includes producing fruits and vegetables in an organic way, practising energy and water conservation, pre-ordering breakfast to reduce wastage, and using appropriate technology to eliminate printing. Green Key has provided formal recognition of how we do business. So, being Green Key certified means how we do business protects the environment and promotes sustainable prosperity, which resonates well with the growing climate-conscious market.“
Second-time awarded Native Abode celebrating with members of Green T&T and TTALOwner Mike Walmsley of the newly certified Hibiscus Heights receiving his certificate from Kirsten Cowie-Irvine of the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL)
Hibiscus Heights is a small but ambitious accommodation provider that has surpassed many criteria and eagerly anticipates reaping the rewards of its efforts. Owner and Manager of Hibiscus Heights, Mike Walmsley, said:
“Technology can offer excellent advantages and help reduce our carbon footprint; as an example, we installed wifi controlled remotes for all our air-conditioning units; this enables us to turn off the units when guests forget and leave on for the day, without having to go into the apartments. We can also reset the temperature any time from an app on the phone, even if we are not on the premises. The savings are a win-win.“
Jenna Reid of Top Catch Charters receives the 2023-2024 Blue Flag award with members from the Tobago Tourism Agency and Green T&TBoat Owner Dexter Black receives his Blue Flag plaque for the 2023-2024 season
Top Catch Charters boat operator Shivonne Peters and her team have been in the programme since 2021 and have this to say about their continued involvement and benefits derived:
“we have seen sustained and continued benefits from the Blue Flag programme in terms of the efficiency of our operations, our safety practices and in promoting sustainable practices for our guests and in our community. Our customer base continues to widen as more visitors seek sustainable tourism activities. Through the programme, we have been able to conduct environmental projects and collaborate with stakeholders to conserve Tobago’s marine environment”.
Second-time certified Miss Ayana Glass Bottom Boat operated by Dexter Black said:
“The management and crew of Miss Ayana are delighted to have our blue flag certification renewed for the year 2023/2024. We are excited and willing to operate in a sustainable and eco-friendly environment. The blue economy is vital for us as an island and nation, and we must preserve it for generations to come.”
As the National Operator for this programme in Trinidad and Tobago, Green T&T continues to collaborate with hospitality and tourism establishments across both islands to recognise and commemorate their existing sustainable initiatives through participation in the esteemed Green Key and Blue Glag programmes. CEO of Green T&T, Joanna Moses-Wothke, cited:
“Green T&T, as the National Operator for the programme in Trinidad and Tobago, actively seeks partnerships with beach management, boat operators, tourism, and hospitality properties across the Caribbean. We aim to identify and promote sustainable practices by participating in esteemed programmes such as Blue Flag and Green Key. Through collaborative efforts, we aspire to elevate the industry’s dedication to environmental stewardship and responsible tourism.”
Kaye and Stein Trotman of Native Abode accept the Green Key Award from Michelle Lewis of Green T&T and Kirsten Cowie-Irvine of TTAL.
The World Tourism Organisation designated World Tourism Day 2021 on September 27 as a day to focus on Tourism for Inclusive Growth, celebrating tourism’s power to create opportunities for everyone. The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited commemorated World Tourism Day this year with sustainability milestones borne out of collaboration with the island’s stakeholders, including two more Green Key awards and a coastal tree planting initiative. Last month, Native Abode and Adventure Eco Villa were awarded the internationally recognised Green Key eco-label. These two tourism accommodation properties, along with Bananaquit and Shepherd’s Inn (awarded in October 2020), are currently the only Green Key certified sites in the English-Speaking Caribbean. Green Key is an international voluntary eco-label awarded to tourism accommodations and other hospitality facilities that commit to sustainable business practices, and are helping to make a difference on an environmental level. This designation signals to tourists that these establishments adhere to strict criteria as stipulated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), empowering potential guests to help make a difference in regards to sustainability and environmental protection with their choice.
Owner and nanager of Adventure Eco Villas Ean Mackay is joined by a member of staff to accept the Green Key Award from Michelle Lewis of Green T&T and Kirsten Cowie-Irvine of TTAL.
The Tobago Tourism Agency Limited (TTAL) manages the execution of Green Key in Tobago in partnership with national programme coordinator Green T&T. Representatives of both organisations visited the winning properties on September 23 and 24 to deliver the well-earned awards to the property owners, and deliver heartfelt congratulations.
Ancil Dennis, Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly and Secretary of Tourism, Culture and Transportation, also extended his congratulations to the awardees stating: “I must commend the management and staff of both properties for the considerable work put into ensuring that they operate within the highest standards of environmental awareness, conservation and sustainability. Despite the myriad of challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, they have certainly persevered to increase the value of their offerings.
The awards came on the verge of World Tourism Day 2021 celebrations which has as its theme “Tourism for Inclusive Growth”.
TTAL partnered with environmental NGO Green T&T and local tourism stakeholders to initiate the LEAF (Learning About Forests) “plant a tree for peace” programme in Tobago on September 23 during the lead-up to World Tourism Day.
LEAF is an environmental education and conservation programme for school children in sustainable-minded destinations across the world, including Tobago. The tree planting initiative took place at two of Tobago’s three Blue Flag pilot beaches—Bloody Bay and the Mt Irvine.
Officials from TTAL’s Product Development and Destination Management team joined up with Green T&T, students from the Black Rock Government School, officials from the Division of Tourism, Culture and Transportation, and Captain Kirth from Top Catch High-Speed Catamaran to plant trees provided by the Division of Food Production, Forestry and Fisheries.
