Danhostel Ribe in Denmark, which has held the Green Key certification for over 18 years, has seen a steady increase in guests who are interested in the eco label, what it means and representing what it stands for. Using sustainable waste facilities and recyclable boxes is just the beginning.
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What’s a Green Key?
Green Key is an international eco-tourism label represented in more than 45 countries. The Green Key certification basically makes it easy for travellers to stay somewhere which benefits the planet, and gives them a comfortable stay at the same time – all the quality and facilities you’d expect from a hostel but with the feel good factor: Green Key hostels include introducing environmental management, reducing energy and water consumption, waste separation, using environmentally friendly detergents and cleaning agents, promoting organic products, avoiding chemical weed control products, and much more important stuff which goes on behind the scenes. Phew.
Unlocking eco dreams
Those at Danhostel Ribe have noticed, through comments from guests, that eco status has a growing influence on travellers in deciding where to stay. People recognise the environmental efforts establishments make and are happy they can do their part in making tourism more sustainable.
A silver wedding couple wrote in January 2015 on their Facebook page:
‘Thanks for a memorable and successful silver wedding and weekend at 17 and 18 January to the entire staff at Danhostel Ribe who made it possible. With your green key – we can only recommend your service for a festive stay … we all enjoyed your lovely hostel and hospitality.’
A Danish family in April 2015:
‘My 12-year-old granddaughter and I have enjoyed the stay and will gladly return, especially because it fits extremely well with our own lifestyle with organic and eco-thinking. Lovely with fridge / freezer. Good location overlooking the city and the meadow from our room.’
Another bonus? Danhostel Ribe is situated next to the national park Wadden Sea, meaning it’s the perfect place to enjoy the beautiful nature, effortlessly and responsibly.
National park neighbours
The Danish Wadden Sea National Park was awarded UNESCO world heritage status in June of last year, meaning it is considered to be outstanding in its universal value. A visit there will show you why – the largest unbroken series of tidal flats in the world is a breeding ground for migratory birds and a thronging pool of wildlife activity. Not only do Danhostel Ribe have Wadden Sea National Park as their next door neighbours, but they’re also National Park Partners, doing their bit to protect the area.
