GMCVB to offer hotel certification incentives with Green Key Global

The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) has become the first destination marketing organisation in the United States to provide incentives for the Green Key Global Eco-Rating certification for hotels. This groundbreaking initiative, supported by the Greater Miami Beaches and Hotel Association (GMBHA), offers GMCVB hotel members a 50% discount on Green Key’s Eco-Rating certification registration and audit costs.

“The destination experience in Greater Miami and Miami Beach continues to grow and mature,” said the GMBHA’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Wendy Kallergis. “We know that our hotel partners are always evaluating ways to improve their offerings and by demonstrating a commitment to sustainable operations and Green Key Global’s audit process, they can elevate the competitiveness of their brands while at the same time benefitting our local communities.”

“Hotels that take part in this programme can tap into the growing demand for sustainable travel options,” said David Whitaker, president and chief executive officer of the GMCVB. “According to Expedia’s 2022 Travel Trends Report, 90% of travellers actively seek out sustainable travel options, demonstrating the market opportunity for hotels that prioritise eco-friendly practises.”

“This initiative represents a significant first step towards creating a sustainable tourism ecosystem in the region,” said Anick Levesque, managing director of Green Key Global. “The GMCVB is providing a welcome incentive so that hotels are motivated to take the critical first step. This goes a long way in motivating the hospitality sector to review and optimise their sustainable practises.”

By partnering with Green Key Global, one of North America’s leading sustainability certification body for the hospitality industry, the GMCVB aims to empower local hoteliers to enhance their sustainability practises. This innovative collaboration not only positions Miami-Dade County as a frontrunner in sustainable tourism, it also provides hotels with valuable resources and recognition needed to attract environmentally conscious travellers and events.

Details of the special offer were shared at the recent GMCVB annual meeting and a recent Sustainable Partnership event hosted by the Greater Miami & The Beaches Hotel Association GMBHA and the GMCVB, where the vision for a planet-friendly future for Miami-Dade County’s hospitality sector was shared with local hotel leaders.

The GMCVB’s commitment to supporting sustainability in Greater Miami and Miami Beach’s tourism industry is underscored by this symbiotic partnership with Green Key Global, which provides hotel properties with the tools, resources and recognition needed to thrive in the current sustainable tourism market.

Key benefits of Green Key Global certification include:

·  Enhanced guest appeal:Certified hotels can expect increased bookings from sustainability-conscious travellers and event planners, as a significant portion of consumers prefer environmentally friendly lodging and event spaces.

·  Cost savings: Sustainable properties can typically experience up to 20% savings in resource efficiency according to the Sustainability Hospitality Alliance.

·  Elevated brand visibility: Certified hotels gain enhanced exposure on leading Online Travel Agency (OTA) platforms such as Expedia and Booking.com etc. through exclusive search option for sustainable properties giving them a competitive edge in the marketplace.

What participating hotels receive:

·  50% off certification and audit costs: As part of the GMCVB partnership, half the cost of Green Key Global’s certification and audit fees will be covered for eligible hotels.

·  Comprehensive support: Green Key Global provides tailored tools, templates and expert support to help hotels during their assessment journey, improve their sustainability efforts and promote their certification.