Two hotels earn International Eco Label Certification

Tourism minister Edward Zammit Lewis praised two local hotels that acquired an international Eco certification that recognises efforts to make hotel businesses more ecologically responsible.

The two hotels – the Le Meridien hotel and the Westin Dragonara, both part of the Starwood chain – earned the International Eco Label Certification for Hotels and Restaurants, titled The Green Key.

The Green Key rewards best practice, reducing energy waste, using sustainable products and raising environmental awareness.

“Tourism is a major driver of the Maltese economy, representing a high 29% of our Gross Domestic Product. Malta has been registering progressive growth in tourism year on year,” Zammit Lewis said.

“I commend both Westin Dragonara and Le Meridien for their achievement. I am aware that Westin Dragona is now also working to achieve the Blue Flag eco label for its private beaches for 2015.”

The Starwood chain is seeking to have all its hotels across the world certified as Green Key. It recognises that the Eco label is important in attracting high-end tourists – customers choose their holidays to reflect responsible behavior.

“Malta joins 45 other countries, including those in the Mediterranean region, boasting the Green Key eco label – all are attracting top-end tourists who choose their accommodation based on their liking to help the environment and advance eco tourism,” Zammit Lewis said.