Newcastle hotel secures Green Key accreditation

A Newcastle hotel has achieved an internationally recognised sustainability accreditation following a series of environmental improvements.

The four-star Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel, which is directly opposite Newcastle United’s St James’ Park, has been awarded Green Key certification, recognising its commitment to reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainable tourism.

A dedicated sustainability task force has led a range of initiatives across the hotel, including installing water-saving devices, introducing refillable toiletries, reducing energy use through a centrally controlled heating system and replacing everyday items with more sustainable alternatives. 

Bird boxes have also been installed to encourage local wildlife despite the hotel’s city-centre location.

Katie Lowery, general manager of the 170-bedroomed hotel, said: “We have worked hard to become a more environmentally conscious hotel, and we all felt it was a key priority not just for guests but for us as a team. 

“Having a dedicated Green Key task force has helped us really zone in on areas where we could cover off both easier wins and longer-term aspirations to be greener. 

“Achieving the Green Key certification is something we’re very proud of. 

“We know it’s not easily gained, so that makes it all the more valuable. 

“But this is just the beginning – we look forward to finding new ways to save energy, waste and water and to improve our carbon footprint over the months ahead.”

Green Key is one of the world’s leading environmental certification programmes for the tourism sector, with businesses assessed against 150 sustainability criteria aligned to UN Tourism guidelines.

Managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, the scheme encourages continuous environmental improvement and recognises organisations that demonstrate high standards of sustainable operation.

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