HOTELS AND EVENT VENUES WITH THE GREEN KEY ECO-LABEL IN TALLINN
Recently, there has been an increase in event organisers who are actively looking for opportunities to reduce the ecological footprint of their events by organising them in an environmentally friendly way. One of the easiest ways to accomplish this is to choose a conference hotel or venue carrying the Green Key eco-label. These establishments pay close attention to reducing their environmental impact and take care to ensure a sustainable use of resources, waste management and local, eco-friendly food. Several venues have also developed guides for organising eco-friendly events. So if you’re looking for a high-end Green Key event venue in Tallinn, we’re here to help!
Green Key launched in Denmark in 1994 and has since become the leading international standard for recognising environmental responsibility and sustainability in the tourism industry. To date, over 4000 establishments from 60 countries around the world have joined the label.
Of our members, the following sustainable venues and conference hotels have been awarded the Green Key label:
Cruise Terminal
The Old City Harbour Cruise Terminal was awarded the Green Key eco-label just this summer. The eco-label assures passengers, guests, and partners visiting events at the cruise terminal that the terminal operates in an environmentally sustainable manner. The cruise terminal produces its own electricity from solar panels and, if necessary, covers any missing energy by purchasing green electricity. The terminal’s heating and cooling systems operate on marine energy, and the terminal uses LED lighting, demand-controlled (with CO2 and temperature sensors) ventilation systems, natural smoke extraction systems and water-saving sanitary ware. To minimise the environmental footprint of events, decorations, inventory (including souvenirs and gifts), waste management and catering are in line with circular economy principles. The cruise terminal also encourages partners, tenants, and guests to organise their events according to the Green Key criteria or in compliance with the principles of the Green Key programme.
Check out their Guide to organising environmentally friendly events at the cruise terminal
Alexela Concert Hall
The Alexela Concert Hall is fully committed to combining entertainment and environmental sustainability, believing that the two can coexist in harmony. The company is dedicated to reducing their ecological footprint and adheres to an environmental management system that includes several ecologically sustainable measures.
The Concert Hall uses environmentally friendly technologies, conscientiously sorts all produced waste, uses local produce, and pays great attention to reasonable energy consumption. To reduce food waste and their ecological footprints, visitors are encouraged to pre-order their food online for concert intermissions and use electronic tickets.
To increase environmental awareness, a €1.00 service charge is added to all ticket prices and invested in environmentally sustainable development. The company emphasises that achieving environmental sustainability requires informed choices from both them and their visitors and are proud of the Green Key label they were awarded in 2018.
Read more about their Green Key vision here: Alexela Concert Hall’s Green Key
Tallinn Creative Hub
Tallinn Creative Hub, the most popular event venue in the city, was declared worthy of the Green Key eco-label this spring. For guests at the Creative Hub, the Green Key is a sign that the organisation is consciously and successfully operating in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner to reduce the negative environmental impact of their activities – from waste management to a more economical and sustainable use of resources (electricity, water, inventory, food). Even the Creative Hub building itself is a sustainable solution – an old industrial building has been converted into a contemporary event and creative centre.
The Creative Hub has prepared specific event guidelines in order to reduce the ecological footprint of events and promote sustainable behaviour. Event organisers are advised on the use of resources, food, drinks, and waste management. In addition, the Creative Hub encourages organisers to cooperate with local communities and value Estonia’s cultural heritage. More information can be found here: Tallinn Creative Hub’s Green Key eco-label.
PROTO Invention Factory
The PROTO Invention Factory’s contribution to environmental sustainability was recognised with the Green Key label this autumn. PROTO has implemented several measures to become fully environmentally friendly, including reducing waste, increasing energy efficiency and introducing eco-friendly products. Estonian products are always preferred in the PROTO Invention Factory. Their exhibits are locally sourced to make the journey from idea to execution short and resource-efficient. A simple principle applies to PROTO catering; the food in the café and at events is largely locally produced, varied, organic and healthy. The menu has delicious options for vegetarians too! In addition, the PROTO Invention Factory has taken a hard stance against chemical cleaning products as well as air pollutants, fertilisers and pesticides.
The PROTO environmental programme seeks to educate, raise awareness of environmental issues and inspire through example.
For more information on the PROTO Invention Factory’s environmental certification and its sustainable journey, visit the website Sustainability at the PROTO Invention Factory
Radisson Blu Hotel Olümpia
Radisson Blu Hotel Olümpia has proudly held the Green Key label since 2012.
Environmental sustainability is very important to the hotel, which is why various measures are implemented in the day-to-day work of the hotel to reduce the energy use of heating, ventilation, cooling, and electrical equipment, as well as the amount of water running from showers and taps. Hotel guests staying for a longer period are given the opportunity to opt out of daily housekeeping and to reuse towels, which allows the hotel to contribute to the collection of safe drinking water for children in areas where drinking water is difficult to access or polluted (the Just a Drop programme).
Since 2017, Radisson Blu Hotel Olümpia has offered Carbon Neutral Meetings that aim to reduce customers’ carbon footprints. The Radisson Hotel Group automatically offsets the carbon footprint of every meeting and event taking place at their hotels worldwide, at no cost to the attendees. The CO2 footprint offsetting is carried out in partnership with First Climate, one of the largest carbon-offsetting organisations in the world, which supports projects that combat climate change and have a positive impact on sustainable development. All selected projects are Gold Standard or Verified Carbon Standard certified. Read more here: Carbon Neutral Meetings
Radisson Blu Hotel Olümpia is not only limited to operating within the hotel walls, but also takes it a step further by actively caring about its community. They regularly donate items forgotten by guests to the Red Cross, support the Bethel’s Centre of Pastoral Care, help the children of SOS Children’s Village, and participate in projects by the Tartu University Hospital Children’s Foundation. In addition, the hotel staff annually support animal shelters. Radisson Blu Hotel Olümpia is also involved in helping Ukraine by collecting essential items such as children’s clothing and hygiene supplies and donating the hotel’s blankets and pillows to those in need.
The team at Radisson Blu Hotel Olümpia believes that change starts within each one of us, and that the small steps we all take can bring big changes both locally and internationally.
Radisson Blu Hotel Olümpia is a true role model when it comes to responsible business management and supporting the community. They show that the hospitality industry can not only be environmentally friendly, but also be beneficial to society through being actively involved in charities and relief projects. All hotel employees undergo Responsible Business training, which includes information about the Green Key label. Read more here: Radisson Hotel Group’s Responsible Business
Original Sokos Hotel Viru
The Sokos Hotels chain is known for its deep commitment to an environmentally sustainable approach. All Sokos Hotel hotels, including Original Sokos Hotel Viru, are members of the Green Key environmental programme, which encourages the daily development of environmentally sustainable activities.
Over the years, Sokos Hotels has made significant progress in reducing food waste, stopping the use of single-use plastics, and improving energy efficiency. In restaurants, preference is given to local food, which is beneficial to both the environment and the local economy. The hotel chain actively cooperates with local companies to ensure sustainability.
One of the most important goals of Sokos Hotels is to become carbon negative by 2025. Recently, Original Sokos Hotel Viru has also implemented several eco-friendly innovations, such as offering daily housekeeping only upon pre-order and turning the mini-bars in rooms into freezer-free refrigerators.
A full list of the hotel’s environmental activities can be found at Sokos Hotels’ Green Key
Swissôtel Tallinn
Swissôtel Tallinn, the tallest building in the city centre, is a Green Key certified hotel with sustainable hospitality. The strong commitment to environmentally friendly activities has earned them the prestigious international eco-label Green Key, showing their dedication to sustainability. By choosing Swissôtel, all hotel customers join the mission to protect the environment, all while enjoying a highly valued and comfortable accommodation experience.
In addition to the hotel’s efforts to reduce water and energy consumption, minimise plastic waste and support charities, their Net Zero Carbon Calculator provides companies the opportunity to calculate their emissions and plan their environmental footprint. This gives organisations the chance to accelerate their journey towards net zero carbon emissions and promote a more sustainable future. For example, companies and customers can use the innovative tool to calculate the ecological footprint of their overnight stays or events, or to directly purchase carbon credits.
Swissôtel Tallinn has made it their goal to actively contribute to the environment and sustainability, adhering to the Green Key standards and minimising their ecological impact. Staying at the Swissôtel Tallinn is more than just an extraordinary experience – it’s a conscious choice to support an environmentally friendly way of thinking where a high-quality hotel experience is carefully intertwined with environmental awareness.
Park Inn by Radisson Meriton Conference & Spa Hotel Tallinn
We are pleased to announce that the Park Inn Meriton places great emphasis on corporate responsibility and sustainability. Park Inn Meriton has proudly held the Green Key label since 2016. The Green Key eco-label recognises the accommodation company’s environmentally friendly activities. The hotel is also certified by the Safehotels Alliance AB Global Hotel Security.
These are important principles that not only help achieve the success of the company, but also positively influence people and the environment. The company’s commitment to ethical business practices is appreciated, as it builds trust among both clients and investors. Corporate responsibility also means taking care of the welfare and rights of employees, which in turn increases the satisfaction and productivity of team members.
Being connected to the local community is also important, as it helps ensure a positive impact on locals by contributing to creating better living conditions and opportunities. It also enhances the company’s reputation and can lead to a loyal customer base. In addition, environmental awareness is extremely important, especially in the hotel sector. Sustainable management helps reduce the ecological footprint and can even reduce costs. It also meets the growing demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable options.
Since 2017, Park Inn Meriton offers Carbon Neutral Meetings that aim to reduce customers’ carbon footprints. The CO2 footprint offsetting is carried out in partnership with First Climate, one of the largest carbon-offsetting organisations in the world, which supports projects that combat climate change and have a positive impact on sustainable development. All selected projects are Gold Standard or Verified Carbon Standard certified. Read more here: Carbon Neutral Meetings
Green housekeeping not only benefits the environment, but also promotes a healthier and more sustainable living or working environment for residents. It’s an important approach, especially in the context of sustainable and environmentally conscious living and business practices.
The main principles and practices of Park Inn Meriton’s green housekeeping, which were implemented in the beginning of 2023, include Green Housekeeping (donation to the Just a Drop programme) and Towel reuse (donation to the Just a Drop programme). Read more about these programmes here: Corporate responsibility
Radisson Collection Hotel, Tallinn
Radisson Collection Hotel, Tallinn is a great example of an environmentally friendly operation where numerous measures have been introduced to reduce the environmental footprint and increase sustainability.
As an eco-friendly measure, energy-efficient LED lights are used in rooms instead of halogen lamps. The floors of corridors and conference rooms are covered with an embossed carpet made of recycled fishing nets. Double-sided printing is preferred, but printing is avoided altogether whenever possible. The food served in restaurants is mainly made from local raw materials and food waste is minimised.
Since 2017, Radisson Collection Hotel, Tallinn offers Carbon Neutral Meetings that aim to reduce customers’ carbon footprints. The CO2 footprint offsetting is carried out in partnership with First Climate, one of the largest carbon-offsetting organisations in the world, which supports projects that combat climate change and have a positive impact on sustainable development. More information about the Carbon Neutral Meetings programme can be found on the official website of the Radisson Hotel Group: Carbon Neutral Meetings
In addition, the hotel has launched the Green Housekeeping programme, which involves guests in the preservation of the Estonian natural environment by creating an opportunity to forgo daily room cleaning. Guests also can contribute to the Just a Drop programme by reusing bathroom towels. The aim of this international project is to provide safe drinking water for children in areas where clean water it is difficult to access or polluted.
Charity is an important part of environmentally friendly activities, and the hotel makes sure to support the children of SOS Children’s Village with interest scholarships. They also support the My Dream Day charity foundation, which grants the wishes of seriously and chronically ill children, as offering mental health support to both children and parents is an important part of the treatment process.
The Radisson Collection Hotel in Tallinn has been awarded the Green Key eco-label, signifying the company’s continued commitment to environmental sustainability.
Tallink Hotels
Tallink Hotels cares about the environment through incorporating the principles of sustainable development in its daily activities. In recognition of this, all Tallink hotels have now been certified with the Green Key eco-label – definitely the place to be if you’re looking for a Green Key hotel in Tallinn.
Tallink hotels focus on environmental sustainability on a daily basis and in all activities. Their hotels and restaurants are increasingly preferring local produce to shorten the supply chain, and purchase eco-label, environmentally friendly products. Emphasis is also placed on sorting waste by type, and by joining Ringo’s packaging recycling system they contribute to reducing the amount of packaging waste. In addition, Tallink Hotels has collaborated with fashion designer Xenia Joost, who used old hotel bed sheets to design her collection, thereby creating sustainable fashion.
Their ecological footprint is also minimised by reducing the use of paper. For example, their key card holders have been swapped out for small stickers. In the rooms, disposable bathroom cosmetics have been replaced with large refillable bottles, and rooms are cleaned every second day, although they suggest that guests forgo housekeeping altogether, if possible. Guests are also involved with other eco-friendly activities, as they’re encouraged to save water, energy and food, for example by asking guests to place a reasonable amount of food on their plates during breakfast. Stairs instead of elevators and eco-friendly transport to get around the city are just a few of the green alternatives outlined on their website.
More information about Tallink Hotels’ sustainable development activities can be found here: Tallink Hotels’ corporate social responsibility
Nordic Hotel Forum
Nordic Hotel Forum proudly bears the Green Key eco-label, a distinction it has held since 2010, reflecting its steadfast commitment to environmentally friendly operations. This commitment is evident in its daily practices, ranging from efficient waste management, use of LED lamps, water-saving fixtures, to energy-conserving kitchen appliances. The hotel’s recent renovation enabled the incorporation of eco-friendly technology and innovative solutions, elevating its sustainability efforts. The building’s digital management system seamlessly oversees the energy, lighting, and heating.
Guests play an integral role in the hotel’s green initiatives. They can opt for daily housekeeping, and most rooms offer refillable toiletry dispensers. The breakfast area promotes waste reduction with smaller plates, encouraging guests to serve only what they can consume. Additionally, the hotel has pioneered a paperless and contactless self-service, enabling guests to manage their entire stay, from check-in to check-out, using smart devices.
A unique eco-friendly feature of the Nordic Hotel Forum is its rooftop beehives. Home to over 360,000 bees, these hives not only produce delectable honey but also contribute to the pollination and vitality of Tallinn’s green spaces.
Reinforcing its sustainable ethos, the hotel was the first in Estonia to achieve the BREEAM In-Use certificate, an international recognition for sustainability in real estate. The Green Key eco-label further attests to the hotel’s harmonious blend of quality, comfort, and eco-friendly management.
For more insights into the hotel’s commendable environmental endeavors, visit Nordic Hotel Forum’s corporate responsibility page
Vihula Manor
Vihula Manor has proudly held the Green Key eco-label since 2011, signifying their environmentally sustainable activities. On a daily basis, they measure their energy and water consumption, take care of waste management, keep their buildings warm with geothermal heating and produce electricity with solar panels. Vihula Manor also takes measures to reduce water consumption and invites their guests to save water during washing. The manor even has its own garden and greenhouse, where herbs and fresh garden produce are grown, which then find use in their kitchen and delight the guests. To further raise awareness among their guests and to introduce the nature-friendly initiatives of the manor, Vihula Manor annually organises an educational Green Day.
Additional information:
- The city of Tallinn has created a guide to organising environmentally friendly events that outlines the minimum requirements and recommendations for organising eco-friendly events, helping organisers of conferences and cultural and sports events make more sustainable choices. Sustainable event management principles include reducing waste, recycling, supporting local culture and making environmentally friendly choices in catering and transport.
- A list of companies awarded with the Green Key eco-label are available on the Visit Estonia website: Estonian companies with the Green Key label
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