We are pleased to announce that four prestigious hotels in Baku managed by Absheron Hotel Group (AHG) on behalf of Pasha Real Estate and two luxury hotels owned by Pasha Real Estate have successfully completed Green Key audits by SGS. These properties are the first in Azerbaijan to obtain Green Key certification, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
The hotels are JW Marriott Absheron Baku, The Ritz-Carlton Baku, Baku Marriott Hotel Boulevard, Courtyard Marriott, The Merchant, and Sheraton Intourist Hotel.
Green Key is a leading eco label awarded to hotels that meet strict criteria related to environmentally friendly practices, including climate change mitigation. By achieving this certification, AHG's hotels in Baku are setting a new standard for hospitality in Azerbaijan.
SGS has been approved by Green Key to conduct these certifications. With an experienced auditing team based in Baku, Azerbaijan, we were able to assist the six hotels throughout the certification process.
Green Key certification as a tool to achieve the UN SDGs in the hospitality industry
More than 6,000 hotels and other establishments in 70+ countries are Green Key certified.
This standard was developed and is maintained by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), which promotes excellence in the field of sustainable tourism. The FEE provides guidance to establishments, such as hotels, hostels, small accommodations, campsites, holiday parks, conference centers, restaurants and attractions, on how to contribute to the achievement of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations.
The Green Key certificate is built around a set of environmental criteria focusing on 13 different areas:
- Staff involvement
- Environmental management
- Guest information
- Water
- Energy
- Washing and cleaning
- Food and beverage
- Waste
- Administration
- Indoor environment
- Green areas
- Green activities
- Corporate social responsibility
A Green Key guarantees guests that by selecting a Green Key establishment, they are contributing to positive environmental impact. By staying committed to sustainability and responsible tourism practices, Green Key certified hotels are not only benefiting the environment but also attracting eco-conscious travelers who value green initiatives.
We are thrilled to see our hotels in Baku achieve Green Key certification through the audits by SGS, reflecting our unwavering dedication to sustainability and exceptional guest experiences. Achieving this during COP29 underscores our dedication to shaping a brighter, greener future. At Absheron Hotel Group, we are not just meeting today’s goals – we are paving the way for a more sustainable tomorrow.
We are grateful to AHG management for its invaluable contribution towards promoting sustainability culture in our country and have been delighted to assist in this remarkable effort.
Green Key certified hotels undergo annual audits to ensure they are meeting the high standards set by the certification program. This continuous improvement cycle allows hotels to stay competitive in an ever-changing market.
The Green Key certification of these hotels underscores the growing importance of sustainable practices in the hospitality industry in Azerbaijan. The completion of these Green Key audits marks a significant milestone and sets a positive example for other businesses in the region.
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,700 laboratories and business facilities across 119 countries, supported by a team of 99,250 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, safety and compliance.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and sustainability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH0002497458, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN:SW).
