Why nature-certified hotels matter for sustainable travel

Because of growing worries about climate change, more people want to stay in places that are good for the planet. Travelers now look for hotels that share their ecological values.

• 53% of travelers are influenced by climate change news.
• 43% are willing to pay more for sustainable options.
• 74% demand more sustainable choices from companies.

Ecologically focused hotels help reduce our carbon footprint. They use systems to manage waste, energy, and water, further leading to a safe and ecologically preserved environment. Third-party certifications help avoid fake sustainability claims, adding trust and credibility. By choosing ecologically focused hotels, we also help local communities. Furthermore, choosing green hotels shows we care about the planet. It encourages companies to be more environmentally conscious. and together, we can make a big difference.

Understanding Booking.com’s sustainability filter

Booking.com has updated its green filter for 2024. Preferably, it focuses on real, ecologically oriented choices. The platform has stopped using its own green levels and now only uses third-party certifications. Booking.com works with BeCause to make sure only real nature-focused hotels are shown on searches.

Booking.com works with Sustonica, Green Key Global, and EarthCheck for sustainable certifications. Properties are verified through API links, keeping their green status up-to-date.

Certification costs vary from $100 to $3,000 a year. Booking.com helps small businesses by offering funding. This initiative helps more places become low-impact regions. Booking.com is making big strides in sustainable travel, and they focus on third-party certifications to ensure low-impact claims are true. This approach helps travelers trust the properties they book.

Step-by-step guide to using the sustainability filter

Now, finding nature-supportive places to stay is easier. The "Travel Sustainable" filter is in the left menu. It makes sure you get accurate and trustworthy options.

On any device, go to the filter section. Click "Travel Sustainable" to see certified places. Starting March 2024, only verified options will show up. Combine this filter with others like price, rating, or location. For example, add a budget filter to find cheap, sustainable stays. This feature makes finding what you want easier. Be aware that stricter rules might mean fewer options. However, you'll only see places that are truly sustainable. It's worth it to know that your stay contributes positively to the environment.

To spot Sustonica-validated vacation rentals, look for the Sustonica badge. This badge means the place follows strict sustainability standards. It's a reliable way to know that your stay is ecologically safe.

By following these steps, you can easily find places that match your low-impact goals. The updated filter system makes ecologically conscious travel easier than ever.

Key criteria for low-impact certified hotels on Booking.com

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council sets clear standards for ecologically supportive stays. These standards ensure that accommodations meet high sustainability levels. The framework focuses on five key areas: waste reduction, energy conservation, water efficiency, nature protection, and community support.

Energy conservation is key. Properties must use renewable energy for at least 50% of their needs. This cuts down on fossil fuel use and carbon emissions. Waste reduction is also crucial. Places often use composting and recycling.

Water efficiency is important too. Low-flow fixtures and greywater systems help save water. These steps reduce environmental impact. Nature protection involves preserving local ecosystems and biodiversity. Eco-certified places protect wildlife and habitats.

Community support is the last pillar. Properties must support local communities by hiring locals and preserving culture. This approach promotes social responsibility and economic growth. Every year, we renew certifications and conduct on-site checks to verify compliance with standards.

Tips for making the most of the sustainability filter

To make the most of the sustainability filter, combine it with manual checks. Start by looking at certification badges on hotel pages for clear information. Use the "sustainable stay" sort option to find hotels that are truly ecologically compatible. This feature shows hotels that meet global sustainability standards. It's a quick way to find sustainable accommodations.

Also, check certifications with TripAdvisor’s GreenLeaders program. This ensures the hotel's low-impact claims are reliable. Hotels with many certifications are usually more trustworthy.

• Combine filter use with manual verification of certification badges.
• Use the "sustainable stay" sort option for prioritized listings.
• Check property sustainability pages for detailed practice disclosures.
• Cross-reference with TripAdvisor’s GreenLeaders program.
• Leverage the certification funding assistance portal for smaller properties.

Booking.com's algorithm favors Level 3+ hotels in search results. These hotels meet high sustainability standards, perfect for ecologically conscious travelers. Always check the hotel's sustainability page for details on practices like reducing single-use plastic. By following these tips, you can make smart, low-impact choices. This supports green hotels and promotes responsible travel.