Celebrating Sustainability: 90% of Tourist Stays in Destinations with a Slovenia Green Label

Together with the Slovenian Tourist Board (STO), we proudly presented 69 new Slovenia Green labels to deserving recipients on the occasion of the Green Day of Slovenian Tourism. Last year, 90% of all tourist overnight stays in Slovenia were made in destinations that were awarded the Slovenia Green label.

New Slovenia Green Certificate recipients.

The Green Day of Slovenian Tourism is a tribute to passionate tourism stakeholders and partners who have embraced sustainable development as their guiding principle. The festivities peaked with the grand presentation of plaques to the illustrious Slovenia Green label recipients, accompanied by an engaging educational program on sustainable practices. Bohinj and the Bohinj ECO Hotel, both esteemed members of the Slovenia Green scheme, played gracious hosts for the event. 

Dubravka Kalin, the Director-General of the Directorate for Tourism at the Ministry of Economic Development, Tourism, and Sports, wholeheartedly celebrated the green and sustainable direction embraced by Slovenia’s tourism industry. Delighted with the remarkable progress, Kalin stated, 

“This is a direction we have been following for several years, leading to the realization of our strategic vision: ‘Green Boutique. Smaller footprint. Greater value for all.’ One of the most prominent internationally recognized projects, receiving numerous accolades, is the Slovenia Green Scheme successfully led by the Slovenian Tourist Board. We are particularly pleased that an increasing number of tourist destinations and providers committed to continuously improving sustainability levels now proudly bear the Slovenia Green certificate. Destinations are evaluated based on the 84 global criteria of the Green Destination standard, and we are especially proud that five destinations have received the platinum Slovenia Green label. We sincerely congratulate the recipients and thank them for their contribution to the sustainable development of Slovenian tourism.”

Maja Pak highlighted the Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism as the focal point of all efforts in the field of sustainable development in tourism in the country.

Maja Pak, the Director of the Slovenian Tourist Board, emphasized the Slovenia Green Scheme as the focal point for all sustainability efforts in tourism throughout the country.

We are proud that all leading tourist destinations are now included in it. The quality of the Green Scheme is also recognized abroad, as the European Travel Commission has acknowledged it as the basis for developing sustainable guidelines for European destinations.

 

Tina H. Zakonjšek, the dedicated Coordinator of the Slovenia Green Consortium, emphasized the inseparable bond between tourism and the global environment, acknowledging that tourism’s challenges mirror those faced by humanity. The Slovenia Green Scheme serves as a powerful national tool, uniting stakeholders and local communities to promote responsible and sustainable development within the industry. 

Tina H. Zakonjšek, a dedicated coordinator of the Slovenia Green Consortium, emphasized the inextricable link between tourism and the global environment.

On the Green Day of Slovenian Tourism, plaques were awarded to:

• 16 destinations (Slovenia Green Destination),
• 41 accommodations (Slovenia Green Accommodation),
• 19 restaurants (Slovenia Green Cuisine),
• 5 attractions (Slovenia Green Attraction),
• 1 tourist agency (Slovenia Green Travel Agency),
• 1 beach (Slovenia Green Beach).

Along with the Slovenia Green labels, the title of best green coordinator was also awarded for the second time. This time the title was won by Nevenka Klun from the destination Kočevsko. 

As part of the Green Scheme, 288 Slovenia Green labels have been awarded so far in seven different categories. Today, it boasts the following signs:

• 60 destinations,

• 142 accommodation providers,

• 60 restaurants,

• 4 nature parks,

• 8 travel agencies,

• 12 attractions and

• 2 beaches.

Unlocking the Power of Sustainability: Slovenia Green Cycling Routes

The Slovenia Green cycling routes have also emerged as a catalyst for promoting sustainability, driving economic growth, and showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Slovenia. These routes, exclusively connecting Slovenia Green-certified destinations, exemplify the country’s commitment to eco-friendly mobility and carbon neutrality.

Slovenia Green cycling routes have also become a catalyst for promoting sustainability.

These cycling routes not only offer unforgettable experiences for outdoor enthusiasts but also serve as a platform to champion sustainable practices. By encouraging visitors to explore Slovenia on two wheels, the routes promote eco-friendly transportation alternatives and reduce carbon emissions. Each route aspires to be carbon neutral or takes significant steps towards achieving this goal, creating a positive environmental impact.

The economic benefits generated by the Slovenia Green cycling routes extend far and wide, fueling the growth of destinations and supporting local livelihoods. With more than 11,000 individuals having already embarked on these routes, a staggering 81% of them being foreigners, it is evident that Slovenia has become a sought-after cycling destination. As these visitors traverse the picturesque landscapes, they contribute significantly to the local economy, already injecting over €8 million into the country during their stay.

This fact, together with a large number of holders of the Slovenia Green label, shows the great importance of the Green Scheme, which has become a central program for the more responsible development of tourism in Slovenia.

Source: slovenia.info

Photo: Jošt Gantar