The first sustainability certified hotel chain in Iceland

The achievement was celebrated with a gathering at Fosshótel Reykjavík, including leaders from the Icelandic tourism industry and the sustainability sector, as well as at our hotels across the country. The certification confirms Íslandshótel's leading role in sustainability and the company's commitment to setting new standards within the industry.

Setting new standards in sustainability
Davíð Torfi Ólafsson, CEO of Íslandshótel, confirmed the company’s commitment to sustainability and emphasized that the company’s goal has always been clear: to be a leader in sustainability and set new standards for Icelandic tourism. He pointed out that the Green Key certification reflects the significant work and ambition of Íslandshótel’s staff, and he hopes it will serve as motivation for other companies

A passion for a better future
Erna Dís Ingólfsdóttir, Chief of HR and Sustainability Officer, underscored the importance of teamwork in achieving this milestone. She acknowledged the immense effort, passion, and commitment of Íslandshótel’s employees, highlighting that the success truly belongs to them. According to Erna, sustainability has always been central to the vision shared by the owners, board, and management, driving the company to continue pushing for greater achievements.

Inspiring industry change
Katrín Bryndísardóttir, Business Manager at Tún Certification Office, stated that the collaboration with Íslandshótel has been extremely enjoyable. She added that the professionalism, knowledge, and commitment demonstrated by the employees towards this important project have been significant and a motivation for a sustainable future in this sector in Iceland.

Leading with global initiatives
Erna Dís also spoke about Íslandshótel's broader achievements in sustainability. In addition to the Green Key certification, the company is proud to be the first Icelandic tourism business to sign the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism. Íslandshótel is also in the final stages of receiving the Rainbow Certification from Samtökin 78 and has been selected to participate in a global initiative with the UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) and Oxford SDG Impact Lab (Sustainable Development Goals) to develop the first international ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework for tourism.