The Cape Grace, a Fairmont-managed hotel, in Cape Town has become the only hotel in South Africa to receive the globally recognised Green Key certification.

Green Key certification represents a standard of excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. Certified properties comply with strict criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

Olivier Granet and David Damiba, Managing Partners and co-CEOs of the hotel’s investment partner Kasada, said: “By achieving Green Key certification, Cape Grace not only sets a benchmark for sustainability for other hospitality establishments in South Africa but also demonstrates its dedication to preserving the environment for future generations. We remain committed to further enhancing the hotel’s sustainability performance year on year, which will benefit the environment and enhance the reputations of Cape Grace and Kasada as leaders in sustainability in South Africa and the wider continent.”

In its final summary and decision on Cape Grace, Green Key stated the establishment performed well in all criteria.

“The audit identified several key areas where the organisation is performing extremely well, including environmental management, waste management, plastic reduction, energy efficiency and water conservation. The establishment has made significant strides in achieving its environmental sustainability goals and has demonstrated compliance with Green Key for a Year 1 applicant.”

The Green Key evaluation process is conducted across the four pillars of sustainability: sustainable management as well as environmental, cultural and socio-economic impacts, which are confirmed by an independent third-party audit of hotel practices.

Green Key rigorously evaluates and audits businesses and establishments based on the FEE’s criteria, which are aligned to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These include critical areas such as effective energy use, water management, waste reduction and sustainability education and training.

Some key elements of Cape Grace's sustainability initiatives highlighted by Green Key include:

• Water and energy reduction
  The hotel has installed low-flow shower heads and dual-flush toilets and has a daily leak-checking protocol. It also uses a guest room management system, which automatically turns off a room’s electricity when it has been vacant for more than 30 minutes. These measures have significantly reduced water consumption and energy use, demonstrating Cape Grace's proactive approach to energy and water conservation.
• Sustainable education, training and practices
  Promoting sustainable practices is a cornerstone of hotel operations. Guests are encouraged to participate in reducing laundry loads, thereby conserving water and energy and minimising waste. Comprehensive sustainability training for staff ensures they are well-versed in eco-friendly practices. This training includes water and energy conservation techniques, waste reduction strategies and the importance of sourcing locally and seasonally. Staff members are also trained to educate and encourage guests to adopt these practices during their stays. By involving staff and guests in sustainability initiatives, Cape Grace creates a collaborative environment for sustainable practices.
• Plastic reduction and waste management
  Cape Grace is committed to reducing single-use plastic throughout the property. A full-time worker from Cape Grace’s partner, WastePlan, meticulously separates and colour codes all waste to maximise reuse. The hotel regularly receives rebates from WastePlan, highlighting the tangible benefits of their sustainable practices.