In commenting on this development, HAC President Tony Pollard stated, “HAC has continued to further expand the Green Key Program, and the development of the French website demonstrates our commitment to the bilingual market we operate in.”

“HAC will continue to further develop the Green Key website in both official languages and expand the resources and benefits for its many members,” explained Pollard. “The launch of the French website, as well as reinforcing the Green Key Program brand image in the French Market, ensures the program is truly national in scope and provides all our members with the same access to program information so that they can more readily understand the benefits of participation within the program.”

The HAC Green Key Eco-Rating Program is a graduated rating system designed to recognize hotels, motels and resorts that are committed to improving their environmental performance. Based on the results of a comprehensive environmental audit, hoteliers are awarded a one to five Green Key rating. Designed by hoteliers for hoteliers, the belief behind the program is simple; environmental leadership and responsibility makes business sense.

To date, there are over 600 lodging properties participating in the HAC’s Green Key Eco-Rating Program; more than double the number of participants from last year. These properties are emerging as true industry leaders at a time when the environment is one of the top concerns on the minds of Canadians.

The Green Key Eco-Rating Program continues to evolve as HAC engages in partnerships with various organizations, government agencies and lodging associations to ensure the Canadian Lodging industry becomes a leader in environment stewardship.