Celebrating the extraordinary conversion of some of Helsinki’s most notable historic buildings to modern sustainable standards.
HELSINKI, FINLAND – Helsinki‘s newest urban sanctuary, The Hotel Maria announce that the Green Key jury granted the hotel with the coveted Green Key certificate at its first meeting in 2024. Green Key is the world’s leading sustainability program in the tourism sector. The Green Key certificate is recognition of commendable sustainability work, and its criteria meet the growing expectations of customers and partners regarding the sustainability of tourism services.
The Hotel Maria, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts‘ prestigious Legend Collection, has been committed to sustainability since its inception, and earning the Green Key certificate and meeting corresponding requirements have been longstanding goals. These requirements were considered for both the extensive renovation project of the historical property and the development of the entire property’s concept. This determined effort and dedication was rewarded when the recognition was received just two months after the hotel’s opening.
“All of our buildings are protected by the Heritage Agency of Finland, and our journey parallels that of our namesake, Grand Duchess Maria Feodorovna, a renowned and beloved royal figure who sought peace of mind in Finland during challenging times and served as a great unifier beyond borders,” said The Hotel Maria’s General Manager Katriina Moksi. “We aspire to provide the same tranquility and sanctuary to all who grace our doors, offering our guests a taste of the pure beauty of Finland, leaving them renewed and inspired – naturally.”
Junior Spa Suite.
The criteria for the Green Key certificates are based on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and include requirements for reducing environmental impact, increasing social benefits, and supporting the local economy. The Hotel Maria has recognized that significant impacts can be achieved not only through its own operations but also by extending sustainability to its partners.
“We enjoy actively promoting sustainability together with our partners,” continues Moksi. “In selecting partners and making purchases, we always consider various aspects of sustainability, and we are pleased to be generating an increased demand for high-quality, sustainably produced local goods and services in Finland.” In the hotel’s two restaurants, the commitment to sustainable small producers and the origin of products are concretely visible on customers’ plates with wild fish coming from local fishermen, and reindeer meat from a contract farm in Sodankylä in Finnish Lapland.
The hotel is equally dedicated to minimizing environmental impact and embracing social responsibility with energy-efficient lighting, cutting-edge climate control, and renewable energy sources to create an eco-conscious haven. Recycling programs and partnerships with local artisans contribute to a sustainable future. Transparent practices, continuous improvement, and guest engagement drive this exceptional sustainable journey at The Hotel Maria.
As part of the Green Key sustainability program, The Hotel Maria commits to the continuous development of its operations and reports on this in conjunction with its annual renewal application. The Hotel Maria will continue to develop new practices, involve staff, and guide customers towards sustainable choices in the future. The quality of operations is verified through regular, on-site audits.
The Green Key certificate is approved by the Sustainable Travel Finland program and is managed by the international Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). In Finland, Green Key is represented by FEE Finland’s socially owned company, Going Green Oy.
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