Da Nang unveils green stay criteria for tourist accommodation facilities
VOV.VN - The Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in collaboration with the Swiss Tourism for Sustainable Development in Vietnam project, on August 21 launched the Da Nang Green Stay criteria for tourist accommodation establishments, under the theme of ensuring green practices and elevating destinations.
The criteria draw on experience from the Swiss sustainable tourism development model, Swisstainable, while incorporating elements of the former Quang Nam Green Tourism criteria and referencing standards developed by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.
The framework is designed as a practical tool to encourage accommodation businesses to voluntarily adopt green practices tailored to their operating conditions. It aims to help businesses improve service quality, reduce operating costs and establish a foundation for the gradual development of green tourism criteria across other segments of the tourism industry.
The initiative is also expected to contribute to a comprehensive green tourism standards system and strengthen Da Nang’s position as a high-quality, sustainable and environmentally responsible destination.
The Da Nang Green Stay framework comprises 219 criteria across nine categories, covering areas including environmental management, human resources and training, green procurement, maintenance, housekeeping and laundry, landscaping, kitchen and restaurant operations, experiential programmes, promotion of local culture and businesses, and sustainable events.
The initiative highlights the benefits of sustainable practices for both tourism businesses and the destination. Participating accommodation establishments can reduce operating expenses related to electricity, water and waste management, as well as enhancing their brand image and competitiveness. The programme also seeks to help businesses meet the growing demand from a new generation of travelers who value responsible and sustainable tourism.
Through December 2026, the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism will work with the Swiss Tourism for Sustainable Development in Vietnam project to organise workshops, training programmes and hands-on sessions to help accommodation businesses implement the criteria.
The department will also develop and publish a handbook, infographics and instructional videos to support businesses in conducting self-assessments, registering for the programme and progressively upgrading their green operating practices toward international standards.
At the launch ceremony, representatives of the Da Nang Hotel Association and accommodation establishments across different market segments, including five-star resorts, three- and four-star hotels, homestays and villas, signed commitments to cooperate in implementing and integrating green practices into their operation.