Slovenia Champions Sustainable Tourism with 50 New Green Labels

Slovenia is setting a remarkable example in the realm of sustainable tourism by recently awarding 50 Slovenia Green labels. This strategic initiative enhances the national certification program aimed at promoting environmentally friendly practices across the country. By recognizing various tourism destinations and providers committed to principles such as environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and community engagement, Slovenia is reinforcing its resolve to offer authentic, responsible travel experiences for discerning travelers. This initiative not only caters to eco-conscious tourists but also establishes a new benchmark for sustainability within European tourism.

Bolstering its Role as a Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination

During the recently celebrated The Green Day of Slovenian Tourism, the Slovenian Tourist Board introduced an impressive total of 50 Slovenia Green labels. This milestone underscores Slovenia’s unyielding commitment to promoting sustainable tourism practices that benefit both the environment and local communities. The awards were given to various destinations and tourism providers that exemplified best practices in environmental and social responsibility.

Among the recognitions, 22 destinations achieved renewal of their certifications, while an additional 28 tourism providers earned their Slovenia Green labels for the first time. The national program has now established connections between 53 destinations and over 230 tourism providers, spanning accommodations, restaurants, attractions, congress centers, natural parks, beaches, and other pivotal services. This comprehensive network serves as the foundation for Slovenia’s strategic vision for sustainable tourism development.

The Green Day of Slovenian Tourism is an annual gathering that unites industry leaders, sustainability advocates, policymakers, media personnel, and tourism professionals. The 2026 edition placed a significant focus on sustainability communication, a vital discussion aimed at effectively presenting eco-friendly initiatives in authentic and transparent ways.

During the event, Slovenia Green labels were awarded in several categories, including:

• Platinum certifications for five destinations
• Gold certifications for ten destinations
• Silver certifications for six destinations
• Bronze certification for one destination

The Slovenia Green Scheme encompasses a diverse range of participants, from destinations and accommodation providers to restaurants, congress centers, and attractions. This program aims to foster tourism experiences that prioritize nature conservation, the well-being of local communities, and the preservation of cultural heritage, ultimately aligning with Slovenia’s commitment to boutique tourism positioning.

Doris Urbančič Windisch, Head of the Tourism Business Environment Sector at Slovenia’s Ministry of the Economy, Tourism and Sport, emphasized the nation’s vision encapsulated in the 2022–2028 tourism strategy, which focuses on sustainable growth. The event also honored Ana Ponikvar from Brežice with the Best Green Coordinator award, acknowledging her significant contributions to attaining a platinum Slovenia Green label in her region.

The keynote address was delivered by Xavier Font, a noted expert in sustainable tourism and marketing, who provided insights into how sustainable destination management can enrich visitor experiences, drive repeat visits, and enhance regional competitiveness.

A thought-provoking panel discussion, titled “Say Green, Say It Honestly”, explored best practices in sustainability communication, emphasizing collaboration among tourism businesses, employees, local communities, and visitors. As part of the conference, Klemen Malovrh, Director of Kranj Tourism, announced that Kranj would host the upcoming international Green Destinations Conference 2026 in October.

This year’s Slovenian Tourism Green Day also coincided with the TTRA Europe Conference in Portorož, facilitating collaboration between academia, tourism businesses, and policy organizations from across Europe.

Additionally, Slovenian journalists participated in a study tour that provided firsthand insights into remarkable sustainable destinations such as:

• Idrija
• Cerkno
• Škofja Loka
• Poljane Valley
• Kranj

These experiences highlighted the integration of sustainability with UNESCO heritage sites through various initiatives, including:

• UNESCO Global Geopark Idrija
• Divje Babe Archaeological Park

Certified destinations in Slovenia that received the green labels include:

• Platinum Slovenia Green Labels: Ljubljana, Brežice, Laško, Kranj, Velenje
• Gold Certifications: Kamnik, Krško, Cerkno, Miren Kras, Celje, Radlje ob Dravi, Idrija, Moravske Toplice, Slovenj Gradec
• Silver Certifications: Bela Krajina, Žalec, Šmarje pri Jelšah, Portorož–Piran, Kranjska Gora, Ankaran Peninsula, Žirovnica
• Bronze Certification: Kostanjevica na Krki

In addition, several accommodation providers, restaurants, congress venues, and unique attractions were certified for their commitment to sustainability. Recognized accommodation providers include:

• Bernik Apartments & Rooms
• Pri Martinovih Tourist Farm
• Boutique Hotel Portorose
• Hotel Leonardo
• The Hotel Ljubljana
• Ribno Alpine Resort
• Hotel Maestoso

Restaurants recognized for their sustainable practices include:

• Klub Mc Brežice
• Restavracija Milka
• Gostilna Zeleni rob
• Gostilna and Hotel Kunst
• Gostilna Repolusk

Moreover, certified congress venues include:

• Bled Festival Hall
• Brdo Congress Centre

Attractions and special sites include:

• Slovenian Hop-Growing and Brewing Eco-Museum
• Penine Istenič Information and Interpretation Centre
• Vila Bianca
• Tunnels Beneath Old Kranj

Slovenia’s robust expansion of the Slovenia Green Scheme not only highlights its continued commitment to sustainable tourism but also promotes the rich local culture, heritage, and nature-based experiences. As a leader in eco-conscious travel in Europe, Slovenia is paving the way for future developments in responsible tourism on a global scale.

Source: The post Slovenia Sets a New Standard in Sustainable Tourism by Awarding 50 Slovenia Green Labels Boosting Eco-Friendly Destinations, Tourism Providers, and National Certification Across the Country first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.

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