Environmental system

The Vakinn environmental system is, like the Vakinn quality system, based on a corresponding system with Qualmark in New Zealand. Stefán Gíslason M. Sc. and director of Environice oversaw the adaptation of the system to Icelandic conditions.

Surveys among international visitors to Iceland have for decades shown that Iceland´s main attraction is the country´s magnificent nature. It is our treasure which we must safeguard and keep intact for future generations. Linking environmental and social responsibility to quality as is done in the Vakinn system is therefore of utmost importance. With growing public awareness of environmental and social issues customers are placing increasing demands on companies to show responsibility and contribute to social and environmental causes. Customers vote with their feet and direct their business to companies that are doing well on this front.

One of Vakinn´s objectives is to get a majority of Icelandic tourism providers to engage in environmental and social issues and obtain an official recognition for their contribution in these matters. 

From January 1st 2019, all companies participating in Vakinn quality system must take part in the environmental system and fulfil the bronze criteria (now chapter 4 in general quality criteria) at a minimum.

Please note that it is not possible to apply for environmental grading exclusively since participation in the quality system is a prerequisite for environmental grading.

   Environmental certifications should be highly desirable for responsible companies and can be of considerable value in marketing. 

The environmental system is based on eight main categories:

1. Strategy and procedures
2. Classification of waste
3. Green accounting (measuring and monitoring)
4. Social responsibility 
5. Reduction and offsetting of greenhouse gas emissions