Criteria & checklist

On this page you can access the environmental criteria for silver and gold certification and other supporting materials related to the environmental part of Vakinn.

Regular Review of the Quality and Environmental Criteria

Since Vakinn was launched in 2012, the quality and environmental criteria have been reviewed regularly in consultation with various experts and stakeholders within the tourism sector. The current version of the criteria entered into force on 1 January 2022. 

In connection with the government’s action plan and tourism policy through 2030, a working group has been appointed to review quality and environmental certification for Icelandic tourism, including with reference to the development of Vakinn.

While this important work is ongoing, and until the results are available, the revision of the criteria (6th edition) has been put on hold and the validity of the 5th edition has been extended.

Please do not hesitate to contact us at vakinn@vakinn.is if further information is required.

Checklist and supporting materials

The environmental criteria are accompanied by a checklist which helps to analyse the company´s position on its path towards sustainable tourism.  The checklist provides guidance of the company's present position, what could be improved, as well as serving as a basis for an action plan. Other supporting materials are also enclosed with the criteria, such as monitoring forms, useful advice and suggestions for the company´s declaration of responsible and sustainable tourism.

The checklist needs to be filled out thoroughly and submitted to a certification body. It is important to read and follow the instructions in the foreword.

Monitoring forms for hot water usage, electricity use, waste classification and fuel consumption are available in Icelandic.

Please note that it is not possible to apply only for Vakinn's environmental certification.