By what date must all Best Western properties be Green Key certified?

According to Best Western's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, all Best Western properties must be Green Key certified by December 31, 2026. This requirement was approved on June 26, 2024, and is effective as soon as practical through implementation. Best Western will cover the initial Green Key virtual audit fee, which is currently $500, for audits conducted by December 31, 2026.

For properties already Green Key certified, Best Western will pay the virtual audit fee for the subsequent audit. However, if a property holds and maintains certification from another program recognized by the Global Sustainability Tourism Council, Best Western's Board of Directors will consider a waiver from the Green Key certification requirement.

This initiative indicates Best Western's commitment to environmental sustainability and may appeal to environmentally conscious travelers. Franchisees should factor in the time and resources required to achieve and maintain Green Key certification or an equivalent certification, as well as the potential for cost savings through Best Western's coverage of the initial audit fee. It is important to note that the Board of Directors has the authority to grant waivers for properties certified by other recognized programs, providing some flexibility for franchisees.