One of the latest changes to the AHVV organic labeling system came into effect on January 1, 2025. The changes are intended to make organic hotels even clearer and more transparent, which not only promotes trust among guests but also further strengthens high standards in sustainability.
1. What is the AHVV organic label?
The AHVV organic label (AHVV stands for "working with a way of acting for a responsible and reliable future") is a certification system specifically developed for hotels that rely on organic products in their operations while maintaining sustainable and environmentally conscious management. The label allows guests to choose hotels that truly embrace ecological and social responsibility.
The criteria for the AHVV organic label include not only the use of organic food, but also the use of sustainable materials, the reduction of CO2 emissions, and the promotion of fair working conditions. It's a comprehensive seal of approval that assures guests that they are truly in good hands when choosing to stay at an organic hotel.
2. Who are affected by the changes in AHVV certification?
The AHVV organic label is primarily aimed at the German market, as it was specifically developed and used in Germany. It is aimed at hotels and other accommodation providers that want to demonstrate that they implement sustainable practices and integrate organic products into their operations.
However, similar certifications and sustainability standards exist in other countries that rely on similar principles, such as the "Green Key" certificate or the "EcoLabel" label in Europe. However, these are not directly linked to the AHVV organic label, but operate independently of each other.
3. The new update: What has changed?
The latest update to the AHVV organic labeling system introduces several important changes that are relevant for guests and hotel operators alike. Here are the key points to consider now:
Stricter criteria for organic food:
A key aspect of the update is that even stricter requirements are now being placed on the origin and processing of food. It's no longer enough to simply offer organic products – they must now also come from regional, seasonal, and sustainable production. This ensures that not only the quality of the food but also its ecological footprint is taken into account.Extended sustainability criteria:
In addition to catering, other areas of the hotel—such as energy consumption, water management, and waste management—must now also meet stricter criteria. Hotels wishing to qualify for the AHVV organic label must demonstrate that they are committed to sustainability in all areas of their operations. This could include, for example, the use of renewable energy or the implementation of a comprehensive waste separation system.
-
Increased focus on social responsibility:
Another new feature in the update concerns social standards. Hotels must now demonstrate not only that they operate in an environmentally friendly manner, but also that they offer fair working conditions and adequately compensate their employees. This also includes ensuring that hotels treat their employees transparently and contribute to job creation in the region. Improved transparency for guests:
Another important component of the update is increased communication and transparency. Guests should be even better informed about what goes on behind the scenes at an organic hotel. Hotels are now required to clearly display their certifications and measures on their websites and also make them accessible to guests on-site. This way, visitors can be sure that the hotels are actually implementing the promised sustainable practices.
4. Bronze, Silver and Gold Certificates: The Levels of AHVV Organic Labelling
The AHVV organic label is divided into different certification levels, each reflecting the degree to which a hotel implements sustainable practices. These levels – bronze, silver, and gold – provide guests with clear guidance and make it easier to decide which hotel best meets their sustainability requirements.
Bronze certificate (at least 20-49%)
Hotels receiving the Bronze certificate have met the basic requirements of the AHVV organic label. They already use organic products in their kitchens, practice basic waste separation, and have implemented initial measures to reduce energy consumption. The Bronze level is ideal for guests looking for a good and environmentally conscious hotel that is still in the process of expanding its sustainability measures.
Silver certificate (min. 50-89%)
Hotels with the Silver certificate go a step further and implement more comprehensive sustainability practices. In addition to organic food and environmentally conscious waste management, these hotels also exemplify the use of renewable energy, water conservation, and other resource-saving measures.
Gold certificate (at least 90-100%)
The Gold Certificate represents the highest accolade and recognizes hotels that have implemented exceptional sustainability measures in all areas of their operations. Gold-certified hotels focus on comprehensive sustainable management, covering all aspects of hotel operations – from the use of 100% organic and regional food to the full use of renewable energy, maximum resource conservation, and transparent, fair personnel policies. These hotels are true pioneers in the sustainable hotel industry.
5. The AHVV update on biohotels.de
At biohotels.de, we have taken the AHVV organic certificate update as an opportunity to adapt our organic certification criteria. Where hotels previously had the option to select at least 50%, at least 80%, or at least 100% organic content, we now follow the official guidelines of the AHVV GmbH.
From now on, our hotels have the option to choose the following organic ingredients:
- Bronze (min. 20-49%)
- Silver (min. 50-89%)
- Gold (min. 90-100%)
- 100% organic content
With this adjustment to our portal, we would like to align ourselves more closely with the German standard and offer hotel operators and guests full transparency.
Conclusion: What advantages does the new AHVV update bring for organic hotels and their guests?
For organic hotels, the new update to the AHVV organic label represents a further development towards even higher standards in sustainability. These innovations not only help gain guest trust but also help the hotels further expand their position as pioneers in an increasingly environmentally conscious tourism industry.
For guests, this means they can be even more confident that their stay at an organic hotel is truly environmentally friendly and socially responsible. The expanded criteria offer the advantage that when booking, you're not just choosing organic food, but staying in a comprehensively sustainable environment.
.png){kind=logo}