Ecocert launches Sustainable Wellbeing Centre certification

The third-party certification recognises spas, beauty centres and fitness centres that are committed to a respectful environmental approach

France

By Wendy Golledge

11 October 2024

www.ecocert.com

Sustainability champion Ecocert has created a new certification aimed at spas and wellbeing facilities.

The Sustainable Wellbeing Centre certification is a third-party certification that recognises spa facilities committed to a respectful environmental approach with their products, services, equipment and facilities.

A French company, Ecocert has been supporting and promoting sustainable practices through certification, consulting and training for more than 30 years.

The new Sustainable Wellbeing Centre certification allows spa and wellness facilities to address the challenges of traceability, ethics and environmental protection.

woman from behind relaxing in a jacuzzi. — The Sustainable Wellbeing Centre certification aims to promote initiatives already underway and encourage new ones

Three sustainability challenges

To be eligible, spa and wellness facilities need to implement actions grouped under three main challenges.

Reduce environmental footprint through sustainable management of water, energy and waste.
Offer and use certified natural and/or organic products
Implement social criteria to ensure a healthy workplace for staff and quality services for customers.

The certification offers three levels. Level 1 includes requirements for all three main challenges.

To obtain certification levels two and three, facilities will be required to fulfil additional commitments. These can be chosen from a list of 30 suggestions that refer to specific sustainability issues.

“Many spa professionals are taking initiatives beneficial to the environment, but they don’t know how to promote their efforts out of fear of being accused of greenwashing. This new certification will enable them to better structure and promote their actions with a coherent, comprehensive approach.”

Barbara Pruvost

Manager and spa certification expert, Ecocert

An annual audit will be organised by Ecocert to verify compliance.

The certification is suitable for spas ranging from large hotel and resort facilities to smaller, independent offerings.

“Spas are increasingly attracting customers who are concerned about their environmental impact,” said Jenny Bessiere, director of development at Ecocert. “Guests are looking for a guarantee that services are being carried out with the greatest respect for the planet.

“Our aim is to create a global network of committed sustainability partners. The Sustainable Wellbeing Centre label is one of the most effective ways for spas to attest to their commitment to the planet and protecting our environments.”

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