Da Nang, Viet Nam, 21 August 2026 – In a decisive move towards sustainable tourism, the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in collaboration with the Swiss Tourism for Sustainable Development (ST4SD) project, officially launched the “Da Nang Green Stay” criteria today at the HORECFEX 2026 event. The event was attended by over 100 delegates, including leaders from relevant travel and tourism authorities, as well as representatives from accommodation facilities and hotels across the city. Carrying the message “Together for Green Practices – Elevating the Destination,” this initiative marks a significant milestone in Da Nang’s strategy to become a premier green and responsible tourism hub.
Approved by the Chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee on 14 August 2026, the Da Nang Green Stay framework guides and encourages accommodation providers to adopt sustainable practices. Inspired by Switzerland’s renowned Swisstainable model, the framework is meticulously adapted to the practical conditions of Da Nang’s hospitality sector.
A Roadmap for Continuous Improvement
To ensure accessibility for all types of accommodations—ranging from micro-homestays to 5-star resorts – the framework encompasses 219 criteria across 9 operational categories, including Environment, Human Resources, Green Purchasing, and Sustainable Events. It provides a structured, flexible three-tier progression:
- Level 1 (54 criteria): Designed for accommodations taking their initial steps on the sustainability journey.
- Level 2 (124 criteria): Tailored for establishments with a solid foundation, ready to elevate their commitments.
- Level 3 (219 criteria): Aimed at industry leaders aiming to champion sustainability and international standards.
Dual Benefits: Economic Growth and Market Accessibility
Operating under the strategic orientation that “Greening is no longer an option, but a vital factor,” the Da Nang Green Stay program delivers substantial dual benefits. Participating businesses can significantly optimize operational costs by reducing electricity, water, and waste footprints through lean management systems. This enhanced visibility connects businesses directly with a rapidly growing demographic of eco-conscious global travelers, driving long-term competitive advantage.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Hoai An, Vice Director of Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, stated: Promoting and delivering the message of green transformation is not merely a responsibility, but an opportunity for businesses to cut costs, boost operational efficiency, elevate service quality, and strengthen competitiveness. This is the very essence of Da Nang Green Stay: ‘Green Operations – Cost Optimization.’ I firmly believe that with our collective effort, Da Nang Green Stay will evolve into a journey of authentic transformation, helping to elevate the service quality, competitive edge, and overall image of Da Nang’s tourism industry.”
“Switzerland is proud to share its strengths and practical experience from the Swisstainable model, world-class service quality goes hand in hand with environmental and community responsibility,” emphasized Mr. Andri Meier, Deputy Head of Cooperation, Embassy of Switzerland in Vietnam. “Da Nang’s pioneering adoption of this sustainable tourism management system not only underscores the city’s strategic vision but also sets a new benchmark for Vietnam’s tourism industry. We are confident that ‘Danang Green Stay’ will clearly demonstrate that green practices are the key to elevating destinations, driving economic growth for businesses, and securing a sustainable competitive advantage on the global tourism map.”
During the ceremony, a formal signing took place to pledge commitment to the Da Nang Green Tourist Accommodation Criteria. This milestone highlights the collaborative spirit of local accommodation providers joining hands with the city on the journey toward green and sustainable tourism development. The commitment was signed by three key representatives: the Da Nang Hotel Association, a representative of 4-star accommodations, and a representative for local homestays and villas.
Looking Ahead: Commitment to Action
The launch event successfully concluded with a formal signing ceremony, highlighting the collaborative spirit of local accommodation providers joining hands with the city on the journey toward green and sustainable tourism development. The commitment to the Da Nang Green Tourist Accommodation Criteria was signed by three key representatives: the Da Nang Hotel Association, a representative of 4-star accommodations, and a representative for local homestays and villas, all pledging to integrate these criteria into their daily operations.
Looking ahead, from September to December 2026, ST4SD and the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism will provide comprehensive training workshops and technical support to assist businesses in self-assessment, registration, and progressive upgrading towards international sustainability standards.
As a pioneer in this initiative, Da Nang is leading the way in sustainable tourism management. In the long term, this advanced and sustainable model is envisioned to be replicated across other provinces and cities in Vietnam, establishing a unified and nationwide framework for green tourism development.