A practical programme to build and structure your hotel’s sustainability framework.
Why EcoCheck Fundmentals?
EcoCheck Fundamentals is Intertek Cristal’s proprietary sustainability programme designed to help hotels take structured, measurable first steps toward more responsible operations.
Built for practicality, the program focuses on operational improvements, and measurable outcomes - tailored for those at an earlier stage of their sustainability journey.
It provides hotels with a clear pathway to build internal awareness, implement best practices, and demonstrate sustainability commitment, while preparing for more advanced certifications in the future.
What is included in EcoCheck Fundamentals?
EcoCheck Fundamentals assesses sustainability performance across cross environmental, social, and operational practices of a property.
Our specialists combine independent assessment with practical, on-site guidance, identifying realistic improvements that strengthen sustainability implementation.
Certification is granted to properties achieving the required benchmark score and meeting audit conditions, evidencing effective sustainability management and operational implementation.
Certified properties are eligible for listing on our Intertek Cristal Safe Hotels Directory.
All assessments, audit findings, and corrective actions are managed through the eCristal platform, allowing teams to track progress, assign tasks, and monitor sustainability performance across properties.
How EcoCheck Fundamentals adds value.
- Clear understanding of current sustainability performance and operational gaps
- Practical, prioritised improvement actions tailored to your property
- Simple tools to track progress and engage teams across departments
- Vvisibility of performance across single or multiple properties
- Stronger coordination of sustainability efforts across departments
- Improved operational efficiency through targeted sustainability actions
- Enhanced reputation with guests through visible, credible initiatives
- Independent assessment of sustainability performance
- Better visibility on operational risks and improvement opportunities
- Support in strengthening brand positioning and long-term asset value
- Benchmarking across a portfolio of hotels
Who EcoCheck Fundamentals is for
EcoCheck Fundamentals is ideal for:
- Hotels at the early stages of their sustainability journey
- Properties without dedicated sustainability resources
- Operators looking for practical, easy-to-implement improvements
- Hotel groups seeking a consistent internal sustainability framework
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
EcoCheck Fundamentals standards are based on Intertek Cristal’s proprietary framework, informed by global best practices including the UN Global Compact Principles and key sustainability guidelines relevant to hospitality.
The timeline depends on the size and complexity of the property. Many hotels can complete the process within a few weeks.
Key stakeholders include sustainability or operations managers, department heads, procurement, facilities teams, and senior management to ensure all areas of operations are covered.
Yes, EcoCheck Fundamentals can be implemented across single properties or hotel groups, with benchmarking available at portfolio level.
EcoCheck Fundamentals demonstrates your sustainability commitment; however, OTA recognition typically requires GSTC certification or Recognised standard by GSTC.
EcoCheck Fundamentals can act as a stepping stone toward achieving this level.
No. EcoCheck Fundamentals is specifically designed for hotels starting out and does not require prior expertise or training programmes.
All actions, assessments, and audit results are managed through the eCristal digital platform, allowing teams to monitor progress, assign tasks, and generate reports at property or portfolio level.
Yes. While not a compliance programme, EcoCheck Fundamentals supports alignment with many environmental and operational regulations through its structured assessment.
EcoCheck Fundamentals covers key sustainability areas, including:
- Energy and water use
- Waste management
- Procurement practices
- Staff engagement
- Community interaction
- Equality, diversity, and inclusion
