At Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna Kouvola, we are committed to taking environmental well-being into account in our operations.

What is Green Key?

What is STF?

How does sustainability show in our operations?

We strive to continuously improve our sustainability practices, and here are a few examples of how sustainability is reflected in our operations:

• We actively recommend local services to our customers, including local restaurants, museums, theaters, Tykkimäki amusement park, nature trails, Repovesi National Park, sports events, etc.
• We encourage exploring our city by walking or cycling. Our hotel guests can borrow hotel bicycles free of charge.
• Our selection includes local products.
• We focus heavily on recycling. The district heating and electricity we use are 100% renewable. Additionally, we have our own solar power plant.
• We provide our hotel guests with information on how they can make environmentally friendly and responsible choices during their stay.
• We engage in annual charity work: We donate annually to the Pink Ribbon campaign. Last year, we organized a chocolate collection before Christmas in collaboration with Original Sokos Hotel Seurahuone Kotka, which was entirely donated to the children's ward of Kymenlaakso Central Hospital to bring Christmas cheer to young patients. Last year, we also donated experiential gift cards for our hotel services through the local Hope ry.
• We collaborate with local educational institutions and often have interns in our house.

Sustainability tips:

• Drink clean tap water. There are glasses in the rooms and in the restaurants water comes to the tables in pitchers.

• Prefer local food in the restaurant and at breakfast. Even if the standing table is overflowing with delicacies, put a smaller amount on the plate first and take more if you still can.

• Give as a gift and experience the experiences yourself. Instead of traditional gifts of goods, prefer gift cards, restaurant dinners and pampering weekends.

• Hop on a bike or use public transport and see Kouvola with new eyes. Get to know Kouvola's wonderful cultural and natural sites, enjoy live music and visit brick-and-mortar stores and craft shops.

• Take a hike in the nearby destinations. Local tourism is now in, and in our city you can find wonderful hiking destinations near and far. The hotel reception has a folder with recommendations for the best nearby destinations. Remember to always collect your own trash!

• By choosing a Green Key marked hotel, you are participating in promoting responsible and more sustainable tourism. Thank you for caring!

Better choices are always in order.