Implementation of recommendations and optional action
At this stage, we have a report with up-to-date information and proposals for reducing the negative impact of the institution on the environment.
Let all staff members know about the report. Consultations with employees on how these changes should be implemented may facilitate the process. The ‘green team’ may be useful here. (see: THE GREEN TEAM).
Prepare for a multi-stage and long-term process of implementing the recommendations and decide whether you will take this challenge single-handedly or with external training and consulting support.

Certificates
Cultural institutions and organisations can apply to have their environmental activities verified by external committees, which will take a more systematic approach than is possible in individual audits. 

> The Green Key certificate is the leading standard for excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. It represents a commitment by businesses and organisations that their premises adhere to the strict criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education. The high environmental standards expected of these establishments are maintained through rigorous documentation and frequent audits. At the same time, it is a certificate that promotes the broad concept of green transition and refers not only to resource management but also to social responsibility.


The first institution in Poland to receive the Green Key certificate was the Muzeum Śląskie in Katowice. The certificate confirms the application of environmental protection standards in facility management and the sustainable operation of tourist facilities. Interest in ecology at this institution began from the bottom up, and the motivation for action on a larger scale was the development of the museum in 2016 in connection with their move to new premises. For example, there was a need for different reporting in the context of waste management, among other things. Discussions began with employees about waste segregation, and it turned out that staff had many good habits that they wanted to transfer to the institution, not only to manage waste better, but also to introduce measures to save electricity and water. The management supported these initiatives and began cooperation with the Foundation for Environmental Education (2018). First, a series of workshops was organised, and then the institution decided to undergo an audit, which resulted in Green Key certification. The audit analysed the infrastructure situation: the facility, energy and water management, cooperation with external companies, and care for green areas. An action plan (environmental policy) was developed, which has been implemented and updated ever since. In the meantime, a Green Key Team was set up to lead the green transition. One of the biggest successes is the installation of photovoltaic panels, which provide the institution with approximately 10% of its energy needs. Currently, the biggest challenge is to introduce electronic document circulation on a larger scale and to implement systematic measures to reduce the consumption of materials at exhibitions. 

The European Solidarity Centre (ECS) obtained the international Green Key certificate in 2024. This was achieved thanks to the ECS Green Team, which prepared the institution for this undertaking. It is the second cultural institution to receive this distinction. For ECS, the certificate was a big step forward in terms of its green path. It allowed the institution to translate ideas into indicators, and to adapt the indicators to the specific nature of the institution and make them more formal. Thanks to the Green Key certificate, it is easier for the institution to set new goals, implement them and communicate them.



Here is the process that the European Solidarity Centre went through on its way to obtaining the certificate: 

1. The auditor was contacted, indicators were defined, and a zero audit (test form) was conducted. At this stage, it was important for the team to meet with a representative of the certifying organisation. 
2. The indicators were adjusted to the specificity of the institution in consultation with the auditor (e.g. the certificate required the appointment of a person responsible for environmental management, which at ECS resulted in the creation of a Green Team and the appointment of a person to coordinate its work).
3. The institution’s activities were implemented and adjusted to the indicators, while at the same time there was a growing understanding that obtaining the certificate was part of a longer and continuous process of improving solutions.
4. An audit similar to a zero audit was conducted. Together with the certifying body, the ECS team went through all the indicators, and an on-site inspection was carried out at the same time. 

The cost of the certificate in 2025 was PLN 3,620.50 net plus VAT (rate for public institutions).

Why can an audit be important for a team? 
It is a way of recognising the efforts made so far. An audit allows you to establish a clear plan and set new goals, which motivates people to work on them. The involvement of managers in the audit will help to consolidate green change in the institution.