Overview

Accor Group’s Sustainable Hospitality: A Commitment to a Greener Future

Accor Group, one of the largest hospitality companies in the world, has placed sustainability at the forefront of its operations. With more than 5,000 hotels globally, Accor has implemented a comprehensive strategy to reduce its environmental impact and lead the charge toward sustainable hospitality. Accor’s commitment to sustainability is guided by its Planet 21 program, which focuses on carbon reduction, energy efficiency, waste minimisation, water conservation, and biodiversity protection. From eco-friendly technologies to innovative waste management practices, Accor’s portfolio of hotels is embracing sustainability without compromising luxury, offering environmentally conscious solutions for modern travellers.

Carbon Reduction and Renewable Energy Solutions

Central to Accor’s environmental strategy is the reduction of carbon emissions across its properties. The group has set ambitious targets to reduce its carbon footprint by 46% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. A prime example of this effort can be found at Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, where the hotel has implemented advanced energy management systems. These systems use real-time data to monitor and optimise energy use, reducing wastage by automatically adjusting lighting, heating, and cooling based on occupancy.

Many of Accor’s properties have also invested in renewable energy. The Novotel Christchurch Airport in New Zealand has installed solar panels, generating a significant portion of its energy needs and reducing the hotel’s reliance on non-renewable resources. Similarly, Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel has introduced energy-efficient lighting and heating systems throughout the property, and it sources a substantial amount of its electricity from renewable energy suppliers. These initiatives ensure that Accor is making meaningful progress towards its carbon reduction goals while delivering a luxury experience to its guests.

Water Conservation and Sustainable Water Practices

Water conservation is a critical focus of Accor’s Planet 21 program, with hotels across the group adopting innovative technologies to reduce water consumption. Fairmont Monte Carlo, a luxury property within the Accor family, has introduced greywater recycling systems, which treat wastewater for reuse in irrigation and landscaping. This practice significantly reduces the hotel’s demand for freshwater, which is vital in locations where water scarcity is a growing concern.

Accor hotels like Mercure Jakarta Pantai Indah Kapuk have installed low-flow taps and showerheads in all guest rooms and public areas, reducing water consumption while maintaining guest comfort. Additionally, Accor has committed to reducing water consumption per guest by 10% by 2025, with several properties also investing in smart irrigation systems that only water outdoor spaces when necessary, further minimising waste.

Waste Reduction and Circular Economy Initiatives

Accor has also been a leader in waste management and reduction initiatives, striving to adopt a zero-waste-to-landfill approach at many of its properties. At Raffles Hotel Singapore, food waste is a major focus, and the hotel has partnered with Winnow, an artificial intelligence (AI) system that tracks food waste in real-time. By analysing food waste patterns, the kitchen can make adjustments to reduce overproduction and ensure efficient use of ingredients. The hotel has also introduced composting solutions for food waste, turning leftovers into nutrient-rich compost that is used in the hotel’s gardens and urban farming projects.

Another outstanding example is Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, which has embraced the circular economy by repurposing old linens, towels, and uniforms into cleaning cloths and aprons. This practice not only reduces waste but also supports the hotel’s local community by involving local artisans in the recycling process. In an effort to minimise plastic waste, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Resort has eliminated single-use plastic items, replacing plastic bottles, straws, and toiletries with eco-friendly alternatives like bamboo and refillable dispensers.

Sustainable Building Design and Green Certifications

Accor is also committed to ensuring that its new builds and renovations meet the highest standards of environmental sustainability. Many of the group’s properties have earned LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certifications for their energy-efficient design. Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel in Bangkok is a shining example of sustainable building design. The property incorporates solar shading and energy-efficient insulation, reducing the need for artificial cooling and lighting. It also features green roofs, which help reduce the urban heat island effect, lower energy consumption, and create an aesthetically pleasing natural environment.

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives, a resort within the Accor portfolio, has taken its commitment to sustainable design further by ensuring that the entire property is constructed with sustainable materials. The resort’s villas are made from reclaimed timber, and the property is designed to operate in harmony with the local environment, ensuring minimal disruption to the island’s natural habitat. The resort’s coral restoration program also helps protect marine biodiversity and allows guests to actively participate in conservation efforts.

Single-Use Plastic Reduction and Responsible Sourcing

Accor has committed to removing all single-use plastics from its guest experience by 2023, and many of its hotels have already made significant progress. Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre has replaced single-use plastic bottles with glass water bottles, and all plastic straws have been swapped for biodegradable alternatives. The hotel also offers guests reusable water bottles and provides refill stations throughout the property, promoting responsible consumption and reducing plastic waste.

Another critical area of focus for Accor is responsible sourcing, particularly in its food and beverage services. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi sources nearly 80% of its ingredients from local farmers and suppliers, reducing its carbon footprint while supporting local communities. Accor is also dedicated to promoting sustainable seafood across its properties, ensuring that only responsibly sourced fish and seafood are served at its restaurants. This initiative is already in effect at properties like Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Canada, which has implemented the Ocean Wise program, ensuring that the seafood served is harvested in ways that protect ocean ecosystems.

Biodiversity and Eco-Friendly Guest Experiences

Biodiversity protection is a crucial pillar of Accor’s sustainability initiatives, particularly in hotels located in ecologically sensitive areas. The Fairmont Orchid in Hawaii has launched a Bee Sustainable program, maintaining beehives on its grounds to support local biodiversity and honey production. The honey harvested from the hives is used in the hotel’s restaurants and spa, offering guests a taste of locally sourced products while contributing to global efforts to protect bee populations.

In Africa, Sofitel Marrakech Lounge and Spa has integrated sustainable agriculture into its guest experience by maintaining its own organic vegetable garden. Guests are invited to tour the garden, learn about sustainable farming techniques, and sample freshly harvested produce used in the hotel’s restaurants. This hands-on approach not only enhances guest experiences but also promotes awareness of the importance of sustainable agriculture and food production.

A Sustainable Future with Accor

Accor’s commitment to sustainable hospitality is reflected in every aspect of its operations, from energy management and water conservation to waste reduction and responsible sourcing. The Planet 21 program is more than a roadmap for sustainability—it is a call to action for the global hospitality industry to adopt greener, more responsible practices. With properties like Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour, Fairmont Monte Carlo, and Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel leading the way, Accor is proving that sustainability and luxury can coexist, offering eco-conscious travellers the opportunity to enjoy world-class experiences while supporting a more sustainable future.

Curated by the World Travel
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