Hotel group Accor has achieved the milestone of having more than 200 of its hotels across Australia and New Zealand eco certified.
The group, which is the largest hotel operator across the two countries, is adopting a leadership position around sustainability and sustainable tourism. Part of the challenge is meeting the needs of certification authorities across different jurisdictions.
Certification meets local standards
Across Australia, more than 190 of the group’s hotels have met or exceeded the standards demanded by Sustainable Tourism Certificatio, administered by Ecotourism Australia. And in New Zealand, it is Qualmark New Zealand that has checked out and approved more than 20 hotels under its Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Certification.
“This is a fantastic milestone for us in the Pacific,” said Accor’s Adrian Williams. “As the region’s largest hotel operator, we have an important role to play in trailblazing a more sustainable future for our industry.Our teams at Accor are deeply committed to making a positive impact on our planet.”
The certification process is ongoing, with more than 70 further properties being checked against a range of metrics. The aim is that Accor will have had all of its network in the region eco certified by 2026, another important step on its way to reducing the carbon impact of the business globally.
Among the green initiatives the group has already committed to, are the elimination of single use plastics, such as shampoo bottles in hotel rooms. In kitchens, changes are aimed at reducing not just energy use, but food waste too. Inevitably, all these moves involve a combination of global strategies, with local implementation and partnerships.
Aside from what hotel brands can do, guests also have a major role to play in supporting sustainability initiatives. A recent study, supported by Accor and Booking.com used research from the University of Surrey to better understand traveller motivations around sustainable decisions.
The report notes that while guests may be sceptical about their roles, they can have a significant impact on sustainability during a hotel stay. The Sustainable Travel Report 2024 found 83% of guests say sustainable travel is important. It points to a number of ways guests can be nudged towards helping, while messaging from the hotelier is also important in helping guests understand why certain practices are changing – and how their behaviour can deliver a positive impact.
Supporting new build energy efficiency
Another major way that hotel brand groups can influence positive change, is by encouraging new hotel developments to be more energy efficient. Accor has a large pipeline in Australia and New Zealand, including a dual branded hotel at Sydney airport, and a Mondrian hotel on the Gold Coast, which are new builds and will meet the latest efficiency standards.
Refurbishments, too, offer an opportunity to upgrade the building fabric and reduce energy consumption. Current refits include Mantra Melbourne airport, 25hours in Sydney and the Pullman Hamilton, which will see the existing Mistry Centre, the city’s tallest building, refurbished to create luxury hotel space.
