Accor checks in for climate goals

The top hotelier is hitting climate goals by cutting out single-use plastics, reducing food waste and boosting water conservation.

Accor Pacific chief operating officer Adrian Williams

NSW is not on track to meet its legislated net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. It is not even on track to meet its interim targets of 50 per cent below 2005 levels within five years or 70 per cent by 2035.

But Accor, the largest hotel operator in Australia and New Zealand, claims to have hit a milestone in its sustainability strategy with more than 200 hotels now eco-certified.

Accor says it has achieved this by eliminating single-use plastics, reducing food waste and enhancing water conservation throughout its Pacific hotels.

This eco-certification is in place across more than half of Accor’s network in the region, which the company says shows its commitment to implementing more sustainable tourism practices across its portfolio.

In Australia, more than 190 Accor hotels have achieved Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia, meeting criteria related to environmental, socio-economic, cultural and responsible management principles. Across the Tasman, more than 20 hotels have earned the Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Certification from Qualmark New Zealand.

“As the region’s largest hotel operator, we have an important role to play in trailblazing a more sustainable future for our industry,” Accor Pacific chief operating officer Adrian Williams said.

“This milestone reflects the passion and dedication of our teams at Accor who are deeply committed to making a positive impact on our planet.”

Around the world, Accor is fully supporting its 5600 hotels in obtaining external sustainable certifications through global and local partnerships.

Ecotourism Australia chief executive Elissa Keenan said Accor’s leadership in sustainable tourism was exemplary.

“Their dedication to achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification demonstrates their commitment to upholding globally recognised standards. This milestone not only supports responsible tourism but inspires other industry leaders to follow suit.”

Qualmark New Zealand general manager Steven Dixon said “achieving Gold Certification under Qualmark’s rigorous criteria reinforces Accor’s position as a leader in sustainable tourism. With travellers increasingly prioritising responsible tourism, this accomplishment ensures guests can travel with confidence.”