Combatting climate change is one of the biggest challenges on the international public agenda and a priority for the tourism industry. We must all promote a responsible management model that guarantees the protection of destinations and fulfilment of our environmental commitments.

Corporate responsibility should be the backbone of every business strategy and a fundamental support for a responsible and sustainable hotel model that increases the positive impact of our activities on our environment.

Sustainable hotels by definition are those that put effort into lowering their environmental impact by cutting water usage, lowering waste, saving energy and/or using renewable energy sources.  

The hotel sector accounts for around 1% of global carbon emissions. This is set to increase as the industry grows. All hotels must assure appropriate actions to assure environmental responsibility.

For example, areas #MeliáHotelsInternational are working on today include the following:

• We incorporate sustainability criteria throughout our supply chain, beginning with hotel concept and design. Hotels need to ensure the use of sustainable products that meet the quality and quantities required.   
• Meliá Hotels are committed to using certified renewable energy sources, standardizing efficient management systems, and implementing systems that reduce water use. For example, we use energy produced from sources like the sun and wind that are naturally replenished and do not run out. This model also involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible.
• We reduce or eliminate high-impact waste from our ecosystem. Constant collaboration with leading experts allows us to move toward a circular economy model.
• We measure and control resource consumption through tools, indicators, and scientific criteria.
• We promote training and raise the awareness of our customers and employees through programs focused on respect for the environment and biodiversity.

The company is also working to promote carbon neutral events as part of a new stage for our MICE segment. To help protect the environment through sustainable actions, we have developed an innovative project to measure, reduce, and offset the carbon footprint of events held at our hotels.

It is important to work with international certification organizations that are backed by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and specialize in sustainable tourism models. Their endorsement reinforces the consistency of our commitment and approach, encouraging constant improvement and progress.