Sustainability + Environment
Sustainability, Decarbonisation, Circular Economy, and Net Zero in the UK Hotel Industry
The UK hotel industry is at the forefront of the nation’s transition towards a “sustainable, decarbonised, and net zero future”. With the government and consumers alike placing increasing pressure on businesses to reduce their environmental impact, hotels must embrace comprehensive strategies for sustainability and responsible growth.
Why Sustainability Matters
- The hospitality sector - including hotels, B&Bs, and guesthouses - accounts for a significant portion of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions, with over eight million tonnes emitted annually.
- Consumers are increasingly prioritising sustainable travel, with 74% stating their intention to travel more sustainably and more than half expressing frustration when their accommodation impedes their eco-friendly choices[.
- Adopting sustainable practices offers cost savings, regulatory compliance, and enhanced guest loyalty.
Decarbonisation & Net Zero Objectives
- The UK’s hospitality sector has an ambitious goal: to reach net zero emissions by 2040, a decade ahead of the national 2050 target.
- Interim targets include eliminating all operational emissions by 2030, with milestones set for 2022, 2025, and 2028 to ensure steady progress.
- Key decarbonisation initiatives include:
- Switching to renewable energy sources and improving energy efficiency.
- Conducting regular energy audits and implementing smart management systems.
- Redesigning buildings and operations to meet green building standards.
Circular Economy in the Hotel Sector
- The industry’s shift to a **circular economy** focuses on reducing waste and optimising resource use:
- Eliminating unnecessary single-use packaging.
- Making plastic packaging 100% reusable, recyclable, or compostable
- Halving food waste by 2030
- Partnering with local suppliers and incorporating more locally sourced, low-carbon, and plant-based menu options.
- Hotels are encouraged to engage in comprehensive recycling, collaborate with suppliers to minimise packaging, and adopt resource-efficient procurement and operations.
Industry Commitments and Reporting
- The “UKHospitality Environmental Sustainability Commitment” provides a framework of ten pledges driving action in packaging, supply chain, biodiversity, and workforce skills.
- The upcoming “Sustainability Reporting Standards (SRS)” will require hotels - starting with larger operators - to publicly disclose environmental impacts such as energy use, carbon footprint, waste management, and water efficiency. SMEs are expected to follow best practices as market expectations rise.
- Transparent reporting builds trust with guests and stakeholders, positioning hotels as responsible players in the market.
The Road Ahead
- Sustainable business is now essential for resilience and competitiveness: Leading hotels report up to a 30% reduction in waste disposal fees and greater guest satisfaction after adopting sustainable practices.
- Hotels that act now on sustainability, decarbonisation, and the circular economy will see benefits in regulatory preparedness, cost efficiency, and brand reputation.
- The sector’s clear roadmap - grounded in science - based targets and practical action - ensures that UK hospitality will continue to contribute positively to communities, consumers, and the planet.
The journey to net zero is well underway. Every action, from cutting emissions to embracing circular principles, strengthens the UK hotel industry’s future resilience and appeal.