NATIONAL REPORT—As conversations around sustainability grow across industries, hoteliers have to ask: Is this something we should be focusing on? If you’re going for a higher star rating, sustainable operations initiatives may be a lot lower on your priority list than daily room cleanings, providing hair dryers and other star requirements. However, sustainability may be more valuable for your hotel than you realize. It can reduce water and energy consumption and staff workloads, potentially saving you money. Sustainable operations initiatives can also be marketing differentiators, helping you showcase the value of your hotel beyond good star ratings. Below, we look at why sustainable tourism...

SUNNYVALE, CALIF.—Treehouse Hotels has officially landed stateside with its first U.S. outpost: Treehouse Hotel Silicon Valley, a happiness-inducing hotel that’s part of the playful lifestyle brand created by hospitality innovator Barry Sternlicht, Founder and Chairman of Starwood Hotels. Treehouse Hotels first took root in 2019 with a celebrated location in London’s Marylebone neighborhood and is continuing to grow—with a much-anticipated second U.K. act that just opened in Manchester and even more global locations on the horizon. Now open in Sunnyvale, Calif., the new Treehouse Hotel Silicon Valley brings Treehouse Hotel’s trademark blend of whimsy and warmth to America’s innovation capital. A...

Just a few years into my time as a lodging industry journalist—1992—the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) launched the Energy Star program. This was during the administration of President George H.W. Bush. Since then, according to EPA, the program has grown to encompass tens of thousands of organizations, utilities, and state and local governments who have partnered with the government to save energy and reduce emissions. With their help, EPA works to identify and dismantle the unique market barriers that prevent progress, and to provide the information and stability that private markets need to thrive. The environmental impacts are...

SEATTLE—In honor of Earth Day, Sustainable Travel International released the latest episode of its Sustainable Travel: Where Next? docu-series spotlighting Zurich, Switzerland’s approach to responsible tourism. Produced in partnership with BlackRook Media, the short-form documentary reveals how sustainability in Zurich is a true community effort, rooted in local life and naturally extending to the visitor experience. From mobility and the arts to food and fashion, Zurich demonstrates how solutions that work for residents also enrich tourism, engaging visitors in creative initiatives that benefit both the city and the world. By showcasing the city’s efforts, the episode aims to inspire...

BERLIN—The World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (the Alliance) announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with OceanShot and Deborah Brosnan & Associates during the Hospitality and Tourism Panel at the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) CEO Summit in London. This landmark partnership highlights a shared commitment to integrating nature-based solutions into the hospitality industry, aiming to achieve Net Positive Hospitality through practical, science-driven, and regenerative solutions that benefit both the environment and the sector. The MOU will be effective for three years, focusing on key milestones such as the development of a comprehensive framework, implementation of pilot programs, and ongoing evaluation...

Green Lodging News reported earlier this week that Choice Hotels International, Inc. had released its 2024 Sustainability Report. The report covers the fiscal year of January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2024. Choice is one of the largest lodging franchisors in the world, with over 7,500 hotels representing more than 650,000 rooms in 46 countries and territories. Choice’s sustainability strategy and initiatives, many of which align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), demonstrate its commitment to being a responsible steward for people and the planet. “We are committed to propelling the success of others and building a...

PARIS—Accor announces the launch of its white paper, Sustainable Expansion of Greek Tourism, an industry report exploring how sustainability can drive long-term growth and resilience in Greece’s tourism sector. In 2024, Greece welcomed a record-breaking over 35 million international visitors, reaffirming its status as one of the world’s top travel destinations. As tourism continues to thrive, so does the need for responsible expansion—one that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. With its strong and expanding presence in Greece, Accor considers the country a strategic priority, and this white paper reflects its commitment to supporting the evolution of sustainable...

LONDON—As India rapidly matures in global and economic influence, so does the buying power of its vast and adventurous traveling population. According to new research by MMGY Travel Intelligence, passport-carrying adults in India intend to spend an average of $4,755 on leisure trips in the next 12 months, pinpointing a 14 percent increase in spending over the past year. This and other findings are at the core of Portrait of Indian International Travellers—which unveils key new insights into the travel behaviors, motivations and preferences of Indian travelers exploring abroad. “India is rapidly emerging as one of the world’s most influential outbound travel markets,” said...

NORTH BETHESDA, MD.—Choice Hotels International, Inc., one of the world’s largest lodging franchisors, released its 2024 Sustainability Report. “At Choice Hotels, we are dedicated to building a better tomorrow, today, by integrating sustainable practices across our business,” said Megan Brumagim, Vice President, Upscale Brands and Chief Sustainability Officer for Choice Hotels International. “Our 2024 Sustainability Report highlights our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint and driving long-term value for hotel owners. We are proud of the progress we’ve made and remain energized to continue our journey towards a more sustainable tomorrow.” Key Highlights of the 2024 Sustainability Report Carbon Emissions: Choice Hotels has reported...

DULUTH, MINN.—Loll Designs, the made-in-the-USA outdoor furniture design manufacturer, received the distinctive GOLD certification under the TRUE (Total Resource Use and Efficiency) rating system. Awarded by Green Business Certification Inc., a leading independent sustainability and health certification body, TRUE helps facilities measure, improve, and maximize zero waste performance through sustainable waste management and reduction practices, contributing to positive environmental and global health impacts. Founded on principles of thoughtful design, the responsible use/reuse of recycled materials, and a deep appreciation for the environment, Loll embodies what it means to be a sustainable product, process, and company. Today, Loll is proud to...