IHG learned that doing its part in helping reduce carbon emissions was also helping operating expenses. Studies show energy and sustainability certification reduced operating costs and property risks and increased commercial property value by an average of nearly 15%.

Some of the benefits the company would be:
– Energy savings of up to 25%, approximately $90,000 a year for an average hotel.
– Reducing carbon footprint, per occupied room, by 12% across the entire portfolio
– Reducing water use, per occupied room, in water-stressed areas by 12%.
-Missing the opportunity to serve mindful travelers.

Carbon intensive hotel assets risk becoming stranded assets if actions aren’t taken to decarbonize them. Before the pandemic, nearly three-quarters of travelers stated they intended to stay at least once in ‘eco-friendly’ accommodation within the upcoming year. A total of 70% said knowing eco-friendly accommodation would make them more likely to book to stay, even if this was not what they sought out for initially. Doing nothing or too little presents a commercial and reputational risk for brands, operators, and owners