Accor embarks on sustainability drive

ACCOR is ramping up its commitment to sustainability with the launch of PLANET 21, a comprehensive programme that places sustainable practices at the core of its global business strategy.

“At a time when (Accor) is embarking on a phase of brisk expansion, we are reaffirming our commitment to responsible growth capable of generating shared value for all,” said Denis Hennequin, chairman and CEO, Accor.

With the enhanced focus on sustainability, Accor has made 21 commitments and is targeting the same number of quantified goals by 2015, including: employees trained in disease prevention in 95 per cent of hotels; 80 per cent of properties promoting balanced dishes; 85 per cent of hotels using eco-labelled products; a 15 per cent reduction in water consumption; and 10 per cent decrease in energy use at all owned and leased hotels worldwide.

Sophie Flak, executive vice president, Sustainable Development and Academies, Accor said: “Seventy per cent of our key account customers have integrated sustainable development criteria into their supplier policies, and one out of two take this criterion into account when choosing a hotel.”

Accor properties will only be allowed to use PLANET 21 messages if they comply with a certain level of sustainable development performance, or if they achieve an internationally recognised external environmental certification.

The name PLANET 21 is a direct reference to Agenda 21, the environmental action plan signed by 173 heads of state at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit.

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