Spanish hotels committed to a sustainable future: from energy efficiency to recycling

The Spanish hotel sector is redefining its model with diverse strategies that combine sustainability, energy efficiency, and social commitment. From reforestation to circular economy projects that reduce waste and emissions, hotel chains are integrating innovations that benefit both the environment and local communities. With initiatives ranging from the use of renewable energy to inclusion and training programs, hotels are moving towards more responsible and competitive tourism.

Casual Hoteles has launched an innovative program where guests can forgo daily housekeeping and donate that money to creating their own forest in Perales de Alfambra (Teruel), an area deforested centuries ago for the construction of ships for the Spanish Armada. With over 1,000 trees planted in six months, this initiative has generated rural employment and is already absorbing tons of CO2, transforming a small gesture into a tangible environmental impact.

In just six months, Bosque Casual has already covered one hectare and is growing at a rate of approximately three new trees per day. To date, the forest has absorbed three tons of CO2.

Paradores de Turismo is reinforcing its commitment to environmental conservation through awareness campaigns and the “1m² Against Litter” initiative. In collaboration with various environmental organizations, its hotels are holding clean-up days in natural areas, involving both employees and guests in protecting the environment.

Grupo Piñero is making progress in eliminating single-use plastics, preventing approximately 200 tons of waste annually. Its strategy focuses on reducing waste at the source, promoting reusable materials, and conducting environmental awareness campaigns in the various destinations where it operates, combining volunteering and education for responsible tourism.

Vincci Hoteles is committed to the circular economy through its "Circular Rice" project. Coffee grounds from Nespresso capsules are transformed into fertilizer to cultivate rice, which is then used in the kitchens of its hotels. Implemented in restaurants in cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, ​​and Seville, this initiative gives waste a second life and offers guests dishes with a sustainable identity.

Six Senses Ibiza directly engages its guests in Earth Lab workshops and harvesting and planting activities at Six Senses Farm to connect with nature, local traditions, and the community. The experience promotes reduced consumption and support for local communities, sharing sustainable practices that can be applied to visitors' daily lives.

The hotels belonging to the Hotel and Non-Hotel Accommodation Association of Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro have developed the Circular Tourism Communities project, which transforms hotel bio-waste into compost to nourish farms that then produce fruits and vegetables purchased by the hotels, thus closing the production cycle. They have also promoted Energy Saving Certificates, which allow hotels to certify and monetize their energy savings, facilitating investment in energy efficiency in Canary Islands hotels.

Source: Government of Spain.