Hotels facing water stress: actions to reduce water consumption

As a leading global hotel group, Accor has strengthened various initiatives focused on optimizing the use of this resource within its operations and promoting more sustainable practices in the hotel industry.

According to the United Nations (UN), more than 2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, while 3.6 billion live in regions that face water scarcity at least once a year. Projections indicate that by 2050, global water demand will increase by around 20%, driven by population and economic growth, while climate change intensifies
episodes of drought and scarcity.

Faced with this scenario, Accor has integrated responsible water management as a key pillar of its global sustainability strategy. For more than 50 years, the chain has promoted practices focused on the conscious and efficient use of this resource, with particular attention to the Food and Beverage (F&B) sector, where consumption is significant. Through
these initiatives, the company reinforces its commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its hotel operations.

“Responsible water management is one of the most relevant challenges for the hotel industry, especially in regions where water stress is already a reality. At Accor, we work to integrate solutions that allow us to optimize the consumption of this resource in our operations and, at the same time, raise awareness among employees and guests about the importance of using it responsibly,” said Antonietta
Varlese, Senior Vice President of Sustainability, Communications and Institutional Relations for Accor Americas.

Among the objectives set by the Group, the company is committed to increasing traceability and collaborating with responsible local suppliers to ensure its actions do not negatively impact local communities. These initiatives align with the Alliance for Water Stewardship standard, a global collaboration that includes businesses, NGOs, and the public sector, all taking steps to contribute to the
sustainability of water resources.

The measures implemented include water-saving technologies in guest rooms and common areas, consumption monitoring and control systems, as well as water reuse programs and optimization of operational processes such as laundry and maintenance. These actions aim to reduce water consumption and, at the same time, foster greater awareness among staff and guests about the responsible use of this resource.

As part of this approach, the company also promotes active guest participation in more sustainable practices. Through ALL Accor, its booking platform and loyalty program, Accor is promoting the “Skip the Clean” initiative, which invites travelers to forgo daily housekeeping during multi-night stays. This practice reduces water consumption associated with washing sheets and towels, as well as energy and cleaning product use. As an incentive, guests receive loyalty program points, which they can redeem for future experiences.

Likewise, several hotels in the group's portfolio in Latin America have adopted efficient management practices in the irrigation of green areas, using plant species adapted to the local climate and more efficient irrigation systems, which allows for a reduction in the use of drinking water in the maintenance of outdoor spaces.

In an industry closely tied to the destinations where it operates, Accor also promotes awareness campaigns and collaboration with local communities. The company recognizes that sustainable water management requires joint efforts between businesses, governments, and society, thus contributing to a more resilient tourism model that combines hospitality with the preservation of natural resources for future generations.

Source: ACCOR.