How Accor is Transforming MICE with ESG Commitments

Eco-Certification: A Key Step Towards Sustainable Meetings

Our dedication to sustainability is evident in the growing number of our eco-certified hotels. By the end of December 2024, 34% of Accor’s Europe and North Africa (ENA) properties (1,016 hotels) had obtained eco-certification, while an additional 7% (208 hotels) were undergoing the certification process. We will reach 55% by the end of 2025.

A key part of this achievement is the Green Key certification, which accounts for 96% of our certified ENA hotels. This globally recognised label guarantees that hotels meet strict environmental criteria, particularly in energy conservation, water efficiency, waste reduction and responsible resource management. But what does this mean for MICE clients?

How Accor is Transforming MICE with ESG Commitments

Sustainability has become a driving force in the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry.

As businesses and event organisers seek venues that align with their environmental, social and governance (ESG) values, Accor is rising to the challenge. As a pioneer in responsible hospitality, we are redefining the future of MICE with our strong commitment to eco-certification, carbon reduction and sustainable operations.

With the hospitality industry accounting for a significant share of global resource consumption, it has become crucial for hotels to integrate responsible practices into their operations. Clients are no longer just looking for high-end facilities; they want sustainability to be at the heart of their meetings and events. At Accor, we understand this shift and are actively implementing strategies that allow businesses to host impactful events without compromising on their environmental responsibilities.

Eco-Certification: A Key Step Towards Sustainable Meetings

How Eco-Certified Hotels Enhance MICE Events

Eco-certification is not just about sustainability—it also enhances the quality and efficiency of meetings and events. Our hotels implement several measures that positively impact MICE activity:

Energy Efficiency: Meeting rooms follow strict energy management guidelines. Lights and electrical appliances automatically turn off when the space is unoccupied and air-conditioning adjusts when windows or doors are open.
Sustainable Water Usage: Where water quality allows, tap water is offered and promoted in meeting rooms to reduce plastic waste. Nearly all properties have eliminated single-use plastic bottles entirely, opting instead for glass bottles, refill stations or water fountains.
Green Mobility: All hotels share information on local bike rentals or public transport options, encouraging sustainable travel for event attendees.
Paper Reduction: We prioritise digital tools for event bookings, conference materials and guest information, minimising paper usage across front desks, offices and meeting spaces.

These practices not only lessen our environmental impact but also help organisations align their events with corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals. By choosing an eco-certified venue, businesses demonstrate tangible commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and operating responsibly.

Accor’s ESG Strategy: Beyond Certification

While eco-certifications provide essential benchmarks, our sustainability vision extends far beyond them. We are committed to driving systemic change in hospitality by integrating ESG principles into every aspect of our operations.

Achieving Carbon Reduction Goals

Accor is actively working towards our Net Zero Carbon commitment by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement. Hotels across our portfolio implement energy-efficient systems, transition to renewable energy sources and optimise building insulation to reduce carbon footprints.

Additionally, we embed sustainability into new property designs, ensuring that all future developments adhere to environmentally responsible standards. Energy-efficient lighting, smart thermostats and the use of recycled materials in construction are just a few examples of how we are making a lasting impact.

Sustainable Food Initiatives

With over 200 million meals served annually, we are transforming our food and beverage operations:

Sourcing local, seasonal and organic ingredients to support sustainable agriculture
Reducing food waste in kitchens through AI-driven inventory management and donation programs
Eliminating single-use plastics from dining areas and event spaces

Food waste, in particular, is a major concern for large-scale events. We are implementing advanced tracking systems to monitor waste levels and adjust purchasing patterns accordingly. Event organisers working with us can also tailor their menus to prioritise plant-based and sustainable ingredients, further reducing the carbon footprint of their gatherings.

Aligning with Global Sustainability Frameworks

Our strategy follows the principles of the Kunming-Montreal Agreement and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) to protect biodiversity and ensure sustainable tourism practices. We are committed to embedding these frameworks into our daily operations, making sustainability a core business strategy rather than an afterthought.

In addition, we actively collaborate with industry stakeholders, policymakers and local communities to advocate for greater environmental responsibility across the hospitality sector. By setting ambitious targets and transparently reporting progress, we are positioning ourselves as a leader in sustainable hospitality.

Sustainable Initiatives in Action

To illustrate how these sustainability principles come to life, here are a few Accor properties across Europe that embody our commitment:

Novotel Paris Centre Bercy (France): This Eco-certified hotel has replaced single-use plastic water bottles with water fountains offering still or sparkling water. Guests can fill their own bottles on demand, reducing plastic waste.
Novotel Zurich City-West (Switzerland): Proud holder of the Green Key certification, it conserves energy through automated lighting and climate controls. Guests and meeting attendees are encouraged to use local bike rentals or public transport.
Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam (Netherlands): This luxury Eco-certified property focuses on reducing food waste and saving energy. Its central location near Amsterdam’s train station also helps visitors opt for greener travel.
Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre (Netherlands): A Green Globe Platinum Member, this hotel embraces paperless check-in and check-out, actively supports local sourcing in its F&B operations and exemplifies the Mövenpick brand’s long-standing sustainability ethos.
Novotel Hamburg City Alster (Germany): Fully engaged in eco-programmes, the hotel employs digital processes to reduce paper usage, promotes towel and linen reuse schemes and partners with local bike rental services. Guests who skip daily room cleaning earn extra ALL loyalty points, thereby helping save water and energy.
Mercure Katowice Centrum (Poland): Built with ecology and sustainability in mind, this hotel features a striking green wall (largest in the city) and uses natural materials throughout. This hotel encourages guests to travel by public transport and their Winestone restaurant focuses on local produce.

Each of these properties showcases how our vision for responsible hospitality is being put into action, and they serve as models for other Accor hotels to follow.

Shaping the Future of Responsible Meetings

As we lead the charge in responsible hospitality, the impact on MICE clients is clear. Sustainable event planning is no longer just a preference—it is an expectation. By partnering with us, businesses gain access to eco-friendly venues, reduced operational costs through energy efficiency and enhanced brand reputation through sustainability leadership.

One of the most significant shifts in the MICE industry is the growing demand for carbon-neutral events. Companies are increasingly looking for ways to offset their emissions and we are facilitating this transition through our innovative sustainability initiatives. Whether it’s through carbon footprint tracking tools, waste-reduction strategies or partnerships with green energy providers, we give event planners the resources they need to make more responsible choices.

Beyond environmental considerations, our commitment to social responsibility is also shaping the future of meetings. We prioritise diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all event spaces are welcoming and accessible. This holistic approach to ESG ensures that businesses hosting events at our properties are not just reducing their carbon footprint but also fostering positive social impact.

Accor is setting a new standard for sustainable meetings, demonstrating that responsible hospitality and successful events can go hand in hand. By choosing our eco-certified hotels and embracing sustainable practices, businesses can contribute to a greener future while ensuring high-quality, seamless event experiences. Together, we can transform the way meetings and conferences are conducted – creating meaningful, impactful and environmentally conscious events for years to come.

Whether you are planning a corporate retreat, an international conference or an incentive trip, our eco-certified hotels and ESG initiatives ensure a meeting experience that is both impactful and responsible. With a strong foundation in eco-certification, carbon reduction and responsible hospitality, Accor is helping redefine the MICE industry for a more sustainable future.

Let’s shape the future of meetings together – one sustainable event at a time.