It is widely acknowledged that this decade needs to be one of climate action. Without taking bold steps now, we will not be able to achieve the net zero carbon target set for 2050 and avert climate catastrophe.
But why focus this white paper on existing hotels? For the simple reason that they must be part of the solution. Approximately 80% of the buildings that will be in use in 2050 already exist today, which includes hotels. Failing to improve our existing hotels is not an option. Similarly, a comprehensive programme of zero carbon hotel new build between now and 2050 would also be problematic; the embodied carbon associated with construction, such as through material extraction, transport and assembly, would be significant.