Procurement Proves Key to Radisson's Sustainability Efforts

The procurement function is central to achieving corporate sustainability targets, with purchasing decisions directly impacting Radisson Hotel Group's ability to reach net zero.

For the hotel industry, which according to the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance needs to cut carbon emissions by 90% per room by 2050, rethinking the supply chain is critical. 

Radisson Hotel Group is leading the charge, having already begun taking steps to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.

Sourcing for net zero operations

Radisson has committed to near-term goals to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 46.2% and cut absolute Scope 3 emissions by 27.5% by 2030, using 2019 as a baseline. The long-term plan is to reduce absolute Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions by 90% by 2050.

By 2023, Radisson Hotel Group achieved a 35% reduction in its Scope 1 and 2 carbon footprint per square metre from 2019 levels. Meanwhile, Scope 3 emissions, which occur in a company’s value chain, put sourcing decisions under the spotlight.

Radisson Hotel Group has two hotels – in Manchester and Oslo – verified as net zero, meeting global 2040 standards over a decade early. Achieving this requires a deep dive into the supply chain.

Beyond eliminating Scope 1 and 2 emissions through electrification and 100% renewable energy, the hotels have addressed Scope 3. This is managed through operational changes and a complete procurement reassessment, with any remaining emissions offset via carbon removal credits. This focus extends to guest engagement and supplier transparency.

Inge Huijbrechts, Chief Sustainability Officer at Radisson Hotel Group, says: “We’re engaging our guests with sustainability – there is information on the app to see about waste minimisation, our local partners, the chef’s uniforms made partially from recycled material, the sustainable crockery supplier, the upcycled furniture supplier and much more.”

Supplier engagement and market signals

By prioritising sustainable suppliers, Radisson is influencing market-wide practices. The selection of partners for uniforms, crockery and furniture at its net-zero properties demonstrates a procurement strategy that values environmental credentials, sending a clear message to the market.

“We’re proud to be sending market signals to clients, owners, our teams and suppliers as well as the other chains,” explains Inge.

The strategy aligns with Radisson Hotel Group's broader objectives.

Federico González, Executive Vice Chairman at Radisson Hotel Group, adds: “We have a clear commitment to reach net zero by 2050 and are focused on making a positive impact on the planet, the people and communities, while always delivering an exceptional guest experience and offering our signature ‘Yes I can!’ service.”

Federico is confident that Radisson Hotel Group "will continue to lead the way in responsible growth, working towards net positive hospitality in the industry”.

Procuring renewables and reducing waste

A key part of Radisson’s procurement effort is focused on the energy transition. As of 2023, 79 of Radisson Hotel Group’s hotels operated on 100% renewable energy as a direct result of strategic energy procurement.

Waste reduction is another key area where procurement is vital. Radisson is phasing out single-use plastics by changing its purchasing policies. Across its properties, 91% eliminate single-use plastic straws, while water and toiletry bottles are being replaced with reusable and recyclable alternatives.

Radisson Hotel Group also helps create the Hotel Sustainability Basics initiative with the World Travel and Tourism Council. This establishes criteria for reducing energy and water use, waste and carbon emissions, guiding procurement choices for its hotels.

By making informed procurement decisions, Radisson Hotel Group demonstrates how smart sourcing can have a positive environmental impact.