Monday, June 30, 2025
Madrid, Spain – Meliá Hotels International, the largest chain of hotels in the world, achieved the title of Europe’s most sustainable hotel business and the world’s second most sustainable in the latest World’s 500 Most Sustainable Companies 2025 list published by TIME magazine. The list of prestigious rankings, which is developed in collaboration with data analytics firm Statista, identifies companies best representing good commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices. Meliá also occupies 20th position among the best Spanish companies in the global index.
This recognition follows Meliá’s long-standing dedication to sustainable practices and responsible tourism. The ranking evaluates over 5,000 companies globally using a rigorous four-stage methodology, incorporating more than 20 key performance indicators (KPIs). These indicators include participation in global sustainability initiatives such as the United Nations Global Compact, a commitment to Science Based Targets, inclusion in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook, and the quality and transparency of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting aligned with international standards such as GRI, SASB, and TCFD.
A Benchmark for Responsible Tourism
This marks the second consecutive time Meliá has been included in the World’s 500 Most Sustainable Companies ranking, reinforcing its position as a benchmark in the hospitality industry for responsible tourism. The company has consistently demonstrated that sustainability is not a separate function but a core principle guiding all decisions and actions across its global operations.
The ranking considers not only the environmental footprint of companies but also their social and governance practices, assessing their progress towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Meliá’s integration of sustainability into its business model has helped it earn a spot among the world’s top companies committed to fostering long-term, sustainable growth. This recent recognition adds to a growing list of achievements that cement Meliá’s leadership in the sustainable transformation of the hospitality industry.
Gabriel Escarrer’s Vision of Sustainability
Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman and CEO of Meliá Hotels International, commented on the prestigious recognition, emphasizing the company’s dedication to sustainability. He said, “Our inclusion in this ranking reflects Meliá‘s deep and cross-cutting commitment to sustainability. We do not view it as a separate function, but as a core principle guiding every decision we make. This acknowledgment encourages us to continue promoting a more sustainable, resilient, and transformative hotel model that responds to today’s global challenges.”
Escarrer added that Meliá’s sustainability efforts are driven by a vision to create sustainable value in the destinations where the company operates. With a focus on minimizing environmental impact, supporting local communities, and enhancing the quality of life for guests and employees alike, Meliá continues to set high standards in sustainable hospitality.
Meliá’s Sustainable Transformation in the Hospitality Industry
In addition to being named the most sustainable hotel group in Europe, Meliá has also garnered significant global recognition for its sustainability practices. The company is ranked third globally among tourism companies for its commitment to sustainability by S&P Global. Meliá is also ranked as the most sustainable hotel group in Spain, according to the Merco ESG Responsibility ranking, underscoring its leadership in the Spanish hospitality sector and its dedication to responsible business practices.
Meliá’s sustainable business practices include a wide range of initiatives aimed at reducing energy consumption, waste generation, and water usage across its hotel portfolio. The company also focuses on supporting local communities by sourcing products and services locally, promoting cultural preservation, and contributing to the economic development of the regions where it operates. Additionally, Meliá works closely with various environmental organizations and sustainability experts to continuously improve its operations and reduce its carbon footprint.
A Global Leader in Sustainable Hospitality
Meliá’s recognition as the most sustainable hotel company in Europe reflects the broader trend of growing awareness and demand for sustainable tourism. As travelers become more conscious of their environmental impact, they are increasingly seeking out hotels and resorts that prioritize sustainability. In response, Meliá has made significant investments in eco-friendly technologies, such as energy-efficient systems and renewable energy sources, while also focusing on reducing plastic waste and increasing recycling efforts across its properties.
The company’s commitment to sustainability is also evident in its efforts to promote sustainable tourism in its destinations. Meliá’s hotels and resorts are actively involved in local conservation and community projects, working alongside local governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to ensure that tourism benefits the environment and local populations. This approach not only supports the company’s environmental goals but also helps to create positive social and economic impacts in the regions where it operates.
Moving Forward: Meliá’s Continued Commitment
Looking ahead, Meliá Hotels International remains dedicated to advancing its sustainability agenda and continuously improving its ESG practices. The company plans to further reduce its environmental impact by setting more ambitious carbon neutrality targets, improving sustainable sourcing, and enhancing the overall guest experience with eco-friendly amenities. Through these efforts, Meliá aims to inspire other companies in the hospitality industry to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to a greener, more resilient global economy.
As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, Meliá’s position as a leader in sustainable tourism sets a powerful example of how businesses can thrive while prioritizing the well-being of the planet and its people.
Conclusion
Meliá Hotels International’s recognition as the most sustainable hotel company in Europe and its impressive global ranking is a testament to its ongoing commitment to sustainability. As the company continues to lead the way in responsible tourism and environmental stewardship, it is helping to shape the future of the hospitality industry and inspire travelers to choose destinations that align with their values.
(Source: Spanish Tourism Website.)
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