Hostelería #PorElClima
Nominated by: Ana Mastral (Project Manager in ECODES of Hostelería #PorElClima)
Summary of the project
Hostelería #PorElClima is the platform that has promoted action against climate change in the hospitality industry since 2017 to strengthen a model capable of moving towards a decarbonised economy.
Innovation
Hostelería #PorElClima is focused on a key sector in Spanish society contributing 6% of Spain’s GDP, employing 1.76 million people, and generating €122.86 billion annually. Its success is driven by the collaboration of Coca-Cola Spain, bringing expertise in hospitality, and Comunidad #PorElClima (ECODES), providing knowledge in climate change and energy efficiency. The project also benefits from public support from Hostelería de España representing the sector at a national level.
The project follows a structured, phased approach, adapting to the priorities and pace of the sector. It is built around six key areas of climate action: water savings, energy efficiency, responsible consumption, sustainable mobility, carbon footprint reduction, and waste management. The first step is an environmental self-diagnosis, assessing each establishment’s performance across these six areas through a 56-question evaluation. Based on the results, businesses receive an action plan to implement concrete improvements.
To ensure effective emissions reduction, Hostelería #PorElClima developed a free carbon footprint self-measurement tool, enabling establishments to calculate and monitor their emissions. The climate action voucher program, initially offering €1,000 per business, supports investments in green and digital transitions, focusing on emission reductions, energy efficiency, and cost savings. Recognising its impact, the program has been expanded to diversify its offerings and enhance reach.
The Climate Action Observatory, backed by the Spanish government, collects carbon footprint data to provide valuable insights previously unavailable to the sector. Additionally, a financing agreement with BBVA bank offers businesses tailored financial solutions for implementing energy-efficient technologies. Looking ahead, the project is developing a Climate Solutions Finder, using artificial intelligence to help hospitality businesses make informed decisions on cost-effective energy efficiency measures.
Impact
Hostelería #PorElClima has measured 12,660.37 tons of CO₂ emissions, of which 10,248.94 tCO₂e have been offset through Voluntary Carbon Market projects. The initiative has invested €162,000 in energy efficiency and water-saving improvements for 162 hospitality establishments through climate vouchers, supporting businesses in their decarbonisation efforts.
The platform has built a community of over 14,000 businesses, driving 225,000 climate actions within the hospitality sector. Data collected through the project shows that 62.65% of a restaurant’s emissions come from electricity consumption, highlighting the importance of carbon footprint calculation, reduction strategies, and technology upgrades. The climate vouchers and BBVA financing options help establishments transition to energy-efficient technologies, cutting costs and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
The project has also strengthened economic resilience in the sector by promoting sustainability as a competitive advantage. Through the self-diagnosis tool, carbon footprint tracking, and financial incentives, businesses optimise waste management, resource consumption, and operational efficiency, supporting local economies and green technology providers. The upcoming Climate Solutions Finder will quantify cost savings and emissions reductions linked to sustainable business practices.
Beyond environmental and economic impact, Hostelería #PorElClima has positioned hospitality businesses as leaders in the decarbonisation process, influencing suppliers, customers, and local institutions. Through 47 public presentations in cities and towns across Spain, the project has showcased pioneers in climate action, inspiring the industry to adopt best practices in sustainability. To further recognise climate leaders, the Sin Huella Awards celebrate establishments that have successfully reduced their carbon footprint and environmental impact.
Scalability and replicability
Hostelería #PorElClima has proven its ability to scale beyond Spain, establishing a framework that can be replicated in different regulatory and economic contexts. In 2022, ECODES launched the Sharm El Sheikh Declaration at COP27, inviting the global hospitality sector to commit to net-zero emissions by 2050. This initiative connected the hospitality industry with the global climate agenda, leading to recognition from the UN’s Race to Zero campaign as a model for sector-wide decarbonisation.
The first international replication of the project has already begun in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, where Hostelería #PorElClima is supporting hoteliers, merchants, and local institutions in making the historic city center a global benchmark for sustainable tourism. In 2025, the project will expand to Portugal, adapting its 56 sustainability measures and carbon footprint tool to the Portuguese regulatory landscape.
The replication process will focus on analysing which sustainability measures require adaptation, ensuring they align with local needs and policies. The SCOPE CO2 Hostelería self-calculation tool will also be adjusted to incorporate Portugal’s specific emission factors. Supporting this expansion will be a priority throughout 2025, with Hostelería #PorElClima and Coca-Cola Spain acting as advisors to guide the adaptation process.