Global hotel giant Marriott International has had its emissions reduction targets verified by global climate action body Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
The US-based company, which set out its net zero emissions targets three years ago, said both its near-term and long-term targets have now been approved by SBTi.
Marriott’s announcement was made during the annual Earth Day on Monday (22 April). SBTi is a global partnership, which “promotes best practice” in emissions reductions in line with net-zero targets.
The company's commitments include reducing its direct Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 46.2 per cent by 2030 compared with the base year of 2019. These emissions would then be further reduced to 90 per cent of 2019 levels by 2050.
Marriott also aims to cut indirect Scope 3 emissions, which includes staff business travel and commuting, by 27.3 per cent by 2030 and then by 90 per cent by 2050. Another goal is that at least 22 per cent of its suppliers would have their own science-based emissions reduction targets by 2028.
Anthony Capuano, president and CEO of Marriott International, said: “The impact of climate change is being seen and felt across the globe. As we continue to connect people through the power of travel, we are committed to driving meaningful improvements to the environment and are energised by reaching this significant milestone.
“The approval of our near-term and long-term targets is the result of the hard work and dedication of Marriott's teams around the world who are committed to our climate action journey and creating the future of sustainable hospitality.”
Marriott is focusing on three areas to drive down emissions including energy reduction, sourcing more energy from renewable sources, and purchasing goods with lower carbon footprints across its 8,800 hotels around the world.
Initiatives have included the launch of a Climate Action Programme, creating individual carbon and energy reduction targets at each of its managed and franchised hotels globally, and introducing an Energy Optimisation Programme to help properties manage rising energy costs.