The European Union is introducing a new wave of sustainability requirements that will reshape the hotel industry starting 2026. These regulations aim to boost transparency, curb greenwashing, and standardize how hotels measure and communicate their environmental impact.
- Standardized environmental footprint measurement for hotel services (life-cycle based, PEFCR framework)
- Tighter rules on sustainability and carbon claims, requiring data, third-party verification, and real emissions reduction (not offset-only declarations)
- Stronger transparency and reporting requirements, especially under CSRD
- Prohibition of vague or unsubstantiated environmental marketing
Now is the time to prepare, measure, validate, and transform.
Hotels should begin preparing now by building a solid sustainability foundation. This means auditing and verifying all environmental claims, avoiding vague terms unless they can be proven. Key metric shall be measured such as energy, water, waste, and emissions per guest-night, adopt recognized third-party certifications instead of self-created labels, and align reporting with CSRD requirements if applicable. It’s equally important to monitor the upcoming PEFCR methodology for calculating hotel environmental footprint and ensure that sustainability messaging, from marketing materials to booking pages, can withstand a “show the data” test.
ABOUT GCSTIMES
Since 2011, GCSTlMES has pioneered sustainable development, evolving from smart card R&D to sustainable material innovation. Today, we stand as a global platform for sustainable solutions.
Sustainability is our foundation. Through technological innovation and creative solutions, GCSTlMES delivers diverse services and tangible products, positioning ourselves as both manufacturers and innovators.
GCSTlMES believes technology should empower human progress and cultural preservation. By integrating sustainability into technology, we aim to make it “warm” and purposeful. Our products serve as cultural ambassadors, promoting local heritage worldwide.
Brand Portfolio: GCS, AUROkeys, Xenyra, and Glint Spot, offering sustainable smart cards, creative (custom-shaped) key cards sustainable supplies, cultural gifts, and bespoke design and related services.
Currently, GCSTlMES has five operational centers in China, US, UAE, France, and Australia, along with 14 subsidiaries and offices worldwide. Its services extend to over 140 countries and regions supporting more than 100,000 international hospitality group in achieving low-carbon and sustainable development goals.
GCS Times
MKT Team
