5 Ways This Global Hotel Chain Is Contributing to Ocean Conservation

With the rising demand for sustainable travel options, many resorts are stepping up their game with initiatives like recycling programs and eco-friendly dining. However, Iberostar is taking it a step further. Positioned along stunning beachfronts, this leading hotel chain has reinforced its commitment to responsible tourism by making a bold pledge to protect a vital resource we all share: the ocean. By prioritizing the preservation of marine and coastal environments, Iberostar has established a roadmap for eco-conscious travel, ensuring that future generations can cherish this invaluable natural treasure.

In 2018, Iberostar reaffirmed its dedication to sustainability—a core principle since its inception—with the launch of the innovative Wave of Change initiative. This program focuses on ocean protection and advocates for responsible tourism. According to its latest report, the company is on track to achieve carbon neutrality in its operations by 2030, while also enhancing the ecological health of the surrounding ecosystems and ensuring profitable tourism. Here are some remarkable ways Iberostar is driving a transformative shift in the industry.

Coral Planting Initiatives

Similar to rainforests, coral reefs serve as the ocean's lungs, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen back into the atmosphere. They also shield coastlines from erosion and are among the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. To protect these essential habitats from climate change and disease, Iberostar’s Wave of Change Science and Coastal Health teams are focusing on identifying coral species that are more resilient, establishing nurseries, and restoring reefs in high-risk areas in places like the Dominican Republic and Mexico. In Jamaica, a new nursery will house approximately 10,000 elkhorn coral fragments.

Promoting Sustainable Seafood

Overfishing poses a significant threat to the oceans, making the ethical sourcing of seafood crucial. Iberostar has set a goal to achieve 100 percent responsible seafood consumption by 2025 and has already made significant progress: 78 percent of the seafood served at its resorts is sourced responsibly, including all properties in Mexico, providing guests with delightful and sustainable dining experiences.

For seafood to be considered responsible, it must adhere to standards that positively impact communities, economies, and the environment. This includes fisheries and farms recognized by the Global Sustainable Seafood Initiative, which ensure safe working conditions and support local communities by offering direct income and training for sustainable fishing practices.

Investing in Blue Carbon Solutions

To meet its ambition of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, Iberostar is actively decarbonizing its operations and supply chain. This includes transitioning from fossil fuels to electrification, cutting business travel by 40 percent, and implementing various other strategies. Additionally, to offset the remaining emissions, Iberostar will invest in nature-based solutions that promote sustainable ecosystem management while benefiting local communities economically. In a pilot program in the Dominican Republic, Iberostar’s Coastal Health team explored how red mangroves can effectively filter nitrates and phosphates from the water as part of their carbon sequestration efforts.

Minimizing Waste Production

In 2020, Iberostar became the pioneering hotel chain to eliminate single-use plastics from their guest rooms, successfully reducing annual plastic waste by 420 tons. The brand has ambitious plans to achieve a waste-free status by 2025. Notably, in 2022, one of Iberostar’s standout initiatives was minimizing landfill waste, which was bolstered by improved waste management practices, composting, and an AI-powered food waste tracking system developed in partnership with Winnow. This collaboration alone rescued over 533,000 meals and prevented 213 tons of food waste from being discarded. Given that food contributes to 14 percent of Iberostar’s overall environmental impact, the advantages of this initiative are significant.

Revitalizing Sand Dunes

Sand dunes play a crucial role in maintaining coastal health by shielding shorelines from erosion, flooding, and hurricanes. However, these vital ecosystems face threats from environmental shifts, development, and invasive species. In Mexico, where nearly 2 million acres are covered by sand dunes, Iberostar has initiated a restoration project in locations such as Cozumel, Paraiso, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun. This initiative focuses on beach monitoring and reforesting the coast with grasses, shrubs, and other plants to enhance stability and resilience.