This latest partnership follows a similar move in Australia in which Accor has teamed up with Ecotourism Australia.
Under the new arrangement, New Zealand’s quality assurance organisation for the tourism industry will work with Accor properties across the country to reach the gold standard of Qualmark’s Sustainable Tourism Business certification.
“We’re excited to partner with an industry-leading hotel operator like Accor,” said Qualmark New Zealand’s general manager, Steven Dixon.
“Compared to 10 years ago, travellers are now three times more likely to choose a business that has been sustainably accredited. Our vision is to see all New Zealand tourism businesses join Qualmark, to make it easier for our manuhiri (visitors) to make sustainable choices.”
Qualmark’s sustainable tourism certification will assess each hotel across five areas – the environment, health and safety, business systems, people and community and culture. Hotels will be evaluated by Qualmark, which is owned by Tourism New Zealand, each year. Qualmark’s certification is recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
“We are delighted to partner with Qualmark as a leading voice and authority for sustainability in the New Zealand market,” said Adrian Williams, Accor Pacific’s chief operating officer for its premium, mid-scale and economy brands.
“Our hotels are already accredited with Qualmark and we are now taking actions for them to reach gold accreditation – the highest possible standard under the new GSTC aligned standards.
“Sustainability is fundamental in our business, and we are proud to contribute to shaping the future of tourism in New Zealand by investing in our sustainability actions and activities. Our next phase of growth is built on our powerful sense of environmental, social and economic responsibility.
“In 2023, in collaboration with our hotel owners, Accor Pacific removed some 55 single use plastic items, such as individual toiletries from guest facing areas and plastic water bottles, in over 80 per cent of hotels.
“In 2024 and beyond, we are committed to taking these actions further into food waste and sustainability, water usage, eco certification and diversity and inclusion. We know there is a lot more to do and our teams will continue to focus on driving sustainability actions.”
