Hotelplan UK publishes second planet and people report

The report outlines progress and successes from the group’s 2023/2024 financial year, along with addressing challenges it still faces on its journey to be a business that is better for people and the planet.

 

Joe Ponte, Group CEO of Hotelplan UK, said: “I’m really proud of how we’re transforming into a purpose-led business that prioritises planet and people alongside turning a profit.

 

"We’ve set a clear plan to enhance company culture, implement carbon reduction pathways and deliver genuine value to the communities that support us – all whilst continuing to deliver products and experiences that exceed customer expectations. 

 

"We’re far from perfect, but it’s exciting to see how our strategic initiatives are beginning to turn the dial in these areas.”

 

Key achievements 

 

Between November 2023 and October 2024, Hotelplan UK:

 

• Achieved B Corp certification for Explore Worldwide
• Reduced the carbon footprint of its trips on a per person, per night basis for a second year running
• Invested £1.2 million in carbon removal and biodiversity restoration
• Removed more than 20,000 tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere via active carbon removal projects
• Donated £98,601 to charitable projects
• Embedded carbon and biodiversity knowledge across the team 

 

Challenges

 

Decarbonising international transportation is a key challenge acknowledged.

 

Director of Sustainability Prue Stone commented: “We’re building a picture of the carbon emissions that were avoided through switching passengers from planes to trains last year, but flight-free travel is not practical for every destination or every passenger. Flight emissions account for more than three quarters of our total footprint and this will remain a prime focus for 2025.”

 

Hotelplan UK has reduced the intensity carbon footprint of its trips by 10% pppn since baseline measurements. The group’s absolute footprint, however, has increased for a second year running, albeit at a slower rate. The 2024 audit shows an increase of 5% year-on-year, following on from a 42% increase in 2023.

 

The report can be read at hotelplan.co.uk/media/asqfx52t/hotelplan-uk-planet-and-people-report-2025.pdf