In Brief: Radisson Hotel Group has launched a worldwide program to certify its hotels as net-zero carbon emitters, marking a significant step in the industry’s sustainability efforts.
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Radisson Hotel Group Launches Global Verified Net Zero Hotels Program – Image Credit Radisson Hotel Group
Radisson Hotel Group has announced the global rollout of its Verified Net Zero Hotels (VNZ) program, with a target of 100 hotels by 2030 and an initial phase beginning in 2026.
Radisson Hotel Group has initiated the global expansion of its Verified Net Zero Hotels (VNZ) program, moving from a pilot phase to a structured, multi-year roadmap. The next phase of the initiative was introduced at the International Hospitality Investment Forum (IHIF) 2026, taking place from today through Wednesday, 25 March.
The VNZ program, launched as a proof of concept to demonstrate that net-zero status can be achieved in existing hotel buildings, is now being scaled to reach 100 Verified Net Zero hotels by 2030. The expansion includes a phased rollout starting in 2026 in Norway, followed by Denmark, Sweden, and the United Kingdom, with South Africa hosting the first VNZ hotel in Africa. Further expansion is planned into Germany, Austria, and Spain’s Canary Islands over a five-year period.
The VNZ program is built on a framework that addresses all three emission Scopes, is based on the Net Zero Methodology for Hotels, and is aligned with the Science Based Targets Initiative. At participating hotels, Scope 1 and 2 emissions are eliminated through electrification, renewable city heating and cooling networks, and 100% renewable energy sourcing. Operational Scope 3 emissions are reduced across food and beverage, waste, laundry, amenities, and business travel. Each hotel undergoes third-party verification by TÜV Rheinland to ensure compliance with the Net Zero Methodology for Hotels.
Year-to-date results from the two operational VNZ hotels in Manchester and Oslo show awareness scores above 70%, with about 20% of guests stating they booked the hotel because of its Net Zero status. The hotels report strong carbon reduction across all emission scopes, high guest awareness, and support for sustainable meetings and events.
The Verified Net Zero icon, unveiled at IHIF 2026, will serve as the program’s physical and digital symbol across hotel lobbies, guest touchpoints, and QR-enabled digital storytelling. A 3D-printed version of the icon, incorporating organic waste material from hotel operations, was displayed at the event.
TÜV Rheinland provides independent verification of decarbonization measures for the VNZ program, ensuring transparency and credibility in sustainability efforts through rigorous evaluation.
