Radisson Hotel Group is rolling out a global expansion of its Verified Net Zero Hotels (VNZ) programme, aiming to certify 100 properties by 2030.
The move transitions the programme from its pilot phase last year to a longer-term roadmap that will scale the initiative across multiple regions over the next five years.
Discover B2B Marketing That Performs
Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.
The next phase of the VNZ scheme was unveiled at the International Hospitality Investment Forum (IHIF) 2026, which runs through 25 March.
The new rollout will start this year in Norway before extending to Denmark, Sweden, the UK, and South Africa, the latter becoming the first country on the African continent to participate in the programme.
Further expansion is scheduled for Germany, Austria, and Spain’s Canary Islands as part of the ongoing development efforts.
Radisson’s VNZ concept began as a proof-of-concept to demonstrate the possibility of achieving net zero status in operational hotel buildings.
The programme is structured around eliminating Scope 1 and 2 emissions using electrification and renewable energy sources such as city heating and cooling networks.
It also aims to reduce Scope 3 emissions in areas such as foodservice, waste management, laundry operations, hotel amenities, and business travel.
All participating hotels will receive independent verification by TÜV Rheinland based on internationally recognised standards aligned with the Science Based Targets Initiative.
To date, two VNZ hotels operating in Manchester and Oslo have reported that they maintain guest awareness levels above 70%; approximately one-fifth of their guests cite net zero status as a booking factor.
Radisson Hotel Group chief sustainability and security officer Inge Huijbrechts said: “The excellent results from the Manchester and Oslo VNZ hotels support the expansion of Radisson Hotel Group’s pioneering program.
“The hotels show strong carbon reduction across all emission scopes, high guest awareness, and clear support for sustainable meetings and events.”
The new phase includes a distinct icon for verified properties, which Radisson revealed at IHIF 2026.
The icon will be displayed throughout each hotel and features QR codes for digital information access. It is produced partly from organic waste generated during hotel operations.
As interest grows among regulators, investors and guests regarding sustainability measures in hospitality, Radisson Hotel Group is positioning its VNZ rollout as an externally audited model for operational transparency and scalability within the sector.
