Marriott International Advances Toward Net-Zero Goal with Science-Based Targets Initiative Approval

Marriott International, a leader in global hospitality, has achieved a significant milestone in its journey towards environmental sustainability. This week, the company became the largest hospitality entity worldwide to have its near-term and long-term greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

The company has committed to a 46.2% reduction in absolute scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Scope 1 emissions originate directly from sources owned or controlled by Marriott, like furnaces, while Scope 2 emissions come from indirect sources such as electricity consumption in its hotels.

Additionally, Marriott aims to reduce its scope 3 emissions—which include indirect emissions from activities such as waste disposal, employee commuting, and other operational aspects—by 27.5% within the same timeframe. These ambitious targets are part of Marriott’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2050, focusing on energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and sourcing lower-carbon products.

Anthony Capuano, President and CEO of Marriott International, emphasized the company’s long-standing commitment to sustainability. “For nearly a century, Marriott has aimed to serve our world and be a force for good. As the impacts of climate change become more evident globally, we are dedicated to making substantial environmental improvements. The approval of our science-based targets marks a vital step forward in our climate action journey and the future of sustainable hospitality,” said Capuano.

To support these goals, Marriott has introduced several key initiatives, including the Climate Action Program, which provides specific carbon and energy reduction targets to each hotel worldwide. Additionally, the Marriott Environmental Sustainability Hub has been enhanced to allow hotels to monitor and analyze their monthly power, water, and waste metrics more effectively.

The SBTi’s endorsement of Marriott’s climate targets not only underscores the company’s commitment to global climate action but also aligns with its ongoing growth and innovation in the hospitality industry.