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France has introduced a law requiring all hotels to commit to verified climate actions, aiming to make the country\u2019s hospitality sector more sustainable and transparent.<\/p>\n
The legislation, part of France\u2019s broader \u201cclimate and resilience\u201d framework, sets mandatory environmental certification targets for hotels by 2026.<\/p>\n
The French Parliament adopted the law in 2021, establishing rules for environmental labelling across the tourism sector. Hotels are now required to obtain government-backed eco-certifications, which assess their environmental footprint and adherence to sustainability practices.<\/p>\n
This includes energy and water usage, carbon emissions, and the use of organic or EU-regulated \u201cgreen\u201d products in food, laundry, and hotel operations.<\/p>\n
Industry representatives report that the new certification system applies to every aspect of hotel operations, from guest services and breakfast offerings to heating, lighting, linen, and cleaning products.<\/p>\n
Each hotel undergoes a detailed audit, sometimes collecting hundreds of data points, to calculate an \u201cenvironmental score\u201d ranging from A to E.<\/p>\n
French hotels collectively contribute around 7% of national greenhouse gas emissions, while also consuming significant water and energy resources and generating food waste.<\/p>\n
Officials say the new environmental labelling is designed not only to lower carbon output but also to reduce long-term operating costs.<\/p>\n
Sustainable practices already being implemented include energy-efficient lighting, low-flow taps and showers, induction cooktops, and double-flush toilets. Some hotels have reported energy savings of more than 10% while accommodating higher guest numbers.<\/p>\n
Analysts note that for a typical hotel, improving environmental performance could save up to \u20ac15,000 annually.<\/p>\n
The law has coincided with increased government support for sustainable hotel upgrades, covering 50\u201370% of the costs needed to meet certification requirements.<\/p>\n
Many hotels are already pursuing these eco-labels, ranging from historic initiatives such as the Clef Verte programme to newer local certifications.<\/p>\n
In Lyon, around 40 hotels have applied for subsidies covering up to 80% of certification fees, reflecting a broader trend as France positions itself as a leader in eco-responsible tourism.<\/p>\n
Industry experts emphasise that mandatory climate certification will create clearer transparency for guests while pushing hotels toward measurable environmental improvements.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n