Sustainability is no longer a luxury in the serviced apartment sector — it’s fast becoming a core expectation. As travellers, corporates and investors place increasing value on environmental performance, serviced apartment providers are under growing pressure to demonstrate credible sustainability credentials.
New research by Greengage highlights a significant uptick in ESG scrutiny across the sector, with 74% of corporate travel managers stating that sustainability now directly influences accommodation selection. Meanwhile, more than half of surveyed operators say they’ve experienced a marked increase in RFPs requesting verified green credentials.
“This is a clear shift,” says Daniel Forsyth, Sustainability Consultant at Greengage.
“It’s no longer enough to say you’re ‘eco-conscious’. Clients want proof — whether through carbon tracking, energy efficiency ratings or certifications like our own ECOsmart accreditation.”
ECOsmart, Greengage’s independent sustainability certification for the hospitality and travel sector, has seen a record number of serviced apartment providers apply in the past 12 months. The standard assesses properties across key environmental and social criteria including energy management, waste reduction, responsible procurement and community impact.
Operators rising to meet this demand are seeing tangible benefits:
- Increased corporate bookings from ESG-conscious businesses
- Enhanced brand trust through third-party verification
- Operational cost savings through energy efficiency upgrades
- Stronger investor appeal in a capital market that favours green assets
Forward-thinking providers are going further still — embedding renewable energy systems, partnering with ethical suppliers, and publishing transparent sustainability reports.
“Sustainability is fast becoming a differentiator in a crowded market,” adds Forsyth.
“Those who act now will not only meet the expectations of today’s clients but also future-proof their business for tomorrow.”
With regulation tightening and ESG performance increasingly linked to reputational value, sustainability credentials are not just rising in demand — they’re becoming essential.
For more on the ECOsmart certification or to start the assessment process, visit www.greengage.solutions/ecosmart.
