Learning from sustainability practice: case examples from Accor, Scandic and Atlantica

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the importance of trade-offs between the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and creating a holistic, integrated approach.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses secondary data including official reports from three companies: Accor Hotels, Scandic Hotels and Atlantica Hotels. Third party references from research sources are included.

Findings

This study concludes that companies are adopting corporate social responsibility practices focussed on stakeholders’ needs. Additionally, the general trend in the case study hotel companies is towards similar sustainability approaches though less progress is reported in addressing the more complex issues relating to SDG 8 and SDG 10 because sustainability targets are more difficult to determine, implement and measure.

Originality/value

The three selected companies were chosen based on location criteria. Accor has a worldwide presence whereas the other two companies could be considered as multinational companies. Scandic is a Swedish company operating in Scandinavian countries whereas Atlantica is a Cyprus-based company operating in Greece and Egypt. The contrast among the selected companies displays different considerations regarding their commitment to SDGs.

Citation

Onoufriou, N. (2020), "Learning from sustainability practice: case examples from Accor, Scandic and Atlantica", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, Vol. 12 No. 5, pp. 587-596. https://doi.org/10.1108/WHATT-06-2020-0046