As the hospitality and leisure sector looks ahead, there are several exciting trends emerging that could shape the future of sustainability in this industry. These trends not only reflect changing consumer demands but also the sector’s growing commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

One trend that is expected to gain momentum is eco-friendly accommodations. Guests are increasingly choosing hotels, resorts, and lodges that have sustainability at their core.

In the future, we’re likely to see more properties investing in green building certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). These certifications require buildings to meet strict environmental standards, covering everything from energy efficiency to waste management(1).

LEED is a globally recognised green building certification system that is also gaining traction in the UK, although BREEAM  is more prevalent.

LEED can be applied to various building types and phases, from design and construction to operations and maintenance. It provides a framework for sustainable building practices and helps organisations achieve sustainability goals.

The rise of eco-tourism is another key trend. As environmental awareness continues to grow, more travellers are seeking sustainable travel options. Hotels and leisure operators are likely to focus on offering environmentally-conscious experiences, from promoting local culture and heritage to providing nature-based activities that have minimal environmental impact(2).

This trend also aligns with the broader desire for authentic, responsible travel experiences that connect guests with local communities and natural surroundings.

Smart technology is another area that’s poised to revolutionise sustainability in hospitality. Smart thermostats, energy management systems, and automated lighting are already making it easier for businesses to optimise energy usage and reduce waste(3). In the future, expect even more innovation in the use of AI and IoT (Internet of Things) to monitor energy consumption, water usage, and waste production in real time, allowing businesses to make instant adjustments and minimise their environmental footprint.

Sustainable food sourcing will continue to be a major trend as consumers increasingly demand farm-to-table dining experiences(4). Hotels and restaurants will continue to work with local farms, reduce food waste, and explore plant-based menus as part of their efforts to cut down on their environmental impact.

Overall, sustainability will increasingly be a defining factor in the future of hospitality and leisure, with businesses embracing innovative solutions to create more environmentally responsible and customer-friendly operations.

Bibliography

1 BREEAM or LEED - strengths and weaknesses of the two main environmental assessment methods (Accessed May 2025) https://www.bsria.com/uk/news/article/breeam-or-leed-strengths-and-weaknesses-of-the-two-main-environmental-assessment-methods/

2 46 Sustainable Tourism Statistics (Accessed May 2025) https://www.coachhirecomparison.co.uk/blog/sustainable-tourism-statistics

3 From check-in to check-out: How technology is powering the smart hotel revolution (Accessed May 2025) https://lhmagazine.co.uk/from-check-in-to-check-out-how-technology-is-powering-the-smart-hotel-revolution/

4 Sustainability in the hospitality industry (Accessed May 2025)  https://www.deloitte.com/uk/en/Industries/consumer/blogs/sustainability-in-the-hospitality-industry.html