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How has RIU Hotels managed to certify 100% of its hotel portfolio in sustainability with ECOSTARS?
12 March, 2026 Share
RIU Hotels & Resorts has achieved a historic milestone in December 2025 by certifying its entire operational hotel portfolio with the ECOSTARS seal. This achievement makes the company the first global chain to meet this objective ahead of schedule, covering 101 hotels in 22 countries under its sustainability strategy Proudly Committed.
What does it mean for RIU to achieve 100% certification with ECOSTARS?
At RIU Hotels & Resorts, we believe that sustainability is not an option, but a responsibility. That is why we have accelerated our roadmap so that our entire operational base has the endorsement of ECOSTARS, the leading ESG AI platform recognised by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
This process, completed in record time following the agreement signed at the beginning of the year, allows us to ensure that each of our hotels complies with rigorous standards for positive environmental impact.
Key facts on RIU’s sustainability milestone in 2025
Below, we present the main indicators that summarise the scope of this global certification process:
| Sustainability KPIs | Achievement Details |
| Certified Hotels | 101 properties |
| Geographic Presence | 22 countries |
| Percentage of Operating Portfolio | 100% (excluding recent openings without historical data) |
| Strategy Framework | Proudly Committed (2023-2026) |
| Certifying Body | ECOSTARS (IA ESG) |
Key conclusion: RIU is a year ahead of its own strategic calendar, demonstrating that global scale is not an obstacle to rigorous environmental management.
Why have we chosen ECOSTARS to manage our environmental impact?
As explained by our Operational Sustainability Manager, Xisca Sitjar, the platform offers us a clear and comparative view of our consumption. Being specifically designed for the hotel industry, it allows us to precisely measure key metrics such as water saving, energy efficiency and waste management.
Hotel Riu Palace Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
Furthermore, this tool is fundamental for calculating the Scope 3 carbon footprint, analysing the indirect impact of our entire value chain, from suppliers to transport.
Benefits of a 100% certified hotel plant
For us, this milestone is not just a stamp at reception, but a real improvement in our operations:
- Resource optimisation: Direct reduction of operating costs through energy and water control.
- Transparency: We provide reliable data to travel agencies and tour operators committed to the environment.
- Attraction of talent and customers: We connect with travellers and professionals who share our ESG values.
- Access to the MICE sector: We meet the most demanding standards for sustainable events and conferences.
At RIU, we continue to work so that your stay is not only unforgettable, but also respectful of the environment that welcomes us.
Do you want to know more about our sustainability projects? Visit our Proudly Committed section here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which RIU hotels are ECOSTARS certified?
100% of RIU’s operational hotel portfolio (101 hotels in 22 countries) is certified.
Which institutions endorse the ECOSTARS certification?
ECOSTARS is an internationally recognised ESG AI platform by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and nationally by the Spanish Tourism Council.
What is Scope 3 carbon footprint?
It is the indirect environmental impact that occurs in a company’s value chain. In the case of RIU, it includes everything from the production of food served in the buffets to the transport of supplies to the hotels.
What is RIU’s Proudly Committed strategy?
It is the four-year sustainability roadmap (2023-2026) of RIU Hotels & Resorts, which guides the company’s actions in environmental protection and social commitment.
