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Sustainability at our core

We have a long history of driving sustainable development within the hotel industry. As early as in 1996, we began reporting sustainability data, long before it became standard practice in the industry. 

Our sustainability journey

Sustainability is a central part of our business  strategy. As the largest hotel chain in the Nordics,  we have both the opportunity and the responsibility to influence, drive change, and inspire a more sustainable future for the entire industry. In 1993, we clearly showed  the way with concrete action when we introduced the “hang up your towel” concept.

2026

Science-based targets approved

2026

Science-based targets approved

We have raised our ambitions and set climate targets in line with the Science Based Targets initiative’s (SBTi) criteria. The targets include both short-term goals up to 2033 and a long-term ambition to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 at the latest. The targets were validated in February 2026.

2020

100% renewable energy from hydroelectric sources at all Scandic hotels

2020

100% renewable energy from hydroelectric sources at all Scandic hotels

100% renewable electricity. Already back in 2012 all Scandic Hotels used 100% renewable energy, and we have since the aqusition of Restel implemented a strategy for making sure that all hotels run on 100% renewable energy.

2019

Launched EcoStay – a cleaning initiative based on guest preferences

2019

Launched EcoStay – a cleaning initiative based on guest preferences

Many guests stay with us for more than one night. By not cleaning their rooms every day, we save water and cleaner.

2015

Launched Breakfast for All

2015

Launched Breakfast for All

Our breakfast includes lactose-, milk- and gluten-free, as well as vegan, products.

2008

Switched to serving local water in reusable bottles

2008

Switched to serving local water in reusable bottles

We serve our own taper water – cooled, carbonated and filtered so that no valuable minerals are lost – in specially designed bottles.

2003

Introduced an Accessibility Standard

2003

Introduced an Accessibility Standard

We started working to make hotels more accessible to people with disabilities. This attracted global attention and led to an Accessibility Standard, which consists of more than 100 points.

2001

Launched Scandic in Society

2001

Launched Scandic in Society

With “Scandic in Society” we take responsibility within the communities where we operate. Each year, our team members carry out hundreds of local activities, and our hotels participate in at least three.

2000

First hotel certified with the Nordic Swan Ecolabel

2000

First hotel certified with the Nordic Swan Ecolabel

Scandic Sjølyst in Oslo became the first hotel to be certified. Today, we are the largest eco-labelled hotel company, and our ambition is to certify all hotels operating under the Scandic brands.

1995

Began phasing out single-use disposables

1995

Began phasing out single-use disposables

We started with shampoo bottles. Since then, we have removed all other single-use disposables made of plastic, such as plastic straws, swizzle sticks and plastic lids. We also only offer toothbrushes made of bamboo.

1993

The idea to reuse hotel towels was born

1993

The idea to reuse hotel towels was born

A team member thought guests should reuse their towels and came up with the “hang up your towel” concept that is the global industry standard today.


Every Action matters

Since opening our doors, we have taken steps to develop Scandic into a pioneer.  We are eager to continue to make a difference and to challenge ourselves and the  industry. When we take a step forward, the industry often follows. 

Learn more about our sustainability journey!

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