Towards a greener European hospitality: the new EU 2030 climate target and the “renovation wave” strategy
In her first State of the Union address, President Von der Leyen announced the plan to raise the EU 2030 climate target from 40% to 55% – sustainable development is among the hospitality industry’s top priorities and, of course, on September we welcomed the Commission’s proposal.
Nonetheless, for businesses in the industry to remain competitive and climate-friendly at the same time, HOTREC believes that the sector needs proportionate measures and new EU tools to finance this transition – especially when it comes to micro-enterprises and SMEs.
Moreover, a “renovation wave” for Europe was announced by the Commission on 14 October, presenting a new strategy that will boost renovations in the public and private building sector – one of the largest energy consumers in Europe. The main aim is to double annual energy renovation rates in the next ten years. The Commission Communication will be discussed by the Council, the European Parliament, other EU institutions and stakeholders. The discussions will cover legislative and non-legislative measures and will involve action at EU, national, local and regional level.
HOTREC fully supports the strategy, as the renewal of buildings is a top priority of our sustainability agenda. We call now on Member States to include the renewal of buildings as part of their respective national recovery plans.
We hope this new strategy will help the European hospitality to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the well-being of owners, workers and guests.
