Applied to:
This award recognizes outstanding actions in the field of environmental protection and sustainable development that have contributed to ecological sustainability for the planet. The initiative must demonstrate an innovative commitment to environmental sustainability, effective management practices, and a measurable impact on reducing the industry’s ecological footprint. This award recognizes initiatives that have made significant contributions towards a more sustainable future.
* If the initiative you would like to present includes both Environmental and Social pillars, submit your project in the category according to the major aspect of it. Or you may split it into the two categories (Environmental protection and Social Responsibility).
The project:
OKKO HOTELS became a “Société à Mission” in March 2023, embedding its social and environmental commitments into its legal framework. This voluntary initiative aligns the company’s economic performance with the common good, ensuring its sustainability practices go beyond rhetoric. By incorporating its mission into its bylaws, OKKO HOTELS set a precedent as the first hotel brand to adopt this status, legally binding itself to achieve measurable progress in sustainability.
The brand’s mission revolves around four key objectives: creating environmentally conscious and well-being-focused living spaces, respecting local environments and authentic experiences, promoting neutral environmental impacts, and collaborating with virtuous suppliers and partners. These commitments guide OKKO HOTELS’ efforts to align hospitality with ecological responsibility.
To ensure transparency and accountability, OKKO HOTELS established a robust governance structure. A mission committee, comprising internal and external stakeholders, develops an annual roadmap and evaluates progress. Additionally, an independent third-party organization audits the fulfillment of these objectives every two years. This governance system ensures that OKKO HOTELS remains committed to its mission and prevents greenwashing.
The brand released its first mission report in June 2024, outlining achievements and setting benchmarks for the future. Highlights include the implementation of a supplier charter to onboard partners committed to sustainable practices and efforts to educate customers on environmentally friendly behaviors. OKKO HOTELS also aims to become an integral part of its local communities, contributing to their environmental and social well-being.
By taking this pioneering step, OKKO HOTELS has redefined the role of hospitality in addressing global challenges, ensuring that sustainability and social responsibility are central to its business model. The brand’s transition to a “Société à Mission” reflects its commitment to fostering a positive impact on its ecosystem, setting a new standard for responsible development in the hotel industry.