Hospitality and tourism — long associated with escape and indulgence — are facing a reckoning as the climate costs of travel and accommodation come into sharper focus.

The sector accounts for roughly 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, driven by both construction and the ongoing resource demands of hotels, resorts and related infrastructure. As scrutiny grows, the design of these spaces is emerging as a flashpoint in the broader push toward sustainability.

For an industry built on offering comfort and retreat, the challenge is increasingly clear: how to deliver those experiences while sharply reducing environmental impact.

Architects and developers are under mounting pressure to ensure that the carbon footprint of each project stays as low as possible — without compromising the appeal that draws visitors in the first place.

Those efforts are set to be recognised at the 2026 Sustainability Awards, where the Hospitality & Tourism category will highlight projects aiming to redefine the sector’s environmental standards.

Organisers say shortlisted entries will span a range of approaches, from creating locally driven business and employment opportunities to implementing low-impact operations, conservation strategies and waste reduction programs. Projects that incorporate education initiatives or raise environmental awareness among guests are also expected to feature prominently.

To be considered, submissions must demonstrate measurable sustainability outcomes and a clear positive contribution to local communities and economies. Judges will weigh criteria including functionality, long-term performance, integration of sustainable systems, responsiveness to context, and overall occupant experience.

Such materials, installed with reversible fixing systems, can be repurposed across projects, reducing demand for new resources and lowering overall environmental impact — a consideration gaining traction in hospitality design, where renovation cycles are frequent.

Winners will be announced at a gala event in November 12 in Sydney, marking the culmination of this year’s awards program.

Organisers are encouraging architects and developers to submit projects that not only meet evolving sustainability benchmarks, but also help reshape expectations for an industry under increasing environmental pressure.

To enter the 2026 Sustainability Awards Hospitality and Tourism category, click here.

Image: Last year's winners 'The Silos Accommodation' by Cooee Architecture / Photography by Matt Beaver

Branko Miletic

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