Radisson opens first net zero hotel in Africa near Kruger National Park

Radisson Hotel Group has launched its first net zero hotel in Africa, located near Kruger National Park in South Africa, according to Skift. The 138-room Radisson Safari Hoedspruit is the group's 10th Verified Net Zero Hotel and one of the first managed properties participating in the program.

Unlike previous net zero hotels that were mostly leased properties with costs on Radisson's books, this hotel is owner-funded. The owner is investing in the net zero features expecting a quick financial payback from charging higher rates, Skift reported.

Radisson's Verified Net Zero program requires hotels to use renewable energy through electrification and renewable power purchases to reduce Scope 3 emissions, with the remainder offset by carbon removal credits. The program is independently verified by TÜV Rheinland.

The company plans to expand the scheme to more managed and franchised hotels starting next year, aiming to reach 100 Verified Net Zero Hotels by 2030. In South Africa, acquiring renewable power was the most challenging aspect of achieving net zero status, Skift noted.