Have you stayed in a hostel before?
a&o Hostels, Europe’s largest privately owned hostel chain, is pioneering sustainability in the hospitality industry by converting existing properties into eco-friendly hostels, preserving historic buildings, and meeting the rising demand for sustainable practices in construction and hospitality.
a&o’s strategy centers on converting old office and commercial buildings into hostels, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of new construction. Their goal is to become Europe’s first net-zero hostel chain by 2025. Their 2023 sustainability report highlights a 77% reduction in CO2 emissions per stay since 2015, now at just 3.32 kg CO2 per night.
Repurposing buildings avoids the emissions of new construction, conserves resources, and reduces waste. Experts suggest these conversions could save emissions equivalent to 30 years of operation, enhancing sustainability and preserving historic character.
To further their green initiatives, a&o plans to invest $22 million by 2029 in energy-efficient renovations of their properties. These renovations aim to achieve at least energy efficiency class C for all buildings, ensuring they are environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long term.
For example, they spent $5.5 million improving energy efficiency at the Munich Hackerbrücke hostel. Such efforts are part of a&o’s broader strategy to enhance the sustainability of its property portfolio, which currently consists of 39 hostels across nine European countries.
The hostel chain has adopted eco-friendly practices, such as using water—and energy-saving products, such as energy-saving lamps and showerhead aerators, and practicing “eco cleaning” to minimize chemical use and conserve resources.
The opening of a&o Brighton, the company’s second UK property, exemplifies their commitment to sustainable growth and building conversion. Housed in a listed Regency-era building that once served as a hotel in 1819, the hostel preserves its architectural heritage while offering modern amenities. Located in the heart of Brighton with stunning views of the famous Brighton Pier, the hostel offers 50 rooms with 186 beds, including a Victorian-style lobby bar and a characterful restaurant.
a&o has implemented Interactive ESG Monitors in their hostels to educate guests about sustainability and the environmental impact of their actions. Additionally, they align their operations with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and governance.
As part of its growth strategy, A&O plans to expand across Europe, targeting potential new locations in London, Paris, Rome, Madrid, and other major cities. Its focus on sustainable growth ensures that each new property aligns with its long-term vision of sustainability and green practices.
Their success in integrating sustainability into their business model is evidenced by their record-breaking performance in 2023, with 6.1 million overnight stays and a turnover of $239 million. This momentum will continue as the company leverages its sustainability credentials to attract environmentally conscious travelers.
a&o’s sustainability efforts extend beyond building conversions and energy-efficient renovations. They have installed solar panels on the rooftops of their properties to generate clean, renewable energy. They encourage guests to separate their waste and have developed a system of returnable bottles to minimize plastic waste. Each lobby features a “Book Swap” library, promoting reuse and reducing waste.
Reports from the World Green Building Council and the International Energy Agency highlight the significant impact of sustainable building practices on reducing global carbon emissions. According to these agencies, building renovations and conversions, like those undertaken by a&o Hostels, are critical to achieving the global targets set under the Paris Agreement. Market reports further indicate that consumer demand for eco-friendly accommodations is rising, with many travelers prioritizing sustainability in their travel choices.
