Radisson Hotel Group introduces Africa’s first Verified Net Zero hotel in Hoedspruit
Radisson Hotel Group has announced that Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit in South Africa’s Limpopo province has become Africa’s first Verified Net Zero hotel. The 138-room property is located near Kruger National Park and Blyde River Canyon.
What "Verified Net Zero" Means
The hotel's certification is part of Radisson's Verified Net Zero (VNZ) Hotels program, which aims to:
-
Virtually eliminate Scope 1 (direct) emissions.
-
Eliminate Scope 2 (purchased energy) emissions through renewable energy.
-
Significantly reduce Scope 3 (supply chain and value chain) emissions.
-
Address remaining emissions through carbon removal credits.
-
Undergo independent verification by TÜV Rheinland.
Renewable Energy & Electrification
-
Powered by a combination of on-site solar generation and renewable electricity procurement.
-
Future plans include a solar wheeling agreement.
-
Uses electric kitchen equipment, heat pumps, electric golf carts, and utility vehicles to reduce fossil fuel use.
Water Conservation & Waste Reduction
-
Recycles 100% of wastewater through an on-site treatment plant.
-
Works toward diverting all waste from landfill through recycling and composting partnerships.
-
Uses refillable bulk bathroom amenities and reusable glass water bottles.
-
Encourages guests to reuse towels and choose flexible housekeeping schedules.
Lower-Carbon Food & Responsible Sourcing
-
Introduces carbon-labeled menus through partnership with Klimato.
-
Prioritizes lower-carbon meal options.
-
Supports circular economy initiatives, including upcycling coffee packaging through local community projects.
Uses compostable coffee capsules and recyclable tea packaging.
Strategic Importance
-
According to Radisson executives, the project serves as a practical model for how existing hotels can transition toward lower-carbon operations without compromising guest comfort. The initiative supports the company's goal of reaching 100 Verified Net Zero hotels globally by 2030.
Why This Matters
-
This is a notable milestone for African hospitality because it demonstrates that a large, existing safari hotel can substantially reduce its environmental footprint through renewable energy, electrification, water reuse, waste reduction, and sustainable food practices while continuing to operate as a full-service tourism destination.
