Expedia Group 2021 Global Impact Report: Green Leadership
Expedia Group 2021 Global Impact Report
We have activated companywide initiatives to improve overall sustainability; however, effecting real change will require engagement from us all.
A SHARED COMMITMENT TO BETTER
One area where we can address our environmental impact directly is in our facilities and offices. While many of our office spaces are leased, we are researching how we can improve sustainability performance by engaging with building owners and managers on their own commitments to greener operations.
Helping us design local solutions, today we have over 600 global employees actively engaged in our sustainability resource group, leading initiatives in their home offices and advising our global sustainability efforts. Though COVID-19 posed a unique challenge, we continue to encourage small changes to everyday actions – such as avoiding single-use plastics – that can add up to a substantial impact.
Another particular area of ongoing focus for us is the daily commute. We have annually surveyed all Seattle employees about how they travel to and from work, and going forward we will assess and estimate global commute patterns through the lens of the hybrid work policy now in place. We are committed to supporting lower impact options, such as carpooling or the use of public transit, which Expedia Group subsidizes for employees.
In our Seattle headquarters (HQ), we have also set plans to survey existing features and performance, identifying opportunities for even greater efficiency improvements. This includes ensuring waste management practices align with all relevant local regulations and developing processes that reduce water, energy, and material use.
Seattle HQ:
LEED Gold certification awarded in 2021
RECOGNIZED SUSTAINABILITY PERFORMANCE
Two years ago, we opened our Seattle, Washington, campus – an HQ designed with sustainability at the forefront. We transformed the 40-acre waterfront area – part of which was formerly an industrial area – bringing in soil, native plants, and grasses to restore nature and create coastal meadows.
In 2021, thanks to our investments in enhanced efficiency, sustainable materials, and emissions and waste reductions, the campus was awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.
Throughout 2021, we updated the site to enhance the value of outdoor spaces and boost local biodiversity. A designated area has been set for an employee vegetable garden while a new onsite apiary provides a welcoming space for bees. We have now applied for SITES certification, a recognition given to organizations that have designed, developed, and maintained sustainable landscapes that protect local ecosystems.
CREATING A WAVE OF CHANGE WITH IBEROSTAR
With 80% of properties located on the seafront, Iberostar Group is passionate about keeping oceans healthy and full of thriving species. As well as signing our UNESCO Sustainable Travel Pledge, the group has established Wave of Change – an initiative to protect and restore the Mesoamerican Reef.
At nearly 700 miles long, the Mesoamerican Reef is home to hundreds of marine species. Wave of Change aims to enhance resilience against the impacts of climate change, promoting actions that target a circular economy, responsible seafood, and coastal health. We have matched an Iberostar Group investment of $100,000 in the initiative, funding action to conserve this delicate and unique ecosystem. And to garner public engagement, the Creative Partnerships team within Media Solutions worked with Iberostar to create Wave of Change – an interactive campaign that brings the movement to life for travelers and inspires more responsible tourism.
UNLEASHING EXCLUSIVELY ANIMAL-FRIENDLY EXCURSIONS
We believe in travel as a force for good – travel done with respect for the welfare of people, the natural environment, and animals. We created our wildlife guidelines in consultation with experts to outline the animal welfare standards we uphold.
To offer trips that align with our values, in November 2021, we also announced we will no longer sell or promote attractions and activities that include performances, interactions, and swimming experiences with captive dolphins and whales.
