Move to support growing demand for visibility from travellers
October 6, 2026·2 min2 min read
HBX Group has partnered with sustainability certification specialist, Bioscore, to help hotels in its portfolio navigate the process of obtaining recognised sustainability certification.
The collaboration is part of HBX Group’s Sustainable Certified Hotels Programme, which aims to increase the number and visibility of independently recognised sustainable properties available through its B2B travel marketplace.
While the programme already identifies hotels that hold recognised sustainability certifications, the new partnership is aimed at properties that have yet to achieve certification.
Bioscore will help participating hotel partners understand the requirements of its sustainability scheme and organise the data and evidence required for independent evaluation.
HBX Group said the initiative is particularly intended to support small and medium-sized hotels that may lack dedicated ESG teams or the internal resources to manage the certification process themselves.
The partnership is the first between HBX Group and a sustainability certification scheme owner and forms part of the company's wider push to increase the number of certified properties across its portfolio.
Elena Pérez, chief HR, communications and ESG officer at HBX Group, said: “Hotels are facing growing expectations to demonstrate their sustainability progress in a way that is credible and transparent, but navigating the certification journey can be complex.
“As a partner to hotels around the world, we can help make that journey easier.”
The move comes as scrutiny of environmental claims and sustainability labels increases in Europe.
New EU consumer protection rules applicable from 27 September 2026 strengthen requirements around environmental claims and sustainability labels presented to consumers, increasing the importance of credible and independently verified certification.
Víctor Monzón, CEO of Bioscore, said: “Hotels need a clear way to substantiate what they communicate, particularly as EU rules tighten restrictions on generic environmental claims and sustainability labels.
“Through this collaboration, we support HBX Group’s hotel partners throughout the certification process, helping them understand the requirements and organise the data and evidence for evaluation by independent certification bodies.”
HBX Group said the partnership is also intended to respond to growing demand for certified accommodation, allowing travellers and travel businesses to make more informed choices around sustainability.
The company will continue to recognise sustainability certifications aligned with internationally recognised standards and frameworks, including those associated with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and Travalyst.
Participation in the Bioscore initiative will be voluntary for hotels.
