Scuba diver holding orange coral branch underwater

Sustainability

Iberostar Wave of Change

At Iberostar, we believe that memorable holidays begin with extraordinary destinations. Protecting the coastlines, oceans and communities that make these places so special is essential to ensure they can continue to be enjoyed for generations to come. By helping strengthen the resilience of these destinations today, we can help preserve the experiences that our guests come to enjoy – both now and in the future.

Beachfront Coral Lab building with thatched roof hut

Guided by science. Inspired by destinations. Driven by people.

Iberostar Wave of Change is our long-term commitment to champion positive change through positive tourism. By combining science, innovation and collaboration, we continuously evolve how we design, operate and improve our hotels, from caring for our people and supporting thriving destinations to advancing climate action, circularity and nature restoration.

What sets us apart is our science-led approach. Our in-house scientists and engineers work alongside universities and expert partners to transform knowledge into practical solutions – from restoring coral reefs and protecting biodiversity to reducing emissions, driving circularity and sourcing seafood responsibly. By measuring, monitoring and continually improving our impact, we're working together to build more resilient destinations for people and nature.

Experience the Difference
Caring for Destinations
Behind the Scenes

Hands examining specimens in cloth hat on sand

Experience the Difference

From the food on your plate to the landscapes around you, Iberostar Wave of Change is woven into your holiday experience. Some initiatives are visible, while others happen behind the scenes, but together they help care for the destinations you have come to enjoy – without compromising on the quality, comfort and hospitality you expect from Iberostar.

* Enjoy 93% responsibly sourced seafood and try new local flavours.

* Refillable water stations and a guest experience focused on removing single-use plastics from our operations.

* Relax in hotel landscapes designed with native planting that supports local biodiversity and reduces water usage.

* Learn about nature and the importance of the ocean through our Star Camp educational programme.

* See science in action. Visit coral restoration laboratories and conservation projects at selected destinations.

Honest Food

Person planting green sprouts on sunny beach

Caring for Destinations

Every destination is shaped by its coastline, nature, culture and communities. We work alongside local communities, scientists and partners to help protect and restore ecosystems, celebrate local identity and build long-term partnerships that support the places where we operate.

* Restoring coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass meadows and coastal dunes.

* Destination stewardship initiatives developed with local communities and partners.

* Scientific monitoring and long-term research to measure impact and continuously improve our approach.

* Partnering with local educational programmes to develop youth and local employment opportunities.

* Discover community experiences and take part in connected and positive activities.

Four workers walking through palm-lined resort path

Behind the Scenes

Innovation and responsibility are embedded in how we design, operate and improve our hotels. Everyone has a role to play. By testing, measuring and scaling practical solutions, we're reducing emissions, minimising waste, using resources smartly and strengthening our operations.

* Renewable electricity and energy-efficient technologies.

* AI helping to reduce food waste and composting organic material where possible.

* Our in-house 3R waste specialists are now diverting 79% of waste from landfill.

* Continuous measurement to guide future improvements.

Projects in Action

As a family-owned company, we believe people are at the heart of meaningful change. Guided by passion, innovation and commitment, our teams bring Iberostar Wave of Change to life every day.

Restoring Life Below the Surface

Coral reefs support around 25% of all marine life (UNEP), yet rising ocean temperatures and coral bleaching are putting them under increasing pressure. Our in-house scientists are helping to restore these vital ecosystems through three coral laboratories and seven coral nurseries across the Caribbean. By monitoring reef health, cultivating resilient corals and sharing research with expert partners, we are working to advance reef restoration and conservation. You can visit our team in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Mexico.

Advancing Circularity

Waste is one of hospitality’s greatest opportunities for innovation. Our circular economy approach focuses on preventing waste, keeping materials in use for longer and finding better ways to recover valuable resources.

While guests may notice reuse points and recycling stations throughout our hotels, behind them are more than 250 specialists dedicated to the 3Rs: reduce, reuse and recycle. They help recover materials, turn organic waste into compost for our gardens and identify new opportunities to give materials a second life. Combined with AI that helps reduce food waste in our kitchens, these initiatives have helped us divert 79% of waste from landfill.

And because circularity requires collaboration, we also work with suppliers, partners and the wider hospitality industry to help scale practical solutions.

From Ocean to Plate

Great seafood starts with responsible choices. Today, 93% of the seafood served across Iberostar hotels is responsibly sourced, following internationally recognised standards including MSC and ASC certification, with full traceability from source to plate. We also avoid serving species identified as overexploited or at risk, helping to reduce pressure on vulnerable marine ecosystems.

Beyond sourcing, we work with suppliers, fishers and Fishery Improvement Projects to encourage more sustainable fishing practices and support coastal livelihoods. By introducing guests to a wider variety of responsibly sourced seafood, we’re helping celebrate new flavours while supporting healthier oceans.

* Unless otherwise stated, all figures are based on Iberostar's 2025 reporting period.