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The future of the Mediterranean as a leading global tourism destination is directly linked to the protection of its natural and cultural wealth. Environmental pressures — from climate change and biodiversity loss to plastic pollution — demand a new development model that respects ecosystems and strengthens local communities.

The Sani/Ikos Group has emerged as a benchmark for sustainable luxury hospitality in the region. With 12 privately owned luxury resorts in Greece and Spain, and four new properties under development through 2029, the Group continues to evolve a hospitality model that combines high-quality service with authenticity and respect for people and the environment. A member of the UN Global Compact and the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative, the Group has aligned its strategy with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and has received significant international certifications and distinctions, recording measurable progress across the ESG spectrum.

Ambitious Climate Targets Towards 2030
The Sani Green and Ikos Green programmes form the foundation of the Group’s sustainability strategy. Accelerating its path toward the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, in 2024 the Group reduced direct emissions (Scope 1) by 9.5% and almost eliminated indirect emissions (Scope 2), with all resorts operating on 100% guaranteed-origin renewable electricity. For the first time, Scope 3 emissions from the supply chain were also mapped.

The Group’s energy transition includes intensive investments in energy-saving systems, electrification of facilities and fleet, EV charging infrastructure, and CO₂ absorption and offsetting actions. A major milestone is the development of the Energy Community photovoltaic park in Halkidiki, already covering 40% of the energy needs of Sani and Ikos hotels in Northern Greece — with three additional installations operating or under development in Kos and Mallorca.

Circular economy practices are embedded in daily operations:
• 26 waste-separation streams
• Organic waste composting systems
• Complete water recycling for irrigation
• AI-driven food waste reduction
• Replacement of plastics with biodegradable and reusable materials

The Group aims to eliminate all single-use plastics and achieve zero waste to landfill this year.

Protecting the Vulnerable Ecosystems of the Mediterranean
From the Natura wetlands and coastal pine forests of Sani to the marine life of the Aegean and the protection of bee populations, the Group invests in safeguarding Mediterranean biodiversity through species study and restoration programmes in collaboration with scientific institutions and NGOs including iSea, Bee Camp, Action for Wildlife, and the Forest Research Institute of ELGO DIMITRA.

Over the last two years, initiatives such as the Sani Environmental Observatory and the Sani Wetlands Project have been strengthened with monitoring systems, wildfire-prevention infrastructure, and reforestation activities. The Thermaikos Biodiversity Project expanded with the creation of a hatchery for threatened ray species at Sani Resort, resulting in the first successful release of a Kalkanovatos skate in Greece.

In Kos, Ikos Aria introduced the “Garden of Life of Hippocrates,” a botanical garden dedicated to Mediterranean flora and Hippocratic medicine. The three-year SAVE THE BEE research programme — through which 1.5 million bees were released in fire-affected areas of Mount Parnitha — has already contributed to increased insect diversity and vegetation.

Authentic Experiences that Foster Respect and Connection
For the Sani/Ikos Group, sustainable tourism is above all participatory. With more than 26,000 participations in ecological actions and educational activities since 2013 — and 3,700 in 2024 alone — guests consistently show their desire to contribute to the protection of nature and local communities.
At the same time, long-established cultural institutions such as Sani Gourmet and Sani Festival highlight haute gastronomy and cultural expression as integral elements of the hospitality experience and local identity. 

Supporting Local Communities
For the Sani/Ikos Group, sustainability extends beyond environmental initiatives — it is deeply connected to the development and wellbeing of local communities. Through its social responsibility strategy, the Group collaborates annually with more than 60 nonprofit organisations in Greece and Spain, supporting programmes that benefit thousands of children, families, and vulnerable groups.

In 2025, the partnership with The Smile of the Child ensured carefree summer holidays for all children residing in the organisation’s homes, while the long-standing collaboration with Doctors of the World expanded through the creation of the Open Children’s Centre and the Social Dental Clinic for children and young people in Thessaloniki, following the inauguration of the Social Polyclinic in 2024.

In Spain, the Group supported local communities through its collaboration with Aportem-Valencia, providing relief to those affected by devastating floods. In Greece, through the Library4All programme and the Mobile Library of the Network for Children’s Rights, hundreds of students gained access to books and learning — a simple yet vital step toward educational equality. Collaborations with organisations such as Diotima Centre and WHEN further promote physical and mental health, prevention, and women’s empowerment.

People at the Centre — The Sani/Ikos “People First” Culture
At Sani/Ikos, hospitality begins with its people — the heart and driving force behind every guest experience. With more than 7,000 employees today and projections to exceed 11,000 within the next five years, the Group is shaping a workplace culture where care, training, and personal growth go hand in hand with operational excellence.

More than 60% of employees come from local communities, strengthening local economies and providing stable employment. Competitive salaries and benefits — accommodation, meals, transportation — form the foundation, but it is the daily sense of care and purpose that makes the real difference.
Equal opportunities are a consistent priority: women represent 44% of the workforce and 21% of leadership roles.

Employee development is supported through e-learning programmes, masterclasses, and workshops that enhance skills and empathy — both essential components of genuine hospitality. The partnership with Cornell University provides access to international professional development, while the pioneering Hospitality Forward programme, created with AKMI College of the ALPHABET EDUCATION Group, bridges education and employment, preparing the next generation of hospitality professionals.

A Sustainable Future, Every Day
For the Sani/Ikos Group, sustainability is not simply an objective — it is a daily practice and a way of life. From hotel operations to the way people collaborate, sustainability starts from within. With consistency, vision, and cooperation, the Group is shaping the future of sustainable hospitality in the Mediterranean, proving that true luxury is the one that respects the environment, people, and places.

The full ESG Report, with results from the Sani Green and Ikos Green programmes for 2024, is available here.