The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) has the potential to transform the way hotels procure materials, as many hotel groups are demanding improved visibility and credible environmental certification from their supply chains.

The EUDR mandates that specific commodities and products derived from them sold on or exported from the EU market must be traceable, legally produced and deforestation-free. The regulation applies to timber, paper, rubber, coffee, cocoa, palm oil, soy and cattle. In the hospitality sector, the most relevant products are wood products and paper-based products, such as hotel key cards and packaging.

According to GCSTIMES, "going green" has become a top priority for hotel groups, and the preference for sustainable purchasing is increasing. In addition to environmental certification, hotel groups are seeking proof of responsible sourcing and traceability of materials. The company said sustainability is not only about using sustainable materials but also involves transparency and accountability in sourcing raw materials, understanding their origins, how they have been harvested and the ability to verify these practices.

To meet EUDR requirements, GCSTIMES said it is certified under the FSC Chain of Custody and promotes the use of FSC-certified wood and paper products across its product portfolio. The company added that it is strengthening material traceability, supplier documentation and sourcing transparency across its supply chain.

The EUDR is part of a broader trend in global supply chain standards, suggesting that adherence to environmental norms is no longer an added value but rather a minimum requirement. It puts more stress on responsible sourcing and trustworthy certification within the whole supply chain, not just because of legal requirements but also as a way of addressing the increasingly sustainability-oriented expectations of their guests and purchasing departments globally.