Accor partners with World Monuments Fund

Accor, a global leader in hospitality, has entered into an industry-pioneering three-year partnership with World Monuments Fund (WMF) to protect cultural heritage and strengthen local communities. Through this partnership, Accor will work with WMF to share their expertise, resources, and global presence on projects that enhance destinations, connect with communities, and support long-term resilience.

The travel and tourism industry plays a critical role in the global economy, accounting for up to 10% of global GDP — and as much as 70% in certain countries — while supporting 10% of global employment.  At the same time, the consequences of climate change and the impact of over-tourism can also affect some cultural and historical sites and treasures that make up the richness of the territories and local communities. Both Accor and WMF are dedicated to developing and promoting innovative travel solutions that address challenges and contribute to sustainable progress, rather than exacerbating existing issues. In partnering with WMF, Accor aims to make its full contribution to the preservation of local heritage and to the environmental and social development of these destinations.

Over the next three years, Accor and WMF will harness their complementary expertise, resources, and global reach to deliver projects that enhance destinations, offer meaningful connections with communities, and build long-term resilience. WMF’s preservation projects – included in their signature program the World Monuments Watch, often include training local communities and working with authorities to develop sustainable tourism that lessens the harmful effects of mass tourism. As part of this partnership, Accor will actively participate in redefining these tourism schemes, ensuring that sites are preserved and continue to attract visitors, sustaining the local economy and developing skills of the local community, without compromising cultural heritage. Additionally, Accor and WMF aim to distribute tourism flows, showcasing monuments and heritage places beyond traditional tourist hotspots, and helping new destinations emerge through thoughtful, sustainable development.

Accor and WMF’s collaboration will continue to unfold over the next three years, with the first initiatives by the beginning of 2025 as well as Earth Day on April 22, 2025. Together, these two leading organizations are setting new standards in sustainable tourism, ensuring that the world’s most treasured places will be preserved for generations to come.

Sébastien Bazin, Chairman & CEO Accor said, “Through this meaningful partnership, Accor is deepening its commitment to safeguarding the cultural heritage while preserving the world’s most cherished destinations. This collaboration also aims to foster new initiatives for a sustainable and responsible development of the travel sector. We continue our purpose to pioneer the art of responsible hospitality, connecting cultures with passion and generosity.”

Bénédicte de Montlaur, CEO of the World Monuments Fund said, “At WMF, we believe that sustainable tourism is crucial for the protection of cultural heritage. When tourism is managed responsibly, it not only preserves sites but also strengthens local communities by fostering socioeconomic growth. One of our key priorities is to ensure that tourism helps communities build the capacity to manage their sites effectively, providing long-term benefits that protect heritage while promoting sustainable development. This collaboration with Accor enables us to further our mission of preserving the world’s cultural treasures, while also advancing sustainable tourism. With Accor’s support, we will continue to protect heritage sites and empower local communities to thrive.”