Q&A: Eleni Andreadis, director of CSR at Sani Resort

Since being certified as Greece’s first carbon-neutral resort in 2020, Sani Resort now runs on 100% renewable energy and is working towards a goal of becoming net zero by 2030. Aspire sits down with the resort’s director of CSR Eleni Andreadis to find out more about its sustainability strategy and targets

Q. Can you tell us a little more about Sani Green and the resort’s CSR initiatives?

Sani Green is the resort’s sustainability programme, which launched in 2008 as part of the overarching long-term Sani/Ikos Group ESG strategy. At its core, Sani Green focuses on decarbonisation, energy and water efficiency, circular waste management and responsible sourcing. Our goal is to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030, fully eliminate single-use plastics and become zero waste to landfill by the end of this year. Biodiversity protection is also a core priority, and we monitor local ecosystems, including the Sani pine forest, wetlands and Thermaikos marine area. Alongside our environmental goals, we work closely with local producers, schools, hospitals and NGOs to ensure a positive, lasting impact on our communities and people.

Q. What kind of results have you seen since launching Sani Green?

The results of Sani Green have been both measurable and transformative. We have made major progress towards our triple zero goals – zero carbon emissions, zero single-use plastics and zero waste to landfill. In 2023, we reduced energy consumption per guest night by more than 7%. That same year, the Sani Forest sequestered more than 150,000 tons of CO2. We are also nearing zero-waste-to-landfill operations. Since 2018, we have reduced single-use plastics by more than 74% and reached a recycling rate above 60%. Beyond environmental results, our impact on local communities continues to grow. More than 60% of our produce is sourced within 100 miles and we also support more than 60 non-profit organisations annually.

Q. How do you think Sani Green and the resort’s wider sustainability initiatives help attract guests?

Sani Green plays a crucial role in shaping how guests perceive Sani Resort. Modern travellers are increasingly drawn to destinations that offer authenticity, transparency and responsibility. Sustainability is central to the refined hospitality we provide, and guests increasingly respond to that. Participation in our eco-activities and educational programmes grows each year, while sustainability consistently ranks among the highest-scoring aspects in guest surveys. Visitors value the knowledge their stay contributes to the support of biodiversity, reducing emissions and bolstering local communities.

Q. What does the resort do best in terms of sustainability?

Our greatest strength lies in the way sustainability is fully embedded into the DNA of Sani Resort. We have a shared culture of responsibility, which truly sets us apart. We also feel that this is reflected in the recognition we have received, including distinctions such as Blue Flag, Travelife for Accommodation and Green Key labels.

Q. What goals does the resort have for the future? 

We are focused on our journey to be net zero across all scopes by 2030. But our vision goes beyond doing “less harm” – it is about actively regenerating and creating lasting positive impact. Looking ahead, we want Sani to continue serving as a benchmark for responsible hospitality – not only in the Mediterranean, but globally. What makes this journey so inspiring is the potential for collective progress, driven by the dedication of our teams, the engagement of our guests and the strength of our partnerships.