Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. (NASDAQ: HST), the largest lodging real estate investment trust (REIT) in the United States, has once again been named to the prestigious Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World) for the sixth consecutive year. This accolade highlights the company’s continued commitment to sustainable business practices, reinforcing its position as a global leader in sustainability within the hospitality and real estate sectors. Furthermore, Host Hotels & Resorts has also been recognized on the DJSI North America index for the eighth consecutive year.

The DJSI World is a renowned index that evaluates the top 10% of the largest 2,500 companies listed on the S&P Global Broad Market Index in terms of sustainability. The index assesses corporate sustainability across a broad spectrum, including environmental impact, social responsibility, and corporate governance. Host Hotels & Resorts was one of only four U.S. real estate investment trusts (REITs) to achieve this prestigious recognition.

Commitment to Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility

“We are incredibly proud to be recognized once again for our exceptional corporate responsibility achievements,” said Mike Lentz, executive vice president of development, design & construction, and executive sponsor of Host’s Corporate Responsibility program. “This recognition underscores our dedication to transparency, accountability, and responsible investment. We are committed to making a positive impact not only in our industry but also within the communities where we operate. Our focus on sustainability, innovation, and responsible business practices has been integral to creating long-term value while upholding the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility.”

This recognition follows several key milestones in Host Hotels & Resorts’ corporate responsibility program, demonstrating the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability:

1. Sustainable Financing and Green Building Projects: Host Hotels & Resorts has secured nearly $5 billion in sustainable financing to support investments in sustainable projects and green building certifications.
2. Energy Savings and Sustainability Projects: Over the past five years, Host Hotels & Resorts has completed 720 projects with sustainability attributes, resulting in an estimated annual utility savings of $23 million, equivalent to a 13-20% cash-on-cash return.
3. LEED Certification: The company achieved four new LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certifications for its properties, bringing the total number of LEED-certified properties to 20. Another 17 projects are currently in the pipeline for future certifications.
4. Employee Engagement and Charitable Giving: Host reached its annual goal of at least 90% employee participation in charitable giving and volunteerism. The company also tripled the number of employees participating in development programs through targeted learning and development opportunities.
5. High Employee Engagement: The most recent employee engagement survey revealed that 88% of employees are highly engaged, exceeding the company’s target of 85%.

Sustainability as a Key Pillar of Business Strategy

Host Hotels & Resorts has made sustainability a core pillar of its business strategy, integrating it into every aspect of its operations. This dedication is reflected in the company’s focus on reducing environmental impacts, increasing energy efficiency, and supporting the communities where it operates. By promoting sustainable practices across its portfolio of luxury and upper-upscale hotels, Host is setting an example for the broader hospitality industry.

The company’s emphasis on sustainability also extends to its partnership with local communities, through initiatives such as supporting local businesses and prioritizing responsible tourism. With these efforts, Host Hotels & Resorts continues to drive positive change in the hospitality sector while creating long-term value for shareholders and stakeholders alike.

About S&P Dow Jones Indices

S&P Dow Jones Indices is the world’s leading resource for index-based data and research, home to some of the most influential financial market indicators, including the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average. S&P Dow Jones Indices is part of S&P Global, a leading provider of essential financial intelligence for individuals, companies, and governments.

About Host Hotels & Resorts

Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. is a prominent S&P 500 company and the largest lodging real estate investment trust (REIT) in the U.S. The company owns 76 properties in the United States and five properties internationally, totaling approximately 43,400 rooms. Host Hotels & Resorts also holds non-controlling interests in seven domestic and one international joint ventures. With a focus on luxury and upper-upscale hotels, Host is one of the largest owners of premium hotels globally.

Conclusion

The recognition of Host Hotels & Resorts on the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index highlights the company’s unwavering commitment to environmental and social responsibility. By continuing to drive sustainability across its operations, the company is setting a benchmark for corporate responsibility in the global hospitality industry. Host’s success in achieving these milestones demonstrates its ongoing dedication to creating positive impacts within its communities and the environment, ensuring long-term growth and sustainable practices across its global portfolio.

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