Sustainability_1940857408_II

Love Nature

Love Nature – Sustainability Starts Here

At Interhome, we believe protecting our planet is everyone’s responsibility. We’re committed to sustainable tourism - caring for biodiversity, reducing carbon emissions, and regularly reviewing our local service offices. We educate our teams, inform our guests about sustainability in every holiday home, and support our owners in creating more sustainable stays. See how we’re shaping a more responsible way to travel - today and for the future.

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Climate Change & Tourism

Climate change results from rising greenhouse gases that warm our planet and disrupt natural systems. The accommodation sector contributes significantly through energy use and fossil fuels. By embracing sustainable practices - like renewable energy, reduced consumption, and less waste - we can help protect the environment and make tourism part of the solution.


Peat Bog Restoration in La Gruère, Switzerland

When staying in our holiday homes, guests can directly support climate protection with a donation for the restoration of the La Gruère peat bog in the Jura region. Together with our partner myclimate, we help reduce CO₂ emissions, promote biodiversity, and improve water management.
Peatlands cover only 3% of the Earth’s surface but store 30% of its soil carbon - making their protection vital for the climate. Restoring these unique ecosystems also benefits local wildlife, flood protection, and the surrounding landscape.
Your contribution helps close the funding gap for this important project and supports sustainable development in Switzerland and beyond.

Climate Change & Biodiversity

Climate change is disrupting ecosystems and threatening biodiversity - the rich variety of life on Earth. As habitats shrink and species decline, natural attractions that draw travellers, such as coral reefs and wildlife areas, are also at risk. Tourism both depends on and impacts nature. By reducing emissions and supporting sustainable practices, the industry can help protect biodiversity and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy our planet’s natural beauty.

Save the Bees – Save Our Earth

Bees are vital for our planet’s balance. Since 2022 we have been creating 100,000 m² of flowering fields in Austria with our partner BEESark each year to protect bee populations and enhance biodiversity. These regional wildflower meadows capture CO₂, release oxygen, and provide essential habitats for rare species. Two groups of Interhome employees from different countries travelled to Carinthia by train to take part in a week dedicated to biodiversity and sustainability. Together with our partner BEESark we learned about beekeeping and visited the large wildflower meadows, a vital habitat for bees and millions of other insects. Each year around 200 tons of CO₂. was saved and reduced through our initiative. In addition to learing more about bees, we helped prepare permaculture gardens and planted 50 young trees to promote diverse, climate-resilient forests. These initiatives reflect our commitment to protecting biodiversity and reducing carbon emissions.

Learn more about our project >>


Matthias R. Breznik, founder and owner of BEESark:

"BEESark greatly appreciates that Interhome not only finances its projects but also personally inspects them on-site with a dedicated group of employees, actively participating in the work. The group’s commitment and positive attitude are truly inspiring. Particularly noteworthy is Interhome’s genuine interest and personal inspection of regional environmental protection projects, which is reflected in their energetic support of various initiatives." 

Bird Conservation in Tyrol

Together with our partner BEESark, Interhome has launched a bird conservation project in Tyrol to help protect Austria’s endangered bird species - half of which are at risk of extinction. We’ve installed 1,065 nesting boxes on fruit trees across the region to create safe habitats for bird families. Each box is numbered, maintained, and monitored annually to ensure long-term success. This project reflects our commitment to expanding biodiversity and protecting nature for the future.

Learn more about our project >>

Local Certifications

Biopshere Certificate

Over 400 Barcelona companies hold the Biosphere Certification, joining 500+ others committed to sustainable, responsible tourism aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Barcelona Biosphere businesses support the 2030 Agenda, promoting fair and balanced activity across the city and region. Interhome earned its Biosphere Certification in since 2023, reaffirming our commitment to sustainable tourism. The certification is renewed annually with evolving standards, driving continuous improvement, innovation, and awareness in everything we do.

Learn more >>

We are Swisstainable!

In March 2025, all 16 Interhome locations in Switzerland - including our Glattbrugg headquarters - achieved Swisstainable Level 1, recognizing our commitment to sustainable tourism.
As part of the national Swisstainable program, we promote responsible travel by:

  • Encouraging guests to use public transport
  • Gathering feedback on sustainability
  • Displaying the accommodation’s carbon footprint transparently

Reducing Our Environmental Impact

To improve our environmental impact, we have thoroughly assessed each office within our organization. This includes evaluating the electricity source, heating systems, and even smaller details like paper and cleaning supplies. Armed with this valuable information, we are creating clear guidelines to drive environmental improvements in our offices. By understanding the environmental implications of our operations, we can implement targeted strategies to reduce our ecological footprint. This involves optimizing energy sources, improving heating system efficiency, adopting sustainable paper alternatives, and using eco-friendly cleaning supplies. These steps are essential for aligning our offices with sustainable practices and minimizing our overall environmental impact.
Our goal is to lead by example through responsible resource management and waste reduction, proving that small changes can create a big impact. 

Tips to save energy

Impending energy shortages concern us all – let's save electricity together.

Here are 5 simple but effective tips on how to save electricity during your holiday:

  • Use the air conditioning as little as possible. Do not forget to turn it off when doors or windows are open or when you leave the house or apartment.
  • Choose the right temperature. Please stay above 22 °C during summer and below 22 °C during winter.
  • Unplug unused appliances. Appliances such as coffee makers, toasters or laptops may continue to draw power even when turned off.
  • Use a clothesline or drying rack. Let the laundry air dry instead of using the tumble dryer.
  • Lights off! Don’t forget to turn off the lights when not required

Tips to save water

Water shortages and severe drought situations are an increasing problem – help us save water:

  • Do not waste drinking water. You can for example turn off the water while brushing your teeth.
  • Avoid unnecessary water consumption. Take a shower instead of a bath to save water
  • Fully load your appliances. Don't start your washing machine or dishwasher until you have a full load to wash.
  • Avoid excessive splashing and jumping in the pool. Water splashing outside the pool will evaporate.
  • Don't water the plants during the day. Watering plants at night prevents water from evaporating, plants take better advantage of the water and need less water overall.
  • Don't water the lawn in the garden at all. A brown lawn is the natural survival mechanism of grass.
  • Wash your car only when absolutely necessary. Use public car washes for this.
  • Please note that there are local restrictions on water usage that must be complied with.

Your role in creating a sustainable stay for your guests


Swimming Responsibly: Sustainable Choices for Holiday Home Pools
Owning a private pool is a luxury that can be made more sustainable with thoughtful choices. In periods of drought, local rules may restrict filling or refilling pools, so it’s wise to plan ahead. Choosing a pool size that fits your real needs helps save both water and energy. Installing solar panels or using a green energy provider can reduce the environmental impact of heating your pool.

Water efficiency

  • Use a pool cover to reduce evaporation - this also helps keep the water cleaner.
  • Check regularly for leaks to avoid hidden water loss.
  • Install a backwash recycling system if you have a sand filter, so you don’t waste water during cleaning. 

Energy efficiency

  • Use a variable-speed pump - these consume far less electricity than traditional single-speed pumps.
  • Optimize filtration schedules so the pump runs only as long as necessary.
  • Choose high-efficiency pool heaters if solar alone isn’t enough.

Chemicals and materials

  • Use saltwater chlorination or mineral systems to reduce the use of harsh chemicals.
  • Opt for eco-friendly cleaning products around the pool area.
  • Select durable, long-lasting pool materials that don’t require frequent replacement.

Landscaping and surroundings

  • Plant drought-resistant vegetation around the pool area to save water.
  • Provide natural shade (trees, pergolas) to reduce water evaporation and heat gain.

Sustainable Tips for Installing an E-Charging Station

  • Choose an energy-efficient charger that matches your actual needs (e.g., a smart charger with scheduling options and an easy handling, f.e. by your guests credit card).
  • Use renewable energy by installing solar panels or selecting a certified green energy provider.
  • Place the charger in a sheltered location to protect it from weather and avoid unnecessary energy losses.
  • Maintain cables and equipment regularly to ensure safe and efficient operation.
  • Provide clear instructions for guests so the charger is used correctly and efficiently.
  • Future-proof your setup by choosing a charger with software updates or replaceable components to extend its lifespan.
  • Avoid oversizing the installation - select the charging capacity that truly fits your guests usage patterns.

Together for People & Planet  

At Interhome, we believe great holidays go hand in hand with responsibility. That’s why we support local projects, environmental initiatives, and community causes – with time, energy, and financial contributions. Whether it’s cleaning up beaches, protecting biodiversity, or helping those in need, every action reflects our commitment to making a positive impact where we live and work. 


The Interhome Sustainability Team is actively involved in the protection of the Llobregat Delta

The members of the Interhome Sustainability Team from across Europe spent a day volunteering in the Natural Areas of the Llobregat Delta, home to Catalonia’s stunning pine forests, dunes, and over 350 bird species. Working in the El Remolar lagoon and Filipines marsh, the team removed invasive plants like cacti to make room for native species such as sea holly and marram grass. In just three hours, they filled nine large bags of a total of 110 kg - an important step in preserving biodiversity and supporting habitat restoration.


Beach Clean-up: Interhome takes action on the Côte d’Azur

Two days of hands-on climate commitment: Interhome staff from 11 local service offices along the Côte d’Azur and three purchasers joined forces to clean up beaches in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer and Cavalaire.

Despite their clean appearance of the beaches, the teams collected glass, many small plastic items, cigarette butts, styrofoam – even heavy iron grids – and received heartfelt thanks from passers-by. The initiative was complemented by a Climate Fresk workshop, helping participants better understand climate change and take meaningful action.

Supporting local projects

Making Getaways Possible for Those Who Need Them Most

Holidays mean more than just relaxation – they bring freedom, new experiences, and shared memories, especially for families who rarely get the chance to travel. Interhome France is proud to support the initiative “Je pars, tu pars, il part” with a 3.000 EUR donation, giving low-income families the opportunity to enjoy a holiday stay, often for the very first time. Together, we’re creating places where everyone feels welcome.  
 

850 kg of waste pulled from Stockholm waters

Six Interhome Stockholm employees joined Hands2Ocean divers and volunteers to clean up Södermälarstrand in Stockholm – hauling an incredible 850 kg of waste from the water, including tires, batteries, and electronics. A huge thank you to everyone who rolled up their sleeves to protect the Stockholm waterways! 

Education through Climate Fresk Workshops

Every employee has the chance to take part in the Climate Fresk initiative - an interactive workshop that uses science-based discussions to explore the causes, impacts, and solutions to climate change. Through this collaborative experience, our team gains the knowledge and motivation to make informed, sustainable choices and contribute to a climate-resilient future.