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Sustainability
Sustainability is a defining characteristic of the sharing economy, which Airbnb's operations model exemplifies. Based on this recognition, Airbnb has been pinpointed as a sustainable alternative to conventional accommodations, such as hotels. Studies, such as the Cleantech Groups 2018 analysis of Airbnb, have highlighted Airbnb’s efficient resource usage, citing that those accommodations on Airbnb’s platform consumed 12% less water than hotel accommodations per guest per night in North America, while the figure grew to a 48% decrease in water consumption compared to hotel accommodations in Europe. Additionally, properties listed on Airbnb’s platform consume roughly 63% less energy than traditional alternatives per guest per night in North America and 78% less energy in Europe. In 2020, a study focused on Sydney, Australia, concluded that Airbnb’s platform and its hosts contributed a direct and indirect carbon footprint of between 7.27 and 9.39 kg of CO2 per room per night.

Challenges of Digital Operations
Airbnb, while not owning or operating it's own data centers, plays a significant role in global data management through it's preference for outsourcing these services. These data centers, accountable for Airbnb's data processing and storage, are marked contributors to climate change. Data management facilities account for roughly 2.5% to 3.7% of global greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to Airbnb's scope 3 emissions, which account for roughly 96% of Airbnb's corporate emissions.

Climate Change's Impact on Airbnb
Climate change is influencing Airbnb and it's operations by warranting adaptations in it's current business model and service offerings to address environmental concerns, particularly those associated with travel and tourism. Airbnb acknowledges potential risks to it's operations stemming from the physical effects of climate change, which include more frequent and severe weather events, rising sea levels, and environmental degradation. These anticipated challenges may have material affects on Airbnb's business and operations by damaging host properties, limiting listings in affected areas, increasing operating costs and insurance, and potentially contributing to a decline in hosts and guests alike. Airbnb must emphasize the importance of adapting to these potential externalities to mitigate unfavorable effects on their business model and ensure the sustainability of their corporation.

Host Sustainability Efforts
A 2010 study suggests Airbnb hosts display a strong interest in environmental certification programs, suggesting a commitment to environmental sustainability practices. The results of the study align with a desire to adopt practices that not only reduce host environmental impact but also attract an influx of guests who value eco-friendly accommodation.

Sustainability Reporting
Sustainability reporting is pivotal, as it demonstrates a company's commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. For companies like Airbnb, transparent and consistent reporting promotes trust among all stakeholders, including both hosts and guests, by emphasizing an effort to minimize environmental impact from operations and promoting sustainable business practices. While Airbnb currently does not disclose extensive sustainability information, as an industry leader, Airbnb has the opportunity to embrace greater transparency, which may benefit both the company and the broader community.