As we just bid farewell to World Earth Day on April 22nd, 2024, the IBB Hotel Collection and Cugó Gran Collection are proud to reflect on the significant strides we’ve made in our sustainability journey over the past two years. With a steadfast commitment to reducing our environmental footprint and promoting responsible practices, we’ve embraced a range of initiatives aimed at fostering a greener, more sustainable future for hospitality.
Reducing carbon emissions and enhancing transparency
One of our proudest achievements is the reduction of our overall carbon emissions by 14% from 2021 to 2022, despite increased activity. This accomplishment is a testament to the targeted energy-cutting measures implemented at individual hotel levels. Moreover, the Group is on track to reducing its Scope 1 & 2 emissions further, with a 5.28% reduction in Scope 1 emissions and a 6.44% reduction in Scope 2 emissions from 2022 to 2023.
In 2023, we took a significant step forward in transparency by disclosing Scope 3 emissions separately from Scope 1 & 2 in the Annual Group-wide ESG report, which will be published on the Von der Heyden Group website. Additionally, we are providing detailed insights into our energy and water consumption, as well as our carbon footprint per square meter. This enhanced reporting allows us to better understand our environmental impact and identify areas for further improvement.
Essentially, Scope 1 emissions are those direct emissions that are owned or controlled by Von der Heyden Group, whereas Scope 2 and 3 indirect emissions are a consequence of the activities of the company but occur from sources not owned or controlled by it.
Highlights of our sustainability initiatives
Over the past two years, we’ve implemented a series of eco-actions aligned with our sustainability and social goals. These initiatives, executed monthly, have included:
- Integration with Treeapp for tree planting initiatives;
- Participation in local clean-up efforts;
- Charitable donations supporting environmental causes.
Moreover, we’ve embraced Measurabl, an ESG data collection and analytics platform, to track our carbon footprint, energy, and water usage across our portfolio. This tool has been instrumental in guiding our sustainability strategies and measuring our progress towards established goals.
We have also set clear targets for 2030 across various sustainability metrics, including energy and water consumption, carbon footprint, single-use plastics, food waste, and employee satisfaction. You can find detailed information about these goals on our website here.
Commitment to transparency and accountability
Monthly ESG reporting by our hotel general managers ensures ongoing monitoring of energy and water usage, labour practices, waste management, and food safety. This transparent approach underscores our dedication to accountability and continuous improvement.
Furthermore, our commitment to public reporting ensures that stakeholders are kept informed about our progress on ESG matters. The forthcoming ESG report for 2023 will provide comprehensive insights into our performance and initiatives.
Pioneering certifications and innovative practices
We’re also proud to announce that all of our hotels have achieved HRS Green Stay Certification, with most attaining the advanced level. This recognition highlights our commitment to sustainable practices and sets the stage for further certifications in the future.
In our pursuit of operational efficiency, we’re striving to go 100% paperless through the introduction of tablets at reception across our hotels. Additionally, we’re exploring the possibility of introducing new staff uniforms made from recycled linen, further aligning with our sustainability objectives.
Empowering guests and embracing eco-friendly practices
Through the introduction of guest signs and best-practice signage, we’re also empowering guests and staff alike to join us on our sustainability journey. From encouraging mindful water usage and food waste reduction to promoting ecological amenities and wooden key cards, we’re integrating sustainability into every aspect of the guest experience.
Furthermore, our commitment to offering more than half of our food options as vegetarian and/or vegan underscores our dedication to sustainable and ethical dining practices.
As we celebrate World Earth Day 2024, we reaffirm our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. With a focus on transparency, accountability, and innovation, we’re proud to lead the way towards a greener, more sustainable future for the hospitality industry and our planet.