IHG Unveils Low Carbon Pioneers Programme to Lead Sustainable Hospitality

IHG Hotels & Resorts has introduced its Low Carbon Pioneers programme, a forward-thinking initiative that unites energy-efficient hotels committed to eliminating on-site fossil fuel combustion and exclusively utilizing renewable energy sources. This program is designed to showcase and support hotels that are leading the way in sustainable operations, setting new standards for the industry.

The inaugural members of the Low Carbon Pioneers programme include:

• Kimpton BEM Budapest, Hungary
• Iberostar Waves Cristina, Spain
• Holiday Inn Express Madrid Airport, Spain

These pioneering hotels are taking significant steps toward sustainability by implementing advanced technologies such as high-efficiency heat pumps for heating and hot water generation and fully electric kitchens. They will utilize IHG’s Green Engage platform to meticulously track and measure energy usage, providing valuable data that will guide future sustainability efforts.

In addition to their energy-saving initiatives, each hotel is required to hold an operational sustainability certification recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, such as Green Key, or a sustainable building certification like LEED, BREEAM, or EDGE. Newly opened hotels joining the programme have a 12-month window to achieve certification, ensuring they meet IHG’s stringent environmental standards.

IHG’s goal is to inspire other properties within its portfolio to follow suit and join the Low Carbon Pioneers programme. In areas where fully renewable energy sources are not yet available, IHG is preparing a group of “low carbon ready” hotels. These hotels are strategically positioned to transition to full renewable energy use as soon as it becomes feasible in their respective regions.

Elie Maalouf, CEO of IHG Hotels & Resorts, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “We are excited to launch our Low Carbon Pioneers programme as another innovative way in which we’re meeting evolving guest expectations, helping our hotel owners future-proof their businesses and reducing carbon across our estate. This is an important next step in IHG’s sustainability journey but it remains one of many we must continue to take.”

IHG is committed to working closely with industry bodies and governments to facilitate broader access to renewable energy, provide incentives for hotel owners, and reduce the cost of sustainable technologies. By marketing these hotels as low carbon or low carbon-ready across its booking channels, IHG aims to attract eco-conscious travelers and set a benchmark for sustainable hospitality practices.

The programme’s full criteria, including the five essential requirements for joining, are available for interested hotels, encouraging widespread adoption of carbon reduction practices within the industry.