Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has reduced its CO2 output by 8.4 percent, it announced yesterday. As a member of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Climate Savers program, Fairmont in 2006 became the first luxury hotel group to commit to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. It pledged to reduce its operational CO2 emissions by 20 percent below 2006 levels by 2013, and is now nearly halfway to its goal.
"Everyone can agree that the debate on climate change has shifted from it's here and real to how can we all contribute to a low-carbon future," said Fairmont President Chris Cahill. "The business community needs to step up and take a leadership position if we're going to affect any real, transformative change, and I'm very pleased that Fairmont has been able to take some positive steps in curbing its energy usage and lowering GHG emissions around the globe. From the daily efforts of our engineers to the determined conservation practices of our hotel-level green teams, we remain committed to persevering and protecting the destinations we call home."
Fairmont has achieved its CO2 reduction by implementing a number of key initiatives designed to help it reduce its carbon footprint. For instance, it has: created an internal framework for tracking, monitoring and reporting on key energy and carbon data; appointed regional champions to oversee audit and data controls; introduced an "Engineer of the Year" award to recognize outstanding environmental performance; adopted a formalized sustainable design and construction policy; and relocated its Toronto-based corporate headquarters to a LEED-certified building.
"As a member in WWF's global 'Climate Savers' program, Fairmont is advancing carbon management within its industry by committing to absolute emission reduction targets and demonstrating that cutting carbon yields a host of benefits — from cost savings to employee engagement and reputational benefits," said WWF Vice President of of Strategic Partnerships Hadley Archer.
Added Sarah Dayboll, Fairmont's director of environmental affairs, "Looking ahead, we're confident that we can reach our 20 percent reduction target in 2013 by continuing to focus our efforts on improved energy efficiency, increased conversion to low-carbon technologies and solutions, and by promoting conservation practices among our 30,000 colleagues worldwide."