Its properties are getting greener by the day, according to Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, which announced today that between 2008 and 2014 it reduced energy use by 12.08 percent, carbon emissions by 16.07 percent, and water use by 17.26 percent across all of its owned, managed, and franchised properties.
The reductions are part of Starwood's 30/20 by 20 environmental goals, launched in 2009 with the objective of reducing its portfolio's energy and water use by 30 percent and 20 percent, respectively, by 2020. In 2013, the company added a third goal: to reduce its carbon emissions by 30 percent during the same timeframe.
"We're pleased with the progress and are encouraged by the reductions we made while maintaining an aggressive global growth strategy," said Ken Siegel, chief administrative officer, general counsel, and head of global citizenship at Starwood. "Our 30/20 by 20 goals challenge us to create short- and long-term programs and partnerships that protect the environment, reduce operating costs, enhance the guest experience, and make sustainable upgrades possible for properties."
Starwood attributes its reductions to low-cost sustainable property improvements such as high-efficiency LED lighting and low-flow fixtures and faucets, as well as capital improvements like enhancing or replacing mechanical systems.
At properties like the Sheraton Santa Fe in Mexico City -- which has cut its energy use by 26.1 percent, its carbon emissions by 35.61 percent, and its water consumption by 39.33 percent -- such improvements have not only saved money, but also generated business.
"We had great savings in energy and water and that's helping our finances and driving business. The investments we've made help our top-line growth as more companies request information about our sustainable meeting practices before signing contracts," said Germán Angeles, the property's director of engineering and security. "Associates are looking at recycling, and saving water and energy differently. They are taking pride in their ability to protect the environment while still delivering an enhanced guest experience."
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