Starwood Hotels & Resorts has reduced carbon emissions by 16 percent, water use by 17 percent and energy use by 12 percent across all owned, managed and franchised properties from 2008 through 2014.
The reductions stem from Starwood’s 30/20 by 20 environmental goals, launched in 2009, to cut energy use by 30 percent and water use by 20 percent by 2020 globally. In 2013, Starwood added a goal to reduce carbon emissions by 30 percent during the same timeframe.
Starwood has made reductions through initiatives such as installing low-flow fixtures and faucets, installing high-efficiency LED lighting, and enhancing or replacing mechanical systems. In most properties, these foundational initiatives account for approximately one-third of the progress toward the hotel chain’s goals and are projected to save $1 billion across the portfolio in less than 10 years.
The Sheraton Santa Fe in Mexico City has been exemplary in helping the hotel company meet its sustainability goals. Between 2008 and 2014, the property cut carbon emissions by just over 35 percent, water consumption by almost 40 percent and energy use by 26 percent by installing LED lighting, motion sensors and low-flow faucets, recycling soapy water and using rainwater collection. It also re-engineered its water heaters and installed control systems. The next project on the property’s agenda is replacing the chillers.
Starwood debuted its eco-conscious Element brand of hotels in Suzhou, China, earlier this month.
