Green hospitality: Sustainability initiatives at Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport NEC
Many of us were captivated by the mesmerising documentaries of David Attenborough, inspired by the passionate speeches of Greta Thunberg, and moved by Hamza Yassin's dedication to environmental causes.
Alongside these influential figures, there are countless other advocates tirelessly championing environmental conservation.
Their efforts have sparked vital conversations about what actions we can take to preserve our planet for future generations, igniting a global movement towards environmental responsibility and sustainability.
Amidst a growing awareness of environmental concerns, businesses, especially within the hospitality sector, are undergoing a significant transformation.
They are acknowledging the critical role of environmental stewardship and embracing a culture of green engagement to minimise their environmental footprint.
Throughout Birmingham, a multitude of businesses are leading the way by implementing remarkable sustainability initiatives, serving as beacons of green engagement. Notably, the Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport NEC stands out as a shining example of such commitment to sustainability.
General manager of Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport, Jamie Evans, said: “Sustainability is at the heart of our business.
“It is not a trend but a conscious choice towards a greener future. We have made it our mission to prioritise sustainability, firstly by reducing our carbon impact and secondly so our guest’s and colleagues know they are contributing positively to the wonderful world we live in.
“Our journey continues, and although we have achieved a lot there is always so much more we can all do.
“This year our efforts are focusing on renewable energy, this includes capital spend on solar, battery storage and thermal enhancements throughout our hotel. We are excited and fulfilled to be on this journey. Working towards a more sustainable future makes sense for both our business and our planet”.
Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport NEC has embarked on a transformative approach towards becoming a beacon of green hospitality and it's worth delving into their current initiatives.
From the moment guests step foot into the Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport NEC, they are enveloped by a commitment to conservation and sustainability.
Energy-efficient lighting casts a soft glow along the corridors, automatically transitioning to sensor-activated mode at night to further optimise energy usage.
The hotel echoes natural daylight with expansive windows throughout its common areas, allowing ample sunlight to filter in and illuminate the space. Adding to this ethos, the hotel has installed four electric EV charging points and introduced eco-friendly key cards across all bedrooms, conference facilities, and the leisure centre.
Among the hotel's most impactful initiatives, is its participation in IHG's ‘Journey to Tomorrow’ program, where guests are encouraged to participate in towel and linen reuse programs.
Incentivised with bonus IHG points, guests play an active role in reducing waste and conserving resources. Complimentary toiletries are provided in refillable dispensers, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles, while plastic cups have been replaced with mugs and glassware.
Recognising the significance of guest travel in their overall carbon footprint, Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport NEC has partnered with ‘Tree-V’ to offset automotive emissions associated with guest travel.
This proactive approach ensures that the hotel takes responsibility not just for its own operations but also for the environmental impact of its guests' journeys. Guests are not merely passive recipients of the hotel's sustainability efforts; they are active participants in its mission to protect the planet.
The hotel's commitment to sustainability extends beyond initiatives aimed solely at guests; it is deeply ingrained in its day-to-day operations. Key performance indicators such as energy consumption, water usage, and waste diversion rates are closely monitored, allowing the hotel to continually improve and celebrate successes.
Recent investments in technology, such as self-check-in/out machines and QR code menus, not only enhance guest experiences but also contribute to significant reductions in paper waste. Additionally, the establishment of a Green Key engagement team ensures that sustainability remains a priority at every level of the organisation, with colleagues leading and educating their colleagues on sustainable practices.
Now, as we invite you to experience green hospitality firsthand, we encourage you to book your stay at the Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport NEC today.