The hotel industry faces the challenge of reducing its carbon emissions by 66% per room by 2030 and 90% by 2050, according to Sustainable Hospitality Alliance. With global tourism increasing its carbon footprint from 3.7 to 5.2 gigatonnes in recent years, the need to adopt new practices, including sustainable architecture, becomes imminent to comply with the Paris Agreement and meet the growing demand from travelers for eco-friendly options.
To achieve these goals, hotels have begun implementing innovative solutions. Among them are the use of renewable energies, LED lighting, efficient HVAC systems, and occupancy sensors to optimize energy consumption. Water-saving strategies have also been adopted, such as low-flow showers, rainwater harvesting, and water treatment plants for reuse. Waste reduction through composting and the elimination of single-use plastics has also become a priority.
LEED certifications (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) and the use of recycled materials in renovations are redefining the hotel industry’s relationship with the environment. In Argentina, an example of this trend is the remodeling of the Sheraton Buenos Aires Hotel & Convention Center, which aims to improve energy efficiency and responsible water management. Among its improvements are high-performance showers, dual-flush toilets, and low-flow faucets, reducing potable water consumption by up to 30%. Additionally, replacing windows in the hotel’s facade will contribute to a more efficient HVAC system.
“Our commitment is to offer high-quality experiences while incorporating more efficient and responsible practices into the environment. Every decision in the remodeling process aims at a modern design that ensures comfort and sustainability,” said Marcelo Adrian Bottazzini, Director of Engineering and sustainability at the Sheraton Buenos Aires Hotel.
**What is the SERVE program?**
The SERVE 360 program: Doing Good in Every Direction at the Sheraton Buenos Aires Hotel aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. “Through innovative technologies, we implement and monitor our actions to ensure responsible operations that benefit both our business and the community,” Bottazzini concluded.
With hotel operations consuming up to eight times more water than local communities in some areas, the water crisis emerges as one of the greatest environmental challenges. According to the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, global water demand will increase by 50% by 2030, making it imperative for the industry to adopt conservation strategies.
The shift towards sustainable hotel architecture is not only an environmental necessity but also a response to the sector’s expansion. With projects like the Sheraton Buenos Aires Hotel and innovative developments globally, the industry demonstrates that it is possible to combine comfort, technology, and ecological responsibility on its path towards a more sustainable future.
**What are the benefits of sustainable hospitality?**
Sustainable hospitality brings benefits:
– **Environmental:** contributes to combating climate change, preserves natural resources, helps conserve biodiversity, and protects ecosystems and landscapes.
– **Social:** promotes social inclusion, contributes to poverty reduction, strengthens local identity, favors the preservation of cultural heritage, and attracts more talent to the company.
– **Economic:** reduces long-term operating costs, contributes to the economic development of surrounding communities, and generates employment.
**Achieving sustainability**
– Using renewable energies
– Implementing energy efficiency practices
– Using water rationally
– Prioritizing local suppliers and labor
– Supporting community projects
– Promoting local culture
– Reducing paper usage
– Training potential candidates to provide needed services
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