The hospitality industry is constantly evolving, and my passion for this field has driven me to seek opportunities where I can make a meaningful impact. One of the most rewarding experiences of my career was leading a transformative project with a remarkable team of professionals at Accor. This endeavor, which earned us the prestigious Bernaches Award, was titled “Dubai as a Lab” and was aligned with the COP 28 Conference, held in Dubai in November 2023.
We were selected from among the UAE’s hotels, and together, a dedicated team of eight spearheaded this initiative with a clear mission: to drive impactful sustainable practices across 81 hotels in the UAE. This ambitious effort not only showcased our commitment to sustainability but also highlighted the potential of the hospitality sector to lead by example in addressing global environmental challenges.
Elimination of Single-Use Plastics
One of our most significant achievements was the elimination of single-use plastics across participating hotels. By implementing innovative circular systems, such as filtered water solutions, we significantly reduced plastic waste. This change not only aligned with global environmental goals but also demonstrated our commitment to preserving the planet for future generations.
Reducing Food Waste
Addressing food waste was a core objective of the project. We implemented advanced monitoring and measurement systems across all properties, enabling us to track and minimize waste effectively. Through data-driven insights and best practices, we achieved tangible reductions in food waste, contributing to both environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.
Energy Efficiency
Minimizing energy consumption was another cornerstone of the project. Initiatives such as AC-level monitoring allowed us to optimize energy usage without compromising guest comfort. These efforts significantly reduced the carbon footprint of our operations and underscored our commitment to energy conservation.
Eco-Certifications
We prioritized achieving internationally recognized sustainability certifications for our properties. All participating hotels successfully obtained Green Key and Green Globe certifications, adhering to global standards.
Employee Education and Empowerment
Sustainability is only as effective as the people driving it. Recognizing this, we launched #SchoolForChange, a comprehensive climate change awareness program designed for General Managers and department heads. By fostering a deeper understanding of sustainability, this program empowered leaders to integrate eco-conscious practices into every aspect of hotel operations.
Guest Awareness Through Carbon Footprint Data
To engage guests in our sustainability journey, we measured the carbon footprint of 5,000 recipes and displayed this data on menus across participating properties. This transparency allowed guests to make dining choices aligned with their values and environmental consciousness.
Culinary Innovation with Low-Carbon Recipes
In collaboration with the #UAEChefsSquad, we developed an array of low-carbon recipes. These innovative dishes showcased how sustainability can inspire creativity in the culinary arts while reducing the environmental impact of our kitchens.
The Bernaches Awards, deeply rooted in Accor’s culture, recognizes the power of teamwork, creativity, and a strong sense of responsibility. The “Dubai as a Lab” project not only advanced sustainable practices within our hotels but also reaffirmed our commitment to creating a better and greener future for our industry and the communities we serve.
