ITC Hotels has firmly established itself as a global exemplar in sustainability by receiving the prestigious U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Leadership Award for Organizational Excellence in 2024—marking the brand first in India to receive this honour
ITC Hotels: The Rise of Responsible Luxury
This remarkable achievement underscores ITC Hotels’ long-standing dedication to environmental stewardship, a commitment that has spanned for over three decades and continues to set a benchmark for the global hospitality industry.
A Legacy of Responsible Luxury
For ITC Hotels, sustainability is not merely a goal, it is a way of life. The brand embraces the philosophy of “Responsible Luxury”, a pioneering concept that harmonises world-class hospitality with environmental stewardship. By blending the indulgence of luxury with the responsibility of sustainability, ITC Hotels has built its foundation as a trailblazer in green hospitality. Driven by its unwavering commitment to reducing its carbon emissions, conserving natural resources, and empowering local economies, ITC Hotels is transforming what it means to be a sustainable luxury brand. This philosophy has not only elevated guest experiences but also made a significant contribution to securing the future of our planet.
Leadership in Green Building Practices
The recognition by the USGBC underscores ITC Hotels’ achievements in advancing sustainable building practices. The brand has set new global standards with its groundbreaking efforts in sustainable hospitality.
With 23 of its properties holding the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum Certification, ITC Hotels is also a trailblazer in achieving LEED Zero certifications.
● With the World’s First 12 LEED Zero Carbon certifications hotels, and
● World’s first Five LEED Zero Water certifications, showcasing innovative and resource-efficient water management systems.
These accolades reflect ITC Hotels’ comprehensive approach to sustainability, addressing energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and carbon reduction.
Energy Conservation and Renewable Resources
ITC Hotels is committed to a Net-zero carbon future and has taken significant strides in both energy conservation and the transition to renewable sources. Over 50% of the energy consumed across its hotels is derived from renewable resources, including off-site wind turbine generators and solar farms. This shift not only reduces the brand’s carbon footprint but also sets a powerful example for the larger industry.
The integration of energy-efficient technologies into ITC Hotels’ infrastructure ensures that luxury experiences for guests are achieved without compromising the environment. From innovative building designs to state- of- art energy management systems, every facet of the brand’s operations reflects its commitment to sustainability.
Water Management and Zero Mile Initiatives
Water conservation is another area where ITC Hotels has made significant strides. Through its innovative SunyaAqua initiative, the bottled water removes reliance on plastic bottles and minimises transportation-related emissions. This “Zero Mile Water” solution not only ensures sustainable water use but also aligns with the brand’s broader objective of minimizing its Impact on the planet.
The achievement of the world’s first five LEED Zero Water certifications further underscores ITC Hotels’ leadership in sustainable water management. These certifications highlight the brand’s focus on reusing and recycling water to reduce wastage, ensuring the efficient use of this critical resource.
Pioneering Waste Management and Plastic Reduction
ITC Hotels’ waste management practices set a benchmark for the global hospitality sector. By recycling and reusing over 99% of the waste generated, the brand minimises its environmental impact and showcases the potential for a circular economy in the industry. The implementation of organic waste converters, bio-methanation plants, and other technologies ensures that waste is not just disposed of responsibly but also repurposed effectively.
In addition, ITC Hotels has eliminated single-use plastics. By identifying approximately 150 touchpoints, the brand replaced plastic usage with sustainable alternatives, mitigating nearly 2.5 lakh kilograms of usage annually. This effort illustrates ITC Hotels’ proactive approach to addressing global environmental challenges.
Local Sourcing: Sustainability with a Human Touch
By embedding local sourcing into its operations, ITC Hotels has successfully aligned its sustainability goals with community empowerment. At least 50% of food and beverage materials are procured from nearby communities. This practice not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and packaging but also uplifts local economies by supporting farmers and artisans.
Redefining Luxury: Comfort Meets Responsibility
ITC Hotels has redefined luxury by demonstrating that indulgence and sustainability can harmoniously coexist. Guests are invited to experience guilt-free luxury, where comfort is seamlessly integrated with environmentally responsible practices. From eco-friendly materials in construction to initiatives that promote mindfulness about resource consumption, every aspect of the guest experience is carefully crafted and designed to uphold the principles of responsible luxury.
A Continuous Journey Towards Sustainability
For ITC Hotels, sustainability is not a destination but a continuous journey. The brand remains steadfast in its commitment to setting higher benchmarks for itself and the hospitality industry. Looking ahead, ITC Hotels aims to expand its sustainable practices, leveraging innovation and collaboration to achieve even greater milestones.
The 2024 USGBC Leadership Award is a fitting recognition of ITC Hotels’ legacy of Responsible Luxury. It is a celebration of the collective effort of team members, partners, and patrons who champion sustainability alongside the brand. With its eyes set on the future, ITC Hotels continues to lead the way in creating a sustainable legacy for generations to come.
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