Hotel groups doing their bit to save water and energy, reduce waste and single-use plastics
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, hotels across the UAE are ramping up efforts to reduce waste, save energy and support local sustainability goals.The First Group Hospitality has placed sustainability at the core of its UAE operations.
"Through our recycling programme, we have introduced structured waste separation and partnered with Veolia to divert significant volumes of food waste from landfill," Tom Stevens, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations at The First Group Hospitality, told Aletihad . Energy and water-saving systems, solar integration, and a growing network of electric vehicle charging stations are also being introduced across the group's properties.In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Dubai Sustainable Tourism strategy, The First Group Hospitality is also moving away from single-use plastics and embracing sustainably sourced materials in their properties."Our aim is not simply to adapt to shifting expectations, but to lead with purpose and ensure that exceptional hospitality is delivered with lasting environmental responsibility," Stevens said.Barceló Al Jaddaf, part of the global Barceló Hotel Group, is equally committed to local impact and environmental stewardship.According to Eduardo Espiritusanto, General Manager of Barceló Al Jaddaf, the hotel sources at least half of its fruit and vegetables from local producers.
"In addition to this, the property has implemented a series of measures to reduce water and energy consumption, such as the installation of solar panels in the hotel and the use of high-pressure shower beads in the bathrooms of all rooms, reducing water consumption by 50%," Espiritusanto told Aletihad . Beyond infrastructure, Barceló Al Jaddaf also participates in community initiatives, including Earth Hour, Tree Planting Day, and food donations to the UAE Food Bank.DoubleTree by Hilton Jumeirah Beach is also playing a key role in driving hospitality sustainability forward in the UAE.
"At our hotel, we have phased out single-use plastics by observing dedicated 'No Plastic Days' and replacing disposable items with reusable alternatives," Elif Yazoglu, General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Jumeirah Beach, told Aletihad . "Every plastic container is segregated through our structured recycling programme and handed over to certified vendors, ensuring that no plastic waste ends up in landfill or our oceans."In line with the World Environment Day 2025 theme, "Beat Plastic Pollution", the hotel takes part in campaigns such as "Recycle. Reforest. Repeat", where each 1,000kg of collected cartons funds the planting of a tree in partnership with the Emirates Environmental Group."Beyond plastic reduction, we support the nation's broader sustainability goals through energy-efficient technologies, such as 100% LED lighting, motion-sensor fixtures, 3M heat-resistant window film, and a Building Management System that optimises cooling," Yazoglu said.The hotel also offers on-site electric vehicle charging stations and converts non-recyclable waste into energy, in collaboration with Dubai Municipality under its "No Waste to Landfill" policy.
"By integrating responsible waste management, circular-economy practices, and energy-saving initiatives across our operations, we proudly contribute to a greener UAE and a future free of plastic pollution," Yazoglu said.
Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
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