Latest news with #GreenGrowth2050
Zawya
22-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
GHA's green collection more than doubles in size, reflecting hotel brands' commitment to sustainable hospitality
GHA DISCOVERY's 30 million members make conscious and responsible travel choices, as stays at Green Collection hotels increase by 16% in 2024 GHA DISCOVERY members will earn a D$5 bonus for each Green Collection hotel stay from 14th April through 31st May 2025 Dubai, UAE: UAE-based Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands, has announced significant growth of its Green Collection. Since its launch in March 2023, the collection has expanded by 150%, growing from 189 hotels, resorts and palaces to 472. This rapid expansion underscores the increasing importance of sustainability in the hospitality industry. Every Green Collection property has attained at least one certification from a globally recognised environmental organisation, with EarthCheck, Green Growth 2050, Green Key and Green Globe among the 20 leading certification bodies represented, and each requiring hotels to meet the highest international standards for sustainability initiatives and performance, with regular third-party audits conducted to retain certification. Achieving certification demonstrates a hotel's long-term pledge to upholding these standards, with each Green Collection property being a pioneer of practices that preserve the natural environment and benefit local communities in the destinations where they operate. 'The constant growth of the Green Collection is a powerful testament to the shared commitment among our brands to responsible travel,' said Jelena Kezika, Senior Director Strategy at GHA. 'In just two years, the Collection has grown to represent more than half of our global portfolio, proving that sustainability is not only a priority but a defining pillar of hospitality today. While Green Collection was created to help conscious consumers make more informed choices, it also supports our hotels on their sustainability journeys - by working together, sharing best practices and success stories, and guiding one another on meaningful initiatives that expand our collective impact. I want to sincerely thank and congratulate our hotel brands for being true champions of sustainability and for driving positive impact in the communities they serve.' From city breaks to seaside escapes and business stays to leisure getaways, the collection is geographically diverse and is present in 60 countries and 260 destinations, spanning every region. In Europe, Green Collection properties account for 81% of GHA's portfolio, followed by the Middle East with 58% and Africa at 46%. Spain leads the way, offering the highest number of Green Collection hotels (74), followed by Italy (57), Germany (54), and The Netherlands (35). This geographical spread highlights a strong commitment to sustainability across key European markets. Further strengthening the Green Collection's impact, three prestigious brands - Paramount Hotels, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, and Lore Group - joined in 2024, introducing their first hotels to the collection. In total, 25 out of 45 GHA brands now offer properties that are part of the Green Collection. Sustainability is proving to be a significant factor in guest preferences, as evidenced by a notable increase in key performance indicators. In 2024, the average length of stay at Green Collection hotels was 9% longer compared to other hotels in the alliance, while the average spend per stay was 26% higher. Additionally, total stays at Green Collection properties increased by 16% in 2024 compared to 2023, further demonstrating the growing appeal of eco-conscious accommodations. The hotels in Green Collection continue to be a cornerstone of GHA's success, contributing 71% of the total revenue generated and 68% of the total nights stayed across the entire GHA hotel portfolio in 2024. 'As travelers increasingly expect to see eco-friendly choices from their favourite hospitality and travel brands, Green Collection remains at the forefront of sustainable hospitality, demonstrating that luxury and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand', concluded Kezika. In September 2023, GHA started its partnership with EarthCheck, the leading scientific benchmarking and certification group for sustainable travel and tourism. This collaboration is part of GHA's commitment to achieving EarthCheck Certified status for its Dubai headquarters. To support this goal, GHA formed a dedicated Green Team, consisting of departmental champions, whose role is to drive the certification process and embed sustainability initiatives across the company. This week, GHA is proud to share that its Dubai office has been EarthCheck certified, marking a significant milestone in its journey toward greater environmental and social responsibility. The milestone also comes at a meaningful moment, aligning with the second anniversary of the Green Collection and Donate D$ initiatives. To celebrate this occasion, GHA DISCOVERY members earn a D$5 bonus for each Green Collection hotel stay booked and completed during the period from 14th April through 31st May 2025. Examples of Green Collection Hotels' sustainability efforts: NH Collection Copenhagen 's building, originally built in the 1960s, underwent a total transformation. Now, this luxury hotel pioneers sustainability innovation in Denmark. The building is equipped with green plant roofs, seawater cooling, a climate-proof facade, and more. Since 2023, its electricity consumption has been covered by renewable energy. Sustainability is at the heart of The Sukhothai Shanghai hotel's operations. From green architecture and energy-saving techniques to environmentally friendly practices, every aspect of the hotel promotes a sustainable lifestyle. The hotel is leading the way in conversation and has implemented a rainwater irrigation system, a rooftop solar power system for water heating, and removed all plastic bottles from its premises. Kempinski Seychelles Resort has adopted many sustainable practices, reducing resource consumption, fostering biodiversity and collaborating with local communities to support long-term environmental and social well-being. From the use of locally made products and natural ingredients in their spa to solar panels on the property roofs, an on-site water treatment plant that recycles water, coral planting and accessible tours to learn about the marine conservation efforts, the resort is truly committed to protecting the planet. Environmental sensitivity, responsible consumption, and resource efficiency have helped steer The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts' sustainability efforts. The Leela Palace Bengaluru is powered mainly by renewable energy, with 90% of the Palace running on wind energy. The Leela Palace Udaipur, repeatedly awarded as one of the best hotels in the world, is the only hotel to ply electrically operated boats on Lake Pichola. In The Leela's commitment to a circular economy, they've partnered with Phool to transform florals adorning their properties at end-of-life into something extraordinary. Using Phool's innovative 'Flowercycling' technology that integrates principles of the circular economy, they upcycle these flowers into charcoal-free incense sticks and cones that do not produce harmful toxins when burnt, reducing waste and eliminating pollutants. This initiative extends beyond environmental impact; it empowers women entrepreneurs trained to meticulously craft these incense products. One Hundred Shoreditch has committed to becoming a fully sustainable hotel through various initiatives, such as introducing fully renewable electricity consumption, an energy-efficient air management system, and recyclable waste management. Lore Group is focused on reducing its carbon footprint through working with expert organisations, aiming to reduce its emissions at source by adopting renewable energy for electricity throughout the portfolio. PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering is an iconic eco-friendly hotel in Singapore with a stunning 'hotel-in-a-garden' concept that incorporates energy-saving features and seamlessly blends cutting-edge environmentally-friendly practices and technologies throughout the building, Awarded 'World's Leading Green City Hotel' in the prestigious World Travel Awards, the hotel positions Singapore as a world leader of green high-rise developments. Corinthia Hotels has developed and updated its comprehensive sustainability strategy for the organisation in 2024, in line with the newest regulatory reporting obligations. The installation of PV panels on both Corinthia properties in Malta, Corinthia Palace and Corinthia St George's Bay, resulted in a reduction of tons of carbon dioxide emissions. -Ends- For more information on Green Collection, including the full list of globally recognised certifying bodies and examples of how GHA hotel brands are making a difference, visit For more information visit Global Hotel Alliance and GHA DISCOVERY GHA DISCOVERY is complimentary to join, and travellers can sign up online or download the GHA DISCOVERY app and register on their mobile phones. Travellers can also connect with GHA DISCOVERY on Instagram and Facebook. Media contact: Andrea Krenn E: About Green Collection Green Collection is a portfolio of hotels, resorts and palaces in the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme that demonstrate their commitment to protecting people and the planet. Certified by recognised environmental organisations, they are pioneers of sustainable practices and initiatives that protect the natural environment and benefit the local communities where they operate. Every property in the Green Collection has attained at least one globally recognised certification from leading entities including EarthCheck, Green Growth 2050, Green Key, and Green Globe. Green Collection empowers GHA DISCOVERY's 30 million members to make informed and responsible travel choices based on their values, beliefs and priorities. About GHA and GHA DISCOVERY: Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) is the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands with 45 brands and 850 hotels in 100 countries. Its award-winning loyalty programme—GHA DISCOVERY—provides 30 million members recognition, D$ rewards and exclusive experiences across its hotels and partners, both with and without a stay. GHA DISCOVERY generated US$2.7 billion in revenue and 11 million room nights in 2024. Through membership in GHA, brands expand their global reach, drive incremental revenue and reduce dependence on third-party channels, all while maintaining management independence and individual positioning. For more information, visit or
Trade Arabia
22-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
GHA Green Collection more than doubles in size
UAE-based Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands, has announced significant growth of its Green Collection. Since its launch in March 2023, the collection has expanded by 150%, growing from 189 hotels, resorts and palaces to 472. This rapid expansion underscores the increasing importance of sustainability in the hospitality industry, the group said. Every Green Collection property has attained at least one certification from a globally recognised environmental organisation, with EarthCheck, Green Growth 2050, Green Key and Green Globe among the 20 leading certification bodies represented, and each requiring hotels to meet the highest international standards for sustainability initiatives and performance, with regular third-party audits conducted to retain certification. Achieving certification demonstrates a hotel's long-term pledge to upholding these standards, with each Green Collection property being a pioneer of practices that preserve the natural environment and benefit local communities in the destinations where they operate, it said. 'The constant growth of the Green Collection is a powerful testament to the shared commitment among our brands to responsible travel,' said Jelena Kezika, Senior Director Strategy at GHA. 'In just two years, the Collection has grown to represent more than half of our global portfolio, proving that sustainability is not only a priority but a defining pillar of hospitality today. While Green Collection was created to help conscious consumers make more informed choices, it also supports our hotels on their sustainability journeys - by working together, sharing best practices and success stories, and guiding one another on meaningful initiatives that expand our collective impact. I want to sincerely thank and congratulate our hotel brands for being true champions of sustainability and for driving positive impact in the communities they serve.' From city breaks to seaside escapes and business stays to leisure getaways, the collection is geographically diverse and is present in 60 countries and 260 destinations, spanning every region. In Europe, Green Collection properties account for 81% of GHA's portfolio, followed by the Middle East with 58% and Africa at 46%. Spain leads the way, offering the highest number of Green Collection hotels (74), followed by Italy (57), Germany (54), and The Netherlands (35). This geographical spread highlights a strong commitment to sustainability across key European markets. Further strengthening the Green Collection's impact, three prestigious brands - Paramount Hotels, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, and Lore Group - joined in 2024, introducing their first hotels to the collection. In total, 25 out of 45 GHA brands now offer properties that are part of the Green Collection. Sustainability is proving to be a significant factor in guest preferences, as evidenced by a notable increase in key performance indicators. In 2024, the average length of stay at Green Collection hotels was 9% longer compared to other hotels in the alliance, while the average spend per stay was 26% higher. Additionally, total stays at Green Collection properties increased by 16% in 2024 compared to 2023, further demonstrating the growing appeal of eco-conscious accommodations. The hotels in Green Collection continue to be a cornerstone of GHA's success, contributing 71% of the total revenue generated and 68% of the total nights stayed across the entire GHA hotel portfolio in 2024. 'As travelers increasingly expect to see eco-friendly choices from their favourite hospitality and travel brands, Green Collection remains at the forefront of sustainable hospitality, demonstrating that luxury and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand', concluded Kezika. In September 2023, GHA started its partnership with EarthCheck, the leading scientific benchmarking and certification group for sustainable travel and tourism. This collaboration is part of GHA's commitment to achieving EarthCheck Certified status for its Dubai headquarters. To support this goal, GHA formed a dedicated Green Team, consisting of departmental champions, whose role is to drive the certification process and embed sustainability initiatives across the company. This week, GHA's Dubai office has been EarthCheck certified, marking a significant milestone in its journey toward greater environmental and social responsibility. The milestone also comes at a meaningful moment, aligning with the second anniversary of the Green Collection and Donate D$ initiatives.
Zawya
13-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Minor Hotels MEA: Setting the benchmark for sustainable hospitality and Green Growth 2050 certification
Dubai: Minor Hotels, a global hospitality group that owns and operates hotels in 58 countries across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Indian Ocean, is a proud leader in sustainable hospitality. In recognition of Minor Hotels' global commitment to responsible travel, 30 of its properties now hold Green Growth 2050 Platinum certification. This significant benchmark is reflected in the notable achievements of Minor Hotels Middle East and Africa (MEA), which is delighted to announce the confirmation of 25 certified properties: 12 of which attained Platinum with nine hotels and resorts receiving Gold. Most recently in December 2024 Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas was added to the scheme's most distinguished Platinum list, in addition to Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka, bringing the total hotels with Platinum certification to 30. Aligned with internationally recognised standards, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals, UN Global Compact and recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria for Hotels and Tour Operators, Green Growth 2050 is a comprehensive, independent certification programme encompassing over 400 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainability indicators. Awarded by VisionCSR, Green Growth 2050 represents one of the most extensive frameworks in the sector, creating a trusted metric which empowers consumers to make informed choices. For Minor Hotels, these certifications assure guests and stakeholders of the brand's unwavering dedication to sustainability. By fostering transparency and accountability across the industry, and rewarding the success of the world's leading hotels, they demonstrate that balancing luxury with environmental and social responsibility is not only possible, but essential for the future of hospitality. Key Achievements of Minor Hotels MEA Platinum Certified Properties: Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort Pioneering energy integration and waste reduction strategies, these hotels are leading the way in delivering uncompromising comfort and hygiene with increased efficiency and lower impact. In addition to scoring Platinum with Green Growth 2050, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort has been recognised with Gold certification for The PLEDGE on Food Waste for its management practices. NH Collection Dubai The Palm Designed and engineered with sustainability at its centre, the Middle East's first NH Collection property achieved Platinum status in its first year of operation. From a host of green initiatives including an on-site water bottling facility, the hotel on Palm West Beach has been noted for delivering an 84% reduction in staff canteen food waste and employing advanced monitoring technology to repurpose waste into compost. Avani + Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites Avani+ Palm View Dubai, a Platinum status hotel and a regional leader in sustainability, utilises high solar reflective index materials to reduce air conditioning energy consumption, along with other foundational sustainability initiatives. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara Using a circular economy approach to make a positive impact in its secluded location, this property located high in the dunes of the Empty Quarter uses a food waste composter to transform organic waste into nutrient-rich compost for growing fruits and vegetables. This ensures minimal environmental impact and aids the farming of local produce. Dates, tomatoes and many other vegetables from the hotel's garden are now found in the resort's kitchens. Research into desert-adapted native plants and a solar driven well provide a welcome oasis for the region's wild sand gazelle and Arabian oryx. Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Harnessing the opportunities of their private island home, the sister resorts of Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort, and Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara have complemented their wildlife conservation efforts by incorporating future-proofing renewable energy solutions. Showcasing the potential of locally produced green energy for luxury resorts, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island produces a significant portion of on-site power from a 45 MW wind turbine and a 14.8 MW solar field while drinking water for wildlife is sourced by harnessing the sun's power and the island's humid air in state-of-the-art condensers. Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort Celebrating its enviable position in Oman's Hajar Mountains, this ultra-luxury retreat is safeguarding the unique biodiversity of the region through advanced water treatment and conservation strategies. Daily-use produce is also cultivated within the resort grounds through a chef's garden, hydroponic farm, olive groves and beehives. The resort actively supports and celebrates the local community's cultivation of iconic damask roses and globally renowned rose water. Green Growth 2050 Platinum certification has also been awarded to Anantara Downtown Dubai Hotel, Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, and Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas – each satisfying over 90% of the tested indicators and demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement. Minor Hotels MEA Gold standard hotels, which surpass at least 80% of the scheme's sustainability targets, are Avani Ibn Battuta Dubai Hotel, Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort, Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, Avani Victoria Falls Resort, Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara, Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara, Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino and Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort, which opened in late 2023 and has also earned LEED Gold certification for its energy-efficient systems and water conservation initiatives. "We are honoured and grateful for so many of our Middle East and Africa hotels to receive the highest levels of Green Growth 2050 certification in commendation of the work and innovation carried out by our talented teams,' said Amir Golbarg, Senior Vice President, Minor Hotels Middle East & Africa. By embracing new technology such as AI, smarter planning, and closed-loop systems, Minor Hotels is already taking the next steps in cultivating a sustainable future across its portfolio and was recently featured in The National for the trailblazing initiatives to reduce food waste at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort and NH Collection Dubai The Palm, alongside other UAE properties. By embedding sustainability into every level of its operations, and working in partnership with Sustainability Kiosk advisors, Minor Hotels MEA is advancing sustainable hospitality and setting a global benchmark for responsible tourism. For more information, visit Minor Hotels Sustainability Initiatives. -Ends- About Minor Hotels Minor Hotels is a global hospitality group operating over 560 hotels, resorts and residences in 58 countries, pursuing its vision of crafting a more passionate and interconnected world. As a hotel owner, operator and investor, Minor Hotels fulfils the needs and desires of today's global travellers through its diverse portfolio of eight hotel brands – Anantara, Avani, Elewana Collection, NH, NH Collection, nhow, Oaks and Tivoli – and a collection of related businesses. Minor Hotels is rapidly accelerating its global growth ambitions, aiming to add more than 200 hotels by the end of 2026. Minor Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands, and participates in the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme. For more information, please visit and connect with Minor Hotels on Facebook and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, please contact D-SH Consultancy: Duaa Radwan E: duaa@ Rima Varghese E: rima@
