Latest news with #GreenGlobeCertification
Tourism Breaking News
a day ago
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights celebrates a decade of sustainability excellence
Post Views: 49 Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights Hotel Suites and Apartments has enhanced its sustainable credentials by achieving platinum certification from the internationally renowned Green Globe Certification (GGC). The hotel is now one of only three hotels throughout the UAE that has achieved platinum certification and is in the top 5% globally, within the Green Globe programme, which is specifically designed for the travel and tourism industry. During an independent audit and assessment carried out by Green Globe's preferred partner in the Middle East, Dubai-headquartered sustainability consultancy Farnek, the property had complied with or exceeded more than 380 rigorous sustainability indicators. Farnek's dedicated team also supported hotel management with its Hotel Optimizer, a comprehensive and data-driven energy performance monitoring software tool. Through efficient measuring, tracking, monitoring, and benchmarking of energy and water consumption, as well as waste management, the hotel was able to calculate its carbon footprint during 2024 and then make an accurate comparison with its 2014 performance. • Total Energy Consumption reduced by 18.02% • Water Consumption trimmed by 4.1% • Total Utility Costs cut by 12.61% • CO2 emissions from utilities lowered by 6.53 % • CO2 emissions per guest reduced by 30.46% • Total waste generation slashed by 72.48% • Waste rebates increased by 48.08% • Waste diversion rate improved by 178.2% To achieve this outstanding performance, the hotel carried out multiple retrofits, such as chiller optimisation, frequency controls for fresh air handling units, and LED light installation. The hotel also managed to reduce water consumption by fitting 300 tap aerators and diverting its waste from landfills through innovative reduction and recycling initiatives. The hotel also offset 100% of the carbon emissions generated from business travel made by its management team. Levent Tasbas, General Manager at Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights, said: 'We are proud of our sustainability achievements over the past decade and we have now achieved platinum certification, one of only three hotels in the UAE to do so, which demonstrates our commitment to our long-term sustainability strategy.' The Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights Hotel Suites and Apartments is located on Sheikh Zayed Road in Barsha Heights, close to Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City. The four-star hotel consists of 1,015 suites and apartments over 41 floors and offers guests a variety of food and beverage options, a fitness centre and spa, outdoor swimming pool and meeting spaces for 100 delegates. Muna Al Nahdi, Director of Sustainability & Consultancy, Farnek, said: 'The management team at the Mercure Dubai Barsha Heights had a clear vision and long-term strategy to adopt sustainable practices, to not only reduce its impact on the environment, but to reduce its operational costs as well. 'By following its strategic path over the last ten years, the hotel has consistently improved its performance levels year after year, which has culminated in these exceptional results. In essence, this is a win-win situation, for the environment and the hotel's bottom line.' Having signed its original partnership agreement with Green Globe in 2009, Farnek has certified well over 100 hotels and leisure facilities in 38 cities across the MENA region. This has enabled members to save in excess of 180 million kWh of energy, worth over $20 million, and more than two million cubic metres of water, valued at approximately $5 million.
Tourism Breaking News
09-06-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Farnek achieves new business growth worth over AED 10 million in UAE hospitality sector
Post Views: 41 Farnek has witnessed significant new business acquisitions from the UAE's hospitality sector, valued at over AED 10 million so far during 2025. To service these contracts, 330 additional members of staff have been mobilised to sites across the UAE, bringing their total headcount now to over 10,000. This new business growth follows an outstanding year in 2024 when Farnek secured new and retained hospitality contracts valued at AED 72 million mobilising 450 staff. Farnek is a familiar service provider to most hospitality professionals in the UAE. Besides operational support, it is the preferred partner for Green Globe Certification, a premier worldwide sustainability certification developed especially for the travel and tourism industry. Farnek audits and assesses properties which have to comply with or exceed more than 380 rigorous sustainability indicators. Farnek has certified over 100 hotels and leisure facilities in 38 cities across the MENA region, enabling members to save in excess of 180 million kWh of energy, worth over $20 million and more than two million cubic metres of water valued at approximately $5 services to be provided include housekeeping staff, room attendants, public area attendants, technical staff, and stewards, who are all fully qualified and have been highly trained at Farnek's dedicated in-house training facility prior to deployment. According to Tamer Bishay, Director of Business Development at Farnek, the volume of contract wins underscores Farnek's strategic approach to business development, which is renowned for its innovative smart solutions, sustainability and value-driven FM market proposition. 'This is an exceptional performance, given we are not even halfway through the year. We have focused our efforts on the UAE's hospitality sector, given its rapid expansion and the integral role it plays in the UAE's economy. We have managed to increase our market share in this vertical sector considerably over the past months, and this bodes well for the second half of the year. 'Although the UAE hospitality sector is expanding at pace, competition is intense and hotels, residences, resorts and restaurants are always looking at ways to make their operations more efficient, sustainable and cost-effective without compromising on quality. Our fully trained, experienced and qualified staff can fulfil a variety of roles within the hospitality sector seamlessly.' Overall, Farnek has signed multiple new contracts with premier hospitality brands, including Kempinski, Sofitel, JW Marriott, Millennium, Emaar, Grand Hyatt, and Atlantis Dubai. In addition, just last year, HITEK AI, Farnek's sister company, launched its Housekeeping Plus solution, a smart mobile application which provides an efficient and cost-effective solution for the hospitality sector. The app, designed specifically for hotels and resorts, streamlines housekeeping operations and automates workflow.
Syyaha
23-04-2025
- Business
- Syyaha
Interview with General Manager – Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, Mr Slim Zaiane
'How does the hotel leverage customer feedback and trends to continuously improve guest experiences?' At Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, we view guest feedback as an essential tool for growth, with each comment carefully analyzed and shared across departments to drive meaningful improvements. We understand that offerings which resonated a few years ago may no longer align with the current interests of our guests; that's why we constantly introduce new concepts—whether in dining, wellness, or overall concierge experiences. By staying attuned to evolving trends and preferences, we ensure each stay remains personalized, relevant, and truly memorable 'Tell us a bit more about the level of importance for technology that plays in enhancing guest satisfaction and operational efficiency at your property?' Technology plays a vital role in both enhancing guest satisfaction and streamlining our operations at Kempinski Mall of the Emirates. Efficient communication platforms ensure that all relevant departments stay aligned on key aspects of daily operations—such as guest feedback, maintenance issues, and service requests—allowing us to respond promptly and proactively. That said, the true value of these tools lies in how they are used, which is why we place strong emphasis on accountability and proper use by our team members to maximize their impact. 'These days sustainability and the overall approach to responsible business is taking high level on day to day operations. Are there any highlights you would like to share about hotel's involvement in this specific area?' At Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, sustainability is a core pillar of our operations, and we are proud to continuously enhance our efforts while sharing our journey with guests through our dedicated sustainability page. In 2024, we achieved the prestigious Green Globe Certification in the Hotel and Resort category, along with Green Globe Gold Status—highlighting our long-term commitment to responsible management and environmental stewardship. We're also honored to be part of the GHA Discovery Program's Green Collection, which includes hotels recognized globally for their sustainability efforts We received the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp – Silver Status, awarded by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, for our compliance with 19 key sustainability criteria, supporting Dubai's vision as a leading sustainable destination. Our commitment is further reinforced through LEED certification, the world's most respected green building rating system, which guides us in operating a healthy, energy-efficient, and environmentally responsible property. These achievements not only reflect our dedication to a greener future but also contribute to guest loyalty, brand trust, and long-term business success. I encourage all to visit our dedicated Sustainability page on website: and discover more about all the initiates that are in place and what is planned What makes a property different from its competition in Dubai, and how does hotel continue to attract high-profile guests? What sets Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates apart is our unique fusion of exclusivity and accessibility. Adjoining to Mall of the Emirates, our guests have direct access to some of Dubai's most iconic lifestyle and entertainment experiences, all while enjoying the tranquility and luxury of a serene hotel atmosphere. This exceptional location allows us to offer the best of both worlds—convenience without compromise on luxury. Our property also stands out through exclusive experiences, such as the Aspen Ski Chalets, the VOX private cinema that are bringing back to operations by end of Q3, our award-winning dining concepts, and bespoke butler services—all of which cater to the discerning needs of high-profile travelers. These offerings ensure that every stay is both exceptional and unique. However, beyond these distinctive amenities, it is our team's unwavering passion for delivering personalized, memorable experiences that truly sets us apart. Our people's dedication to crafting unforgettable moments is what keeps our esteemed guests returning time and time again. As we all know Food & Beverage scene is one of the core focus for hotel overall and is being emphasized even more here in the UAE. Please highlight if there are any enhancements the hotel is going through and share a bit more about variety of the offerings: Experiential dining is quickly becoming a fundamental element of luxury hospitality. Guests are increasingly looking for a deeper connection to their food, whether through authenticity, sustainability, or cultural exploration. The trend is moving towards immersive dining experiences that narrate a story, engaging all the senses and creating lasting memories At Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, we are embracing this transformation by investing in distinctive, immersive dining experiences and culinary storytelling. We envision a future where food not only satisfies the taste buds but also acts as a bridge to cultural connections, emotional depth, and unforgettable experiences—all within a luxurious environment. As the five-star sector continues to evolve, we believe that this emphasis on experience-driven food and beverage offerings is a powerful way to enhance guest satisfaction and reinforce our leadership in luxury hospitality. In line with this vision, my team and I are currently developing an exciting new dining concept that will seamlessly integrate leisure and wellness—right in the heart of the city. Stay tuned, as we eagerly anticipate unveiling this unique experience in the coming months.
Associated Press
21-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Verdelago Resort: A Vision of Sustainable Luxury and Green Design
Verdelago Resort, the first Portuguese resort to integrate Green Globe's criteria from the design phase, has achieved its inaugural Green Globe certification. 'Sustainability has been a core priority at Verdelago since its inception. We uphold exceptional standards based on luxury that values the senses, experiences, and authentic human and local values.'— Paulo Monteiro, General Manager of Development SANTA MONICA, CA, UNITED STATES, April 21, 2025 / / -- Green Globe is proud to announce that Verdelago Resort in Portugal has achieved its inaugural Green Globe certification, validating the resort's commitment to sustainability. Situated between Altura and Praia Verde in the Eastern Algarve, Verdelago Resort spans over 80 hectares, with an environmentally conscious design that has been an integral part of the project from its inception. Reflecting on this achievement, Paulo Monteiro, Verdelago Resort's General Manager of Development, stated: 'It is with great satisfaction and pride that we receive Green Globe Certification. This recognition strengthens our commitment to sustainability at Verdelago and marks the completion of a long process that began in 2020. Obtaining this certificate proves our commitment to sustainability at all levels and is the result of the great effort made by a highly dedicated team, whose main objective has been to implement a strategy that not only reduces potential negative impacts but, above all, maximizes the positive impacts of the resort. This certification attests to a clearly positive overall impact on the environment and community in which it is located, particularly in terms of environmental and social aspects.' Verdelago is the first Portuguese 'Hotel & Resort' to have integrated Green Globe's rigorous sustainability criteria from the design phase. From the selection of materials and architectural considerations to the development of a solar plant, extensive tree planting, and the installation of advanced irrigation and energy management systems, every element of the resort's design reflects a strong environmental commitment. With only 9% of the property developed for accommodations and recreational infrastructure, Verdelago maintains a deep connection with nature, offering guests opportunities to explore scenic trails, pristine beaches, and wellness experiences amid the pine forest. Beyond environmental sustainability, Verdelago places a strong emphasis on community involvement. Approximately 50% of the resort's suppliers are local or regional enterprises, and the resort's on-site market showcases locally sourced and handmade products. The resort encourages guests to immerse themselves in the local culture through unique experiences, such as visiting a traditional cork factory or the historic salt pans where salt is still harvested by hand, enjoying a wine tasting at a nearby winery, or embarking on a solar-powered boat tour around the stunning Ria Formosa. Additionally, the resort has partnered with local sports teams, providing access to its sports center, and supports the Teach for Portugal Leadership Development Program in Castro Marim schools, which aims to reduce educational inequalities. Verdelago also prioritizes the well-being of its employees, fostering a workplace culture that values and recognizes its team. Initiatives such as monthly birthday celebrations, the 'You Are a Talented Person' recognition program, which honors dedicated employees with a gift card and a family breakfast at the resort, and post-season appreciation events highlight the resort's commitment to its staff. Sustainability remains at the core of Verdelago, with comprehensive training provided on health, safety, waste management, and energy conservation to empower employees in their sustainability efforts. Paulo Monteiro expressed, 'Sustainability has been a core priority at Verdelago since its inception, throughout all stages of design, construction, marketing, and tourism operations. At Verdelago, we uphold exceptional quality standards based on the concept simple, uncomplicated luxury that values the senses, experiences, and most authentic human and local values. We will continue advancing our sustainability strategy to become increasingly 'Green,' as our name suggests, further solidifying our position as a resort that exemplifies excellence in quality, luxury, and sustainability while deepening our positive impact on the entire community we are a part of.' Green Globe congratulates Verdelago Resort on this outstanding achievement and its outstanding dedication to sustainable tourism. About Verdelago Resort Situated between Altura and Praia Verde in the Eastern Algarve, Verdelago Resort spans over 80 hectares, offering direct beach access and a harmonious blend of nature and luxury. This 5-star resort features a variety of accommodations, including fully furnished townhouses and apartments, all designed in harmony with the natural surroundings. Amenities include a forthcoming 5-star hotel with 197 rooms, a gym, restaurants, a spa, and a 2-hectare lake situated within the Green Park, which encompasses approximately 37 hectares of green space with cycling and pedestrian paths, as well as leisure areas. Verdelago Resort is committed to sustainability, implementing strategies that ensure a significant positive impact on both the environment and the local community. For more information about Verdelago Resort and its sustainability initiatives, please visit About Green Globe Certification Green Globe Certification is the worldwide sustainability system based on internationally accepted criteria for sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism businesses. Operating under a worldwide license, Green Globe Certification is based in California, USA and is represented in over 83 countries. Green Globe is an Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). For information, please visit For media inquiries: Vera Marques Environmental & Sustainability Manager Verdelago Resort Monte Vale da Velha, Vale da Velha 8950-438 Altura, Algarve, Portugal Mobile: (+351) 930 437 700 Tel: (+351) 281 101 600 [email protected] Brad Cox Green Globe +1 310-337-3000 email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Associated Press
28-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach Leads the Way with Commitment to a Sustainable Future
Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach is thrilled to announce its inaugural Green Globe Certification. 'We're committed to creating meaningful experiences for our guests while protecting the environment and supporting our local community. ' — Brett Wilson, General Manager at Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach SANTA MONICA, CA, UNITED STATES, March 28, 2025 / / -- Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach is thrilled to announce its inaugural Green Globe Certification, a testament to its unwavering commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly hospitality. The resort is proud to provide a positive hospitality experience while safeguarding the planet's resources and supporting the local community. Brett Wilson, General Manager at Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach, encapsulated the resort team's motto, 'We're going Green because there is no Planet B'. A Legacy of Green Initiatives Sustainability has been a cornerstone of Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach's operations prior to achieving its Green Globe certification. Recognized for its efforts as early as 2017 by the Department of Environmental Quality Promotion and Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Thailand, the resort launched impactful initiatives such as The Last Straw and The Water Boy, which laid the foundation for its current sustainability successes. The Last Straw initiative was implemented in 2018 and saw the elimination of single-use plastic straws in all in-house restaurants and bars. As a result, the resort reduced straw usage by over 170,000 units and achieved an 80% decrease in overall straw consumption. The Water Boy Project initially introduced infused water stations and reusable cups in dining areas with the aim to decrease single-use plastic waste. This initiative expanded to include the Pullman Water Tumbler program where guests were provided with refillable water bottles for use at the resort and beyond. The H.E.R.B. Garden H.E.R.B. is the name of Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach's very own herb garden where a selection of organic herbs are grown in the heart of the resort. The herbs are cultivated with love and hand-picked every morning by the culinary team to be used in beverages and dishes across the resort's restaurants and bars. H.E.R.B. stands for four important elements of daily life - Healthy, Energy, Recovery and Benefit. Weekly Beach Cleaning Every Wednesday, the resort team organizes a Naithon Beach clean-up, ensuring the pristine shores remain a haven for guests and local wildlife. Guests and the local community are welcome to join this initiative and contribute to a cleaner, greener Phuket. These programs embody the resort's proactive approach to sustainability, creating a foundation for ongoing improvements and community engagement. Sustainability Goals For Now and Beyond Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach's sustainability objectives reflect its dedication to measurable improvements. • The resort aims to achieve a 5% reduction in energy consumption compared to the previous year. • Define water and food waste baselines through the Gaia reporting system. • Reduce food waste by 10%. • Utilize the Accor Net Zero Carbon Calculator to accurately measure and offset carbon emissions generated by meetings and events. This innovative tool allows organizers to plan sustainably by calculating their event's carbon footprint and selecting offset options to support global and local environmental initiatives. 'We're committed to creating meaningful experiences for our guests while protecting the environment and supporting our local community. These initiatives reflect our belief that sustainability is not just a trend but a necessity,' concluded Brett Wilson. About Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach Pullman Phuket Arcadia Naithon Beach, a Pullman flagship resort, perched on the headland of Naithon Beach overlooking the Andaman Sea on the west coast of Phuket. Within a 15-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, the resort offers guests a tranquil and relaxing getaway with sophisticated and contemporary design and direct access to Naithon Beach. The resort's 277 rooms and luxury pool villas offer stylish design and neutral hues to enhance the natural backdrop. Join the resort in its mission to make travel more sustainable. For more information, visit About ACCOR Accor is a world-leading hospitality group offering experiences across more than 110 countries with 5,700 properties, 10,000 food & beverage venues, wellness facilities and flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry's most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing more than 45 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore. Accor is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity, and inclusivity. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information, please visit or follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok. Press Contact Abdulla Ameer E: [email protected] T: +66 (0) 76 303 299 Bradley Cox Green Globe + +1 310-337-3000 Visit us on social media: Legal Disclaimer:
