Hotel and restaurant group Whitbread reveals green refurbishment drive

14th July 2010, 9:02am

Whitbread has announced that as part of this year's capital investment programme it will be spending over £7m in a major sustainability programme to boost the environmental performance of its hotels, restaurants and coffee shops.

The move forms an important part of Whitbread's 'Good Together' sustainability strategy and will help the business deliver against its targets of a 26% reduction in energy consumption and a 20% reduction in water use by 2020.

As part of the programme, 20,000 low-flow showerheads will be installed at Premier Inn hotels. This single initiative will save enough water to fill 88 Olympic swimming pools a year by 2012.  

Another key element of the programme will see £2.6m go towards low-energy LED light bulbs, replacing 75,000 energy inefficient light bulbs. This investment will save an estimated 6200 tonnes of carbon each year as well as reduce Whitbread's energy bill.  

Additional energy and water saving measures include investment in voltage optimisation, thermal building insulation, automated lighting systems, bathroom tap restrictors and dual flush toilets, renewable technology such as solar panels and micro combined heat and power and solar film.

Chris George, Whitbread's head of energy & environment, said: "This significant green investment is a major step forward for Whitbread as we continue to drive down carbon emissions and reduce water consumption as part of our 'Good Together' commitments. By leading the way in our sector, we can show what can be achieved when you are committed to taking action on the environment. 

"What's really exciting about our programme is its scale – we have the largest portfolio of hotels, restaurants and coffee shops in the UK.  That means we have a real opportunity to make a difference and there is considerable scope for us to be innovative and bold."  

Whitbread is also operating a sustainable new build programme and construction is currently underway on a second green hotel and first low-carbon restaurant.

Related Articles:

• 13 Jul 2010 - Whitbread's Ashley Hotel sold to Greene King
• 23 Jun 2010 - Whitbread reports strong start to financial year
• 17 Jun 2010 - Whitbread announces eco-friendly waste disposal roll out
• 12 Jan 2010 - Whitbread to launch first low-carbon restaurant

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