Leading hotel group BWH Hotels continues to prioritize sustainable and responsible tourism options for travelers in 2024 and beyond. Following the launch of its "Because We Care" sustainability program last year, BWH Hotels has introduced new eco-conscious brand partnerships and encouraged individual properties to focus on localized sustainability efforts in their respective markets.
For example, BWH Hotels announced a partnership with Tesla this year, and a plan to install electric vehicle charging stations at properties throughout North America; installation will begin this year and there are plans to expand the effort internationally. Additionally, BWH Hotels has partnered with Green Key Global, the leading sustainability certification organization for the hotel and lodging industry in North America, to implement a standardized sustainability program across the United States and Canada.
The brand-wide focus on eco-conscious initiatives has led Best Western Hotels & Resorts, SureStay Hotels and WorldHotels properties worldwide to enhance their sustainability practices. These efforts also include coastline restoration projects and urban beekeeping, as properties strive to give back to their local environments and communities. Below are a few property examples.
The Lodge On Lake Detroit
This hotel is situated on the shore of Big Detroit Lake and has played a role in restoring and preserving the local shoreline. The property's efforts have culminated in the Rain Garden Lodge Project, which has planted over 4,000 indigenous perennials to protect the lake from run-off. The property provides eco-friendly offerings, including organic coffee, many organic and biodynamic wines and naturally derived bath and body products. Furthermore, a portion of the bath and body product manufacturer's profits support the honeybee and sustainable pollination research at the University of California, Davis. Every room in the hotel includes artwork created by local artists, LED lighting and recycling bins.
Nordic Hotel Forum
Located in Tallinn, Estonia, this is the first hotel in the city to have its own beehives, with over 360,000 bees calling the property home. The bees have become a vital part of the onsite restaurant operations, producing the honey served to guests during breakfast. The hotel is also a Green Key Certified property.
Best Western Plus City Hotel Gouda
Set in the Netherlands and in the historical city center of Gouda, this hotel next to the Gouwe River has more than 215 solar panels on its rooftop that generate up to 25% of its total energy usage. The hotel has also implemented special cover shields on its windows, which are designed to block out the sun while allowing natural daylight in, eliminating excessive air conditioning usage. Inside the hotel, 90% of its lighting fixtures utilize energy-efficient LED technology.
