Aldar introduces Greener Voyage Programme to reward guests for committing to sustainable choices

Aldar Introduces Greener Voyage Programme to reward guests for committing sustainable choices

• ^{Initiative designed to encourage guests to be more eco-concious and reduce their impact on the environment during their stay.}
• ^{The Greener Voyage programme will commence at Yas Plaza Hotels and Nurai Island, starting in December 2023.}

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 22 December 2023: Aldar Properties PJSC (“Aldar”) is encouraging guests to commit to more sustainable choices with the introduction of the Greener Voyage Programme which invites guests to commit to a range of measurable, sustainable behaviours and in-turn rewards their efforts to reduce their environmental impact.

The Programme will be launched across all international brands found at the Yas Plaza Hotels cluster on Yas Island; Crowne Plaza Yas Island, Staybridge Suites Yas Island, Radisson Hotel Yas Island, Park Inn Yas Island, Rotana Hotel Yas Island, and Centro Hotel Yas Island, as well as Nurai Island, and extends a 12% discount on room rates.

Under the Programme, guests can commit to how they travel to the hotel and opt for reduced changes to room bed sheets and towels. Guests are encouraged to further their sustainable choices by turning off room lights and electrical appliances, using designated recycling bins, and minimising overall food waste. At the end of their stay, the programme will calculate the carbon emissions that each guest has saved against the measurable behaviours.

Ahead of arrival, guests are required to sign up for the Greener Voyage Programme through CarbonSifr, the UAE-founded climate-tech company that aims to embed environmental practices within the hospitality sector. To be eligible for the discount, bookings must be made directly with participating hotels for a minimum two-night stay.

Klaus Assmann, CEO of Aldar Hospitality commented: “We are proud to introduce a programme aimed at inspiring conscious efforts as all of us recognise the importance of sustainability. While we have taken steps to become greener, we understand that true environmental stewardship requires a more holistic approach. Our commitment to sustainability supports the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative and goes beyond the confines of our premises. We believe that by encouraging guests to reduce their environmental impact, we can collectively make a meaningful difference. Every action, big or small, contributes to the wellbeing of our planet."

Onur Elgun, co-founder and CEO of CarbonSifr said: "Our collaboration with Aldar Hospitality supports our Climate Action Roadmap, a forward-thinking approach to integrate eco-innovative practices within the hospitality sector with an aim to inspire broader ecological awareness and action across the industry and beyond. This partnership builds on our commitment to embed impactful climate action throughout the region."

Tourism is estimated to contribute to 11% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and the industry is predicted to double by 2050. Travellers are adopting sustainable micro-habits when on holiday. According to Booking.com’s 2023 Sustainable Travel Report, which surveyed more than 33,000 travellers across 35 countries and territories including the UAE - 67% switch off air conditioning when the room is not occupied, 60% reuse the same towel multiple times, 77% consciously turn off the lights and appliances while almost half (45%) recycle their waste when traveling.

In line with Aldar’s Net Zero Plan, energy efficiency, water conservation and waste management are key components to advance the business’ decarbonisation journey. The Aldar Hospitality portfolio has completed the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Hotel Sustainability Basics programme, a globally recognised initiative to measure and reduce energy and water consumption, minimise waste and carbon emissions as well as implement fundamental actions to protect the environment and communities.