Why LEED v4.1 Certification Matters for Indian Hotels: Lessons from Radisson Blu Bengaluru

Why LEED v4.1 Certification Matters for Indian Hotels: Lessons from Radisson Blu Bengaluru

By Nishang Narayan

Published on November 6, 2024

As sustainability becomes increasingly important, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification has emerged as the global standard for green building. LEED v4.1, an updated version, introduces more stringent benchmarks for energy efficiency, water management, waste reduction, and overall environmental performance. This certification is more than just a label—it represents a hotel’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and creating a healthier, more resource-efficient space for both guests and staff.

What is LEED v4.1 and Why Does It Matter?

LEED v4.1 certification is awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and focuses on the sustainability of building operations and maintenance, particularly for existing buildings. Key features of LEED v4.1 include:

  1. Energy and Atmosphere: LEED v4.1 prioritizes energy performance, requiring buildings to optimize their energy use through renewable energy sources, energy-efficient lighting, and reduced fossil fuel dependency.

  2. Water Efficiency: Water-saving technologies and practices are crucial, including low-flow fixtures and effective water recycling methods. This criterion aims to protect water resources while lowering utility costs.

  3. Materials and Resources: Hotels must adopt a “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” approach, ensuring that building materials are sustainable, reusable, and sourced responsibly.

  4. Indoor Environmental Quality: To provide a healthy environment, LEED v4.1 emphasizes indoor air quality, natural lighting, and minimal pollutant emissions, creating a comfortable space for guests and employees.

  5. Innovation in Design: Properties are encouraged to incorporate unique, innovative approaches to sustainability that go beyond standard practices, from using biogas to integrating green roofs.

image

Why LEED v4.1 Certification is Essential for Hospitality

For hotels, obtaining LEED v4.1 certification is a forward-thinking investment. It boosts a hotel’s appeal among eco-conscious travelers, aligns with global environmental standards, and reduces operational costs over time. In India, where the hospitality sector is rapidly expanding, integrating LEED standards can significantly reduce the industry’s environmental impact, create jobs in green energy sectors, and promote a culture of sustainability across the nation.

Radisson Blu Bengaluru: Setting an Example

image

Radisson Blu Bengaluru, Outer Ring Road, stands out as the first hotel in India to achieve the LEED v4.1 Platinum certification for Operations and Maintenance of an Existing Building. Their achievements include:

  • Renewable Energy Integration: They have reduced reliance on fossil fuels by incorporating electric vehicles and renewable energy sources like solar power.
  • Biogas Plant: Their on-site biogas plant processes up to 500 kg of food waste daily, which produces enough gas to prepare meals for 300 staff members.
  • Resource Management: A strong “Reduce-Reuse-Repair & Recycle” program ensures responsible use of materials and waste reduction, contributing to cost savings and environmental health.

Radisson Blu Bengaluru’s commitment to sustainability demonstrates the significant operational benefits and community impact a hotel can achieve by aligning with LEED standards.

Moving Forward: Steps for Hotels to Embrace Sustainability

For other hotels in India, the LEED v4.1 framework provides actionable steps toward sustainability:

  1. Incorporate Renewable Energy: Solar panels, wind turbines, and biogas plants can help hotels reduce reliance on nonrenewable resources.
  2. Implement Efficient Water Management: Hotels can adopt rainwater harvesting and water recycling systems to conserve water.
  3. Adopt Waste Management Systems: From recycling programs to composting, efficient waste management aligns with LEED goals and minimizes landfill waste.
  4. Pursue LEED Certification: Following LEED standards can improve a hotel’s sustainability profile, reduce costs, and increase appeal to eco-conscious travelers.

Congratulating Radisson Blu Bengaluru on Their Achievement

Congratulations to Radisson Blu Bengaluru, Outer Ring Road, for their leadership in sustainable hospitality and for setting a new standard in India. Their journey toward LEED v4.1 Platinum certification exemplifies what’s possible when hotels embrace sustainability, and their efforts pave the way for a greener hospitality industry in India.


Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar Celebrates 3rd Anniversary with Grand Reopening of Signature Sundowners Event at Quarter Dec

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar Celebrates 3rd Anniversary with Grand Reopening of Signature Sundowners Event at Quarter Dec

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on November 13, 2024

Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar recently celebrated its third anniversary with a grand reopening of its signature Sundowners event at the scenic Quarter Deck. This special relaunch attracted popular food bloggers and influencers from Pune, showcasing a unique blend of luxury and relaxation that has made the Sundowners experience a favorite among guests. Known for its open-air setting and breathtaking sunset views, Quarter Deck continues to be a top choice for dining and leisure in Mahabaleshwar.

image

The anniversary celebration offered a luxurious staycation featuring curated experiences that began with a refined high tea. As evening approached, the Sundowners event took center stage, set against panoramic mountain views and energized by vibrant music and custom cocktails. Guests enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and socializing.

One of the event's highlights was a special collaboration with Pernod Ricard. Anushka Pandkar, Wine Ambassador at Pernod Ricard Winemakers, led a bar takeover, treating guests to an exclusive tasting of wines from the Jacob’s Creek collection. The experience was further enriched by Pandkar’s introduction of innovative wine cocktails, paired with a carefully curated selection of cheese platters and canapés. A lively DJ added to the ambiance, while the hotel’s mixologists crafted signature cocktails and BBQ grills, giving guests an unforgettable evening.

image

Reflecting on the milestone, Rahul Janve, General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar, expressed the hotel’s excitement. "We are delighted to celebrate our 3rd anniversary with the relaunch of Sundowners, a defining experience at Quarter Deck that has become an essential part of Courtyard by Marriott Mahabaleshwar. We are excited to continue setting new standards in hospitality and look forward to creating many more unforgettable moments for our guests and the community.”

Set against the serene backdrop of mountains, Quarter Deck has established itself as a premier dining venue, renowned for its relaxed luxury and attentive service. Its Sundowners event has become a signature experience, blending stylish ambiance with an impressive range of culinary and cocktail offerings.

image

For more details about Quarter Deck and the Sundowners experience, visit courtyardmahabaleshwar.com.


HR Summit on Hospitality Education and Careers to Be Inaugurated by Ms. V. Vidyavathi, IAS

HR Summit on Hospitality Education and Careers to Be Inaugurated by Ms. V. Vidyavathi, IAS

By Nishang Narayan

Published on November 12, 2024

The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), in partnership with the National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology (NCHMCT) and the Hotel & Restaurant Association of Northern India (HRANI), is set to host the HR Summit on Education and Career in Hospitality on November 14, 2024, at Hotel Le Meridien, New Delhi.

The event, starting at 10:00 AM, will be inaugurated by Ms. V. Vidyavathi, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and Mr. Gyan Bhushan, IES, CEO of NCHMCT. It will bring together industry leaders, educators, and government representatives to address critical challenges in the hospitality sector, including a shortage of skilled professionals, low enrolment in hospitality courses, and high attrition rates.

A Platform for Transformative Dialogue

The summit aims to bridge the growing skills gap, improve the quality of hospitality education, and make careers in the industry more attractive and sustainable. Mr. Pradeep Shetty, Vice President of FHRAI and Convenor of the Summit, emphasized:

"The hospitality industry in India is at a critical juncture. While the growth potential is immense, we face significant challenges due to a lack of skilled professionals. This summit serves as a platform for collaboration between industry, academia, and government to find sustainable solutions to these issues.”

Key Sessions to Shape the Future

The HR Summit will feature three dynamic sessions:

  1. Career Opportunities in Hospitality: Trends, Challenges, and Strategies – Focusing on emerging roles, skill development, and career pathways.
  2. Addressing Low Enrolment and High Attrition in the Hospitality Industry – Exploring reasons behind low enrolments, industry perceptions, and strategies to tackle workforce turnover.
  3. Managing Human Resources in the Hospitality Industry – Highlighting best practices for workforce development and retention.

image

Strengthening the Talent Pipeline

According to Mr. Shetty, collaboration between stakeholders is vital for the hospitality sector’s growth:

"The industry is evolving rapidly, and addressing the challenges of education and workforce development is essential. This summit will enable actionable discussions to ensure the sector has a steady stream of skilled professionals to drive its future."

Why Attend?

The HR Summit provides an opportunity for industry professionals, educators, and policymakers to engage in insightful discussions, share innovative ideas, and contribute to strengthening the sector’s talent pipeline.

About FHRAI

Established in 1955, the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) is the apex body of India’s hospitality industry. It is the third-largest hospitality association in the world, actively working to bridge the gap between industry stakeholders and supporting India’s tourism and hospitality sectors' growth.

For anyone invested in the future of India’s hospitality industry, this summit promises to be a must-attend event for fostering dialogue and driving transformative change.


IHCL Partners with The Claridges, New Delhi for Management Deal

IHCL Partners with The Claridges, New Delhi for Management Deal

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on November 11, 2024

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s leading hospitality brand, announced a strategic partnership to manage The Claridges, New Delhi, starting in April 2025. The management contract represents a significant move by IHCL to expand its presence in key urban markets through alliances with iconic properties, with The Claridges as its latest addition.

IHCL’s Managing Director and CEO, Puneet Chhatwal, shared the company’s enthusiasm about the agreement, stating, “The Claridges, a distinguished landmark in Lutyens’ Delhi, provides a unique opportunity to expand our footprint at the nation’s most prestigious address, while also paving the way for potential expansion of our brandscape by growing The Claridges brand.” The 119-room property, which blends heritage with contemporary style, has been a prominent part of Delhi’s hospitality landscape since its establishment in 1955.

The Claridges is known not only for its luxurious accommodations but also for its diverse culinary offerings. Guests have a variety of dining options, from the Chinese cuisine at Jade to Mediterranean dishes at Sevilla, Punjabi specialties at Dhaba, and the globally-inspired menu at Pickwick. Additionally, The Elephant Bar and Aura offer artisanal cocktails in unique settings, adding to the hotel’s reputation as a premier destination for both luxury stays and culinary experiences.

Suresh Nanda of Claridges Hotels Pvt. Ltd. expressed optimism about the partnership with IHCL, stating, “We are honored to extend our partnership with IHCL, globally renowned and celebrated for its world-class hospitality to jointly grow The Claridges brand. Under IHCL’s management, we believe that The Claridges will build on its prestigious legacy.”

IHCL’s collaboration with The Claridges represents a key step in expanding its portfolio of upscale and boutique properties. This partnership comes on the heels of IHCL’s recent acquisitions, such as a 55% stake in Rajscape Hotels, operator of Tree of Life Resorts, reinforcing its growth in the luxury and boutique segment.

IHCL, the hospitality arm of the Tata Group, continues to be a leader in India’s hotel industry, with a diverse portfolio of brands that includes Taj, Vivanta, SeleQtions, and Ginger, each catering to a range of traveler needs and experiences. Known for its heritage and commitment to Indian hospitality, IHCL’s influence extends across 350 properties in over 130 locations globally.

The Claridges partnership aligns with IHCL’s expansion goals, particularly within metropolitan areas, and reflects the company’s dedication to associating with iconic brands in India. With this alliance, IHCL and The Claridges are set to elevate the luxury experience in New Delhi, offering guests a unique combination of rich history and modern luxury.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.