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.

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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

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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.


Skydeck Restro Bar at Novotel Vijayawada Varun Elevates the Dining Experience with a Bold New Menu

Skydeck Restro Bar at Novotel Vijayawada Varun Elevates the Dining Experience with a Bold New Menu

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 2, 2025

Skydeck Restro Bar at Novotel Vijayawada Varun is redefining rooftop dining with the launch of its brand-new menu, designed to complement its dynamic cocktail experience. Known for its lively ambiance, breathtaking city views, and sophisticated vibe, Skydeck is taking its culinary game to the next level with an array of bold and flavorful dishes.

Whether you’re in the mood for handcrafted cocktails, laid-back sundowner sessions, or a vibrant late-night atmosphere, the refreshed menu has something for everyone. From globally inspired small plates to indulgent mains, each dish has been carefully crafted to enhance the restro bar’s signature offerings.

With a perfect mix of international flavors and local culinary traditions, the menu brings an exciting variety to the Vijayawada dining scene. Some of the standout dishes include:

  • Bunny Chow: A South African-inspired delight featuring rich, spiced curry served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread for a comforting yet flavorful experience.

  • Beer Battered Calamari: Tender calamari rings coated in a light, crispy beer batter, fried to perfection, and paired with a zesty dipping sauce.

  • Tawa Vanjaram: Fresh vanjaram fish marinated in a blend of spices and cooked on a traditional tawa, delivering a smoky and flavorful taste.

  • Magic Mushrooms: A vegetarian favorite with mushrooms sautéed in aromatic spices, offering a unique depth of flavor.

  • Paneer Velli Ulli Karam: Soft paneer cubes cooked in a fiery garlic-based sauce for a spicy and savory kick.

  • Lahori Murgh Tikka: Juicy chicken tikka marinated in rich Lahori spices and grilled to perfection, bringing out an irresistible smoky essence.

Every dish is designed to elevate the dining experience, blending international inspirations with locally loved flavors. Paired with Skydeck’s renowned cocktails and stunning rooftop ambiance, the menu ensures that every visit feels like a special occasion.

The newly curated menu is now available, inviting guests to indulge in these culinary delights while soaking in the panoramic cityscape.

About Skydeck Restro Bar, Novotel Vijayawada Varun Hotel: Skydeck Restro Bar, perched atop Novotel Vijayawada Varun Hotel, is a premium rooftop dining destination known for its fusion of global and local flavors. With an inviting atmosphere and breathtaking views, it’s the go-to spot for both casual dining and celebratory gatherings.

Event Details:

  • Venue: Novotel Vijayawada Varun, Skydeck

  • Timings: Lunch & Dinner


Hop On an Unforgettable Eco-Friendly Easter at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef

Hop On an Unforgettable Eco-Friendly Easter at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef

By Author

Published on April 1, 2025

 Sun Siyam Vilu Reef invites guests to join an eco-friendly Easter extravaganza filled with family-friendly activities, special offers, and unforgettable experiences. Running from April 16th to 20th, 2025 it's the ultimate destination for creating lasting memories with loved ones.

Get ready for an action-packed and eco-friendly Easter at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef! From Easter Egg Hunts to Bunny Basket Making and Easter Mini Olympics, we've packed the holidays with fun for the whole family. But this year, we're taking a greener approach to our festivities. Our eco-friendly theme focuses on reducing waste and using sustainable materials throughout the event.

For instance, when dyeing Easter eggs, we're opting for natural ingredients like spinach for green, beetroot for red, red cabbage for blue or purple, and turmeric for yellow. Additionally, instead of using plastic decorations, we're choosing reusable wooden or fabric eggs to minimize environmental impact.

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Our SuperLEDShow, featuring internationally acclaimed performers Dennis Kiss and Szulita Szekrényes, will dazzle you with mind-blowing light displays and acrobatics on April 19th and 20th—all part of our commitment to bringing awe-inspiring entertainment in an eco-conscious way.

To top off the celebration, enjoy a Pool Party and a special Easter Beach BBQ, with sustainability at the heart of every detail. Join us for a fun-filled Easter that celebrates not just family, but also our beautiful planet. Sun Siyam Vilu Reef offers a perfect balance of fun, relaxation, and sustainability, ensuring your Easter getaway is unforgettable.

Easter Offer: Celebrate Easter at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef with an exclusive offer including up to 40% off accommodation, free roundtrip seaplane transfers for two with a minimum 7-night stay, a Lucky Dolphin Cruise, and a gourmet welcome platter with champagne upon arrival. Enjoy additional perks like a room upgrade (subject to availability), free snorkeling equipment, kayaking, and a Veranda breakfast during your stay. Plus, kids under 12 stay and eat for free. Book now to elevate your Easter getaway with unforgettable experiences at this stunning eco-friendly resort. Offer valid for bookings made from 16 February to 20 April 2025, for stays until 23 December 2025.

To take advantage of this offer, visit https://www.sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-vilu-reef/offers/easter-offer/

 


Siyam World's Toon-Tastic Easter Bash - The Ultimate Easter Celebration In the Maldives

Siyam World's Toon-Tastic Easter Bash - The Ultimate Easter Celebration In the Maldives

By Author

Published on April 1, 2025

This Easter, Siyam World Maldives is turning up the fun and excitement to a whole new level with its Toon-tastic Easter Bash, running from April 11th to 28th, 2025. It’s not just your average holiday celebration—this is going to be the most epic, action-packed, and laughter-filled Easter event ever. Get ready for an unforgettable family experience with activities and experiences that will have everyone, from kids to grown-ups, grinning ear to ear!

4 x Football Camps with Legends!

Football fans, get ready! Legendary players Theo Walcott (April 7th-11th), Joleon Lescott (April 14th-18th), Christian Vieri & his brother Max Vieri (April 19th-21st), and Javier Saviola (April 24th-28th) will be hosting football camps for kids throughout the Easter Holidays. It’s not just drills—this is about having fun, making memories, and for parents, a bit of well-deserved downtime! Sign up your kids now. 

Magical Entertainment & Shows

Expect mind-blowing magic from the sensational UAE Based magician Silis Kopen, renowned for his captivating performances that blend traditional magic with modern flair. His acts are designed to transport audiences to a place beyond their imagination, leaving them in awe and wonder. He has collaborated with some of the world's top magicians and contributes to the magic community by operating Dubai's only online juggling school. Don’t miss the Close-Up Magic Show at the Egg Lighting Event on April 18th, followed by a dazzling Stage Magic Show on April 20th—and there’s more magic in store!

Italian Celebrity Chef Gloria Clama

Siyam World will also host Chef Gloria Clama during the Easter period, as part of the Sun Siyam Resorts' Chef Residency Program. Hailing from the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in Italy, is renowned for her unique culinary creations that fuse the essence of the forest with Mediterranean flavors. Known as the "Chef of the Forest," Gloria brings her passion for local, seasonal ingredients to life through dishes inspired by childhood memories of foraging in the woods. Her work celebrates the magic of nature, from wild herbs to earthy flavors and her dishes, blending the essence of the forest with the fresh Maldivian sea, will be a true gastronomic delight for all who are lucky enough to taste them.

Toon-tastic Easter Fun!

Get ready for our Toon-tastic Ninja Warrior Challenge and Toon-tastic Amazing Race—a mix of adventure, fun, and surprises. But the grand finale is the Toon-tastic Easter Bash Celebration, a spectacular show that will have everyone dancing, laughing, and celebrating together. Try your hand at the Golf Challenge, race around the track in Go-karting with the family, or experience the thrill of a Jet Car ride. If you’re feeling adventurous, dive in for a Swim with Sharks & Turtles or take a trip to a Private Deserted Island for the day.  For the fishing enthusiasts, join in on Big Game Fishing with the Family, or unwind with a Family Photography Package capturing the magic of this special time. We’re also hosting a Cinema by Moonlight and thrilling Parasailing with the Family—there’s no limit to the fun. 

Mark your calendars for the Kidz Carnival at Siyam World during the Easter holidays at Tempo Beach and enjoy a variety of fun games with exciting prizes and guaranteed good times for the little ones! And for the true adventurers, try the Tru Scuba Diving experience or spend a day at the Horse Ranch for a truly unique adventure. Want to relax? Enjoy a Family Fun Day at the Spa with a $50 spa credit and a 10% discount on Easter day!

Hop into an Egg-citing Easter adventure at Siyam World Maldives with an exclusive offer that includes up to 40% off accommodation with the Premium 24hrs WOW! All-Inclusive package. Enjoy free roundtrip seaplane transfers for one with a 4-night stay or for two with a 7-night stay, plus a special decorated family dinner at one of our specialty restaurants. Families will love that up to 2 children under 11 stay and eat for free! Book now for an unforgettable Easter getaway with fantastic savings and exciting perks.Terms & Conditions: Offer valid for bookings from 16 February – 20 April 2025, for stays until 22 December 2025.

To take advantage of this offer, visit https://www.sunsiyam.com/siyam-world/offers/easter-offer/

Siyam World’s Toon-tastic Easter Bash is packed with once-in-a-lifetime activities, unforgettable experiences, and plenty of surprises. Whether you’re looking to indulge in world-class dining, try something adventurous, or simply relax and enjoy time with loved ones, this Easter is bound to be the most memorable one yet!

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