Abu Dhabi Hotel Sets Green Example

At a time when the environment and global warming are pressing issues for the entire world, going green is a priority for many industries. Not only does going green do one’s part in slowing greenhouse gases and preserving resources, it provides a favorable image for the industry due to their commitment to social responsibility. The Cristal Hotel in Abu Dhabi, UAE has been making remarkable investments into recycling programs as part of a ‘Clean Up UAE’ campaign. It now recycles six products, namely paper, plastics, aluminum cans, glass, Tetra Pak packaging, cartridges and toners. The hotel’s effort in keeping environmentally friendly has not gone unnoticed in the Middle East as the Cristal Hotel Abu Dhabi was short-listed for the Arabian Corporate Social Responsibility Awards 2010 by Emirates Environmental Group. Specific actions the management has taken is switching to compact fluorescent lamps in all of its rooms, turning off heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment when not required, adjusting chilled water temperature for air conditioning according to atmospheric temperature, and regulating domestic water temperature to reduce compressor load. The need for this was specifically addressed my manager Immanuel Williams who said, “The hotel industry is often considered as one of the most waste-producing businesses in the world. We aim to change that perception here in Abu Dhabi by adopting sustainable strategies to complement our local growth.” This effort no doubt will prompt hotels in the Middle East to adopt the same policies and give the Cristal Hotel the reputation of luxurious accommodations that meet the highest environmental standards.