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Sunday 15th November 2015
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The Considerate This month's topic: Climate Change
Highlights and Headlines
CONSIDERATE HOTELS Stories that touch us Learn how this member has been affected by and reacted to climate change
CONSIDERATE SOLUTIONS Con-Serve Our comprehensive data management system to increase resource efficiency and make cost savings
CONSIDERATE ORGANISATIONS Results that impress A not-for-profit organisation focusing on climate change
CONSIDERATE SUPPLIERS Companies that inspire us Read about climate-positive chocolate from Original Beans and GFL's zero emissions policy
STORY OF THE MONTH Actions that motivate us Learn more about the upcoming event COP21 in Paris this month
CONSIDERATE PERSONALITY People that move us Interview with Julie Poirot, Head of CSR at the Oetker Collection
CONSIDERATE SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY Updated each month, the full rundown of our accredited suppliers
Trends that drive us: Climate Change The first thing to say here really is that Climate Change is not actually a trend!! But an unavoidable fact, and a scientifically proven one at that too! That there are still people out there challenging this evidence, is a discussion not even worth getting involved in. It is a fact, which already I learned at school about, and that is now over 25 years ago. I remember going to our first climate discussion at the Old Marylebone Town Hall on the Euston Road in 1989. As a 17-year old it seemed inconceivable to me that this was a problem we as a human race would not confront or solve. After all we had managed to rebuild Europe after two world wars, the Berlin Wall had just fallen, of course we would manage to deal with this crisis…. Well 26 years later, with various high-ranking negotiators, such as for example Ivo de Boer, having despaired and resigned at global climate conference after global climate conference, it seems that there is FINALLY a glimmer of hope that we humans will indeed rise to this challenge.
With only 3 weeks to go to Cop21 in Paris, the UN’s 21st conference on this topic, an unprecedented number of climate change plans handed in from nearly 150 countries over the past seven months should make a “significant dent” in the growth of green house gas emissions - according to the FT. So why is this year’s conference going to be different to say Copenhagen in 2011 or Rio in 2013? Well, for one it seems the Chinese have joined the ranks of those countries willing to do their bit in the global race against the 2°C warming. But also President Obama as well as the Pope Francis having become outspoken climate advocates, calling for new policies to be introduced, seem to add to the general ‘trend’ of climate actions. One of the most likely outcomes of the Paris talks will be a much closer monitoring and possible taxation of CO2 emissions, not only of big factories but any businesses including hotels. It will therefore be key for all hospitality venuers to start monitoring their resource consumption more closely not only to operate more efficiently but also to reduce their Carbon Footprints. Please remember that our own data monitoring platform Con-Serve helps you as a hotel do exactly that - we have included further details below on exactly how it can improve your bottom line and environmental ranking. We will in this issues of our newsletter try and give you general overview of the COP21 discussions, as well as other important climate change related topics, be it with our hotels, our suppliers or other organisations we work with. As always we endeavor to remain at the forefront of happenings to keep you informed and advise you any fundamental changes. So let’s all roll our sleeves up together to indeed make 2015 equally as historic as 1945 by saying “No to Climate Change” as our forefathers said “No to more Wars”.
Xenia zu Hohenlohe, Marketing Director Considerate Hoteliers
CONSIDERATE HOTELS Stories that touch us
The Oetker Collection The Oetker Collection – Hotel du Cap Eden Roc, France: “The 3rd of October, two months-worth of rain fell on the Cote d'Azur in just a few hours on a Saturday night. It caused the River Brague to burst its banks near Antibes, which lies between the popular resort towns of Cannes and Nice. Entire roads were torn away by waves of muddy water, which destroyed peoples' homes, washed away cars and caused widespread travel disruption across the once-pristine region of the French Riviera. The Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc and the Château Saint Martin & Spa have had no damages contrary to other hotels in Cannes. The management of our hotel showed its solidarity with the people of Biot by giving the local residents : - Cleaning products - Food and water - Clothes Employees, which were affected by the bad weather received help from our hotels and their colleagues.” Julie Poirot - Head of CSR with the Oetker Collection tells us. This is just one example as to how climate change can affect a hotel and thankfully this group has already taken the first steps of moving to a more sustainable future by committing to the UN’s Global Compact programme: The Oetker Collection’s statement on CSR, published earlier this year, includes the following paragraph: “We are aware of the fact that our guests are not only consumers, but also citizens who are concerned about the well-being of the planet. Certain of them are deeply committed to defending environmental and social causes. We believe that being part of the Oetker Collections should be synonymous with a respect for people and nature. Our commitment in favour of Social Responsibility, which contributes to Sustainable Development extends beyond a simple stance: Our membership of the UN’s Global Compact is a major element of our commitment. We have thus joined the community of organisations, which
support this exemplary initiative and we have committed in particular to bring our strategy, governance and decision-making processes into line with the principles of the Global Compact”. The UN’s Global Compact is just one of a few initiatives helping companies to commit to corporate strategies, which include people and nature. There are many other certifications and programmes which might work better for other hotel groups, to see the full list of all those available, please log into our Knowledge Hub.
CONSIDERATE SOLUTIONS Con-Serve
Con-Serve is a comprehensive data management system developed by Considerate Hoteliers, allowing hotels to increase their resource efficiency and make cost savings. Alongside advisory services, this system is enabled by a dynamic technology platform, which has been tailored to capture data that is material to the hospitality industry, including electricity, heat, water, waste, travel and laundry. Through Con-Serve's unique data management system you can: Make cost and environmental savings Identify inefficiencies in resource use Track and validate savings initiatives Benchmark performance Reduce administrative time and costs from centralised and efficient data management Increase traceability and transparency of sustainability data Get support for complying with sustainability reporting requirements and standards
Our vision is to set businesses on a clear pathway of environmental sustainability by promoting Con-Serve's 4 Ms: Mearsure - Monitor - Mine - Manage.
CONSIDERATE ORGANISATIONS Results that impress
State of Play: Climate Change and the Hospitality Sector CDP is an international, not-for-profit organisation working in the space of climate change. Each year, CDP sends out standardised questionnaires encouraging companies to account for and be transparent about climate change related risk. This request for information goes out to the world’s largest companies on behalf of 822 institutional investor signatories with a combined US$95 trillion in assets. CDP then provides this information to its investor signatories, as well as distributing it throughout the global market place to increase transparency around climate-related investment risk and commercial opportunity, and drive investments towards a low carbon economy. Last week, on November 4th, CDP released its 2015 climate change ratings ahead of COP21. Companies are scored on two aspects:
1. Disclosure: examines the completeness of a company’s CDP response (scored as a number between 1-100); and 2. Performance: assesses actions which are considered to advance climate change mitigation, adaptation and transparency (scored as a band between A-E) So who were some of the CDP leaders in the hospitality sector in 2015? Melia Hotels International SA (99 A) NH Hotel Group (99 A) Wyndham Worldwide Corporation (98 A) TUI Group (100 A-) Caesars Entertainment (100 A-) Las Vegas Sands Corporation (99 A) The concept is simple - companies across all sectors must measure and manage their emissions. But how does it all work in practice for the hotel industry? The hotel sector found itself helping corporate clients understand their carbon impact of time spent in hotels, for meetings, events and associated hotel stays, for example. More specifically, during the Request for Proposal (RFP) for example, when hotels ‘bid’ for corporate client events or meetings, clients were being asked to disclose the carbon footprint for those events. However, the challenge for the industry and the corporate client was that there was very little consistency in the way that hotels report their emissions. Now with the added requirement to report on their own emissions through initiatives like CDP, there was an ever-increasing need to develop a standard for hotels to measure their carbon footprint. The Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative (HCMI), was created to remedy this exact situation. While the HCMI standard guides hotels in measuring all emissions sources that are material to their sector (including energy, water, waste, travel, transportation and laundry), these calculations can often be quite complex, and therefore costly. Alongside other benefits, Con-Serve (a data management system developed by Considerate Hoteliers) has the ability to automatically calculate the carbon footprint of a hotel inline with the HCMI methodology based on resource consumption data, and is therefore a practical tool for hotels to measure their emissions according to the accepted industry standard. For more information on Con-Serve, please see section above or visit our webpage. As well, we would be happy to hear from you to see how we could support your climate change efforts. Our team has expertise in corporate carbon reporting and experience supporting companies with their CDP disclosure. Please contact info@con-serve.com for more information.
CONSIDERATE SUPPLIERS
Companies that inspire us
Original Beans Climate-Positive Chocolate Sustainability forerunners Original Beans cover all bases with their ethical approach to producing some of the finest and most luxurious award-winning chocolate in the world sourced from ecological hotspots in South America, Indonesia and from the Virunga National Park, DR Congo, Africa. Founded on the principal ‘What we consume we must replenish’ – for every bar sold, one tree is planted, in order to preserve and conserve precious environments. But Original Beans’ meticulous commitment to sustainability and conservation does not stop there. On the contrary: it exists in every element of their supply cycle. In a 2014 study of the Cru Virunga 70% cacao bar and its production chain in terms of climate costs and benefits, conducted by two independent teams – Footprint4Foods and CarbonRoots, Original Beans was found to be measurably climate-positive, contributing positively with a factor 3 to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This is because every tree planted into an existing cacao forest, absorbs 274g more CO2 than the emissions created by the production of one bar. Put simply, this means that eating one Original Beans chocolate bar offsets the negative climate effect of three unsustainable chocolate bars.
The environmental achievements of Original Beans have also been recognised by the People, Environment & Achievement Awards, which awarded the Supply Chain prize for reforestation projects and green logistics, resulting in a measurably climate positive product. By striving for a top quality product that is created in a healthy, sustainable way, Original Beans has been able to meet the demand of a growing number of conscious consumers. Philipp Kauffman, Founder & CEO, reveals part of the success of his chocolate: ‘Once you’ve tasted really good chocolate, it’s difficult to go back to eating anything else. Eat Less, But Better is my motto.’ Learn more about Original Beans' conservation efforts under www.originalbeans.com.
GFL - Control CO2 Emissions GFL, a manufacturer of guest amenity products, has committed to keep their emissions as low as possible since laying the foundations of their factory in Milan. It features innovative and state-of-the-art design and engineering in the production area of the factory; heat can be channelled to the offices, which was generated during the production process. This also enables to cool down the offices during the summer months when temperatures rise up to 35°C. As a result, energy consumption remains relatively low throughout the year, which helps to keep emissions to a minimum level. Parts of GFL's energy use comes from renewable sources. Aiming at further reducing the carbon footprint, GFL produces all their bottles on site. One of the biggest advantages of this is that GFL does not need to rely on outside delivery sources. Likewise, by having researched the carton sizes for all goods leaving the factory, GFL has not only reduced the amount of recycable card used, but also has decreased the shipping volumes. This results in a reduced carbon footprint as well as reduced transport cost. This shows that caring after the planet does not necessarily have to incurr additional expenses. Aveda - Connecting Beauty, the Environment & Well-being
Aveda is a brand built on environmental responsibility and not only takes care for their guests, but also for the wider environment. The mission at Aveda is to care for the world we live in, from the products we make to the ways in which we give back to society. At Aveda, we strive to set an example for environmental leadership and responsibility – not just in the world of beauty, but around the world. Aveda products are exclusively available to first-class and luxury properties that meet brand’s requirements. The range includes naturally derived bath and beauty care, which appeal to the eco-conscious traveler who wants exceptional product performance.
STORY OF THE MONTH Organisations that motivate us and those fighting climate change
United Nations is organising the UN Climate Change Conference, COP21 November 30 December 11 2015 in Paris, France. The international climate conference will be held at the Le Bourget site. This will be the 21st yearly session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 21) to the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the 11th session of the Meeting of the Parties (CMP 11) to the 1997 Kyoto Protocol.
According to the organising committee, the objective of the 2015 conference is to achieve, for the first time in over 20 years of UN negotiations, a binding and universal agreement on climate, from all the nations of the world. Leadership of the negotiations is yet to be determined. Pope Francis published an encyclical called Laudato si' intended, in part, to influence the conference. The encyclical calls for action against human-caused climate change. The overarching goal of the Convention is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to limit the global temperature increase to 2°C above pre-industrial levels. To achieve this, the future agreement must focus equally on mitigation - that is, efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in order to limit global warming to below 2°C - and societies’ adaptation to existing climate changes. These efforts must take into account the needs and capacities of each country. The agreement will enter into force in 2020 and will need to be sustainable to enable long-term change. The Adaptation Gap Report by the United Nations Environment Programme is an international study, with contributions from French climatologists. It shows that the contribution of 2°C to climate disruption caused by human activity is increasing, which will lead to a 50% reduction, by 2030, in uncertainty about climate sensitivity to this disruption. In close connection with the agreement that will be negotiated within the UNFCCC, the Agenda: presents solutions that exist now and that can be expanded, gives credibility to the emissions reduction and adaptation targets presented by the countries in Paris, shows how these targets are underpinned by action plans and investment strategies clearly identified by the various economic actors. The Agenda of Solutions should thus be a means to support the ambition of all countries, starting in 2015 and into the long term, by offering them solutions for a low-carbon development strategy, the Agenda also has a political scope: to send a strong signal that a broad coalition of state and non-state actors is willing to work in the same direction, with a common aim. And that climate change mitigation represents an economic opportunity in all countries, regardless of their level of development. What are the features of the initiatives in the Agenda of Solutions? They should: take a multi-stakeholder approach and involve various partners from all countries around a shared vision and targets, seek profound change, in accordance with the issues facing their sector or area of action, and based on a scientific approach to the greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets, seek and foster co-benefits of climate action, in terms of poverty reduction and
sustainable development targets, build a tangible, credible action plan, along with clear targets in figures to be reached by 2020, 2030 and 2050, establish a governance framework that can sustain the initiative into the long term, demonstrate transparency and report on their achievements and progress. EXAMPLE The mayors of more than 2,000 cities around the world have entered into a compact to curb greenhouse gas emissions by 454 megatons by 2020.
CONSIDERATE PERSONALITY People that move us Julie Poirot - The Oetker Collection Julie Poirot is the Oetker Collection's CSR coordinator based out of the Hotel du Cap Eden Roc, where she is also of the regional CSR projects for the Chateau Saint Martin and L'Apogee in Courchevel. She studied Sustainable Development and Environmental Communication at the University of Nice, France. Thanks Julie's active engagement the Oetker Collection has established its first CSR strategy, policy and is now committed to the Global Compact. My life motto Carpe Diem An unforgettable place I travelled to in the last year Bali, where I fell in love with the local dances and music. My favourite hotel Palais Namaskar, Marrakech What does ''Climate Change” mean to you The biggest challenge of our life time, for every individual as well as for every business, including hotels obviously. The oldest piece of clothing in my wardrobe Jogging pants from where I was 16 years old.
The last meal that truly impressed me A fresh fish with spices prepared in a little food stall in Bali - so simple and so delicious. People that inspire me Mahatma Gandhhi and his saying: 'Be the change that you wish to see in the world'. What does responsible tourism/business management mean to you That it should become part of an every day's normal business to plan its future. My favourite website Global Compact I travel to work by.. Bicycle or running Seasonal & local favourite produce My favourite product are strawberries. My favourite ‘sustainable’ company Exhibit - a little French printer company. My biggest worry about the future The loss of biodiversity. My biggest hope for the future Innovation
Last chance to apply for the Tourism for Tomorrow Awards 2016 Are you an inspiring, responsible business deserving recognition for your work in tourism? Then WTTC wants to hear from YOU! There's still time left to submit your entry for the Tourism for Tomorrow Awards 2016. All applications must be received by no later than 16 November 2015. Applicants can enter in one of the five award categories: Community; Destination; Environment; Innovation; and People. Get inspired from previous winners and apply here!
CONSIDERATE SUPPLIERS DIRECTORY Updated monthly The Considerate Suppliers Directory is a list of approved suppliers assessed by Considerate Hoteliers to ensure that they: follow a similar ethos to ours; have ethical policies in place; and conduct their business responsibly. Most suppliers offer preferential rates to our members, but you will need to log in to the members area of our website to view these offers. For further information please visit the more detailed directory of our Considerate Suppliers on our website: Please click here.
Supplier's Discounts The Green Stationery Company The new Dag eco menus catalogue is out now for a free copy email sales@greenstat.co.uk. Use the code CH707 at checkout to get an extra 20% discount to all orders over £75 on all your menu paper orders on www.greenstat.co.uk.
Considerate Suppliers Aslotel Toiletries and equipment for hotel bedrooms and bathrooms Contact: murray.roberts @aslotel.co.uk
Berendsen Textile services supplier Contact: kevin.davies@berendsen.co.uk Cleaner Products Housekeeping & Consumables Contact: pete@cleanerproducts.co.uk Crukafe Ltd Beverage Contact: zaisha@crukafe.com Delphis Eco Eco-friendly cleaning products Contact: sales@delphiseco.com GFL S.A. Bathroom cosmetics and guest amenity products Contact: info@gfl.eu Glamocell Led lighting Contact: rtemple@glamocell-uk.com Harrison Spinks Jospitality Division Hand-made beds Contact: struswell@harrisonspinks.co.uk Hypnos Beds Bed Manufacturer Contact: chris.ward@hypnosbeds.com Lalani & Co. Boutique tea curators Contact: info@lalaniandco.com Original Beans High quality Chocolate Contact: daniel@originalbeans.com Plan Bee Ltd Fully managed beehive service Contact: warren@planbeeltd.com The Green Stationery Company Office equipment Contact: jayoffice@greenstat.co.uk
The Fine Cotton Company Housekeeping&Consumables Contact: trevor@thefinecottoncompany.com TiFry Company Ltd Kitchen equipment Contact: office@tifry.com White Knight Laundry Services Laundry and linen hire Contact: sales@white-knight.co.uk Xeros Cleaning Technologies Contact: dan.barrett@xeroscleaning.com
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