Our Journey to a Greener Future
InterContinental London - The O2
Introduction
Climate change and resource scarcity are among society’s most significant challenges. The Arora Group recognises that as a diversified property business with hotels, property and construction functions, they are fully committed to minimising our environmental impact and embedding sustainability at the heart of everything we do.
Similarly, IHG Hotel and Resorts, through its Journey to Tomorrow framework, aim to create a more sustainable, resilient and inclusive future for our people, our communities and our planet. At InterContinental London - The O2, our approach aligns with the Arora Group’s operational sustainability programmes and with IHG’s global responsible business plan, combining innovation, accountability and care in every aspect of our operations.
Together, we are building a business that thrives responsibly and where sustainability drives efficiency, engagement, and long-term value.
People
Our team are at the centre of our sustainability journey. We are committed to cultivating a workplace where everyone can thrive which promotes inclusivity, wellbeing and continuous learning.
Health, Wellbeing, Comfort and Productivity
• Wellbeing: We regularly pursue wellness and team building activities designed to reduce stress and promote mental health.
• Active Lifestyles: We encourage employees to walk, cycle, or use stairs where possible, promoting health and social connection. A cycle to work scheme is an incentive offered to our team.
• Healthy Choices: Across our hotel, we provide nutritious food options, including nourish bowls, water stations, and educational material highlighting the benefits of hydration and balanced nutrition.
• Hygiene and Safety: Signage throughout our hotel promotes good hygiene, and our Engineers conduct regular water testing to ensure the highest standards of health and safety.
Employee Engagement and Education
• Sustainability training and awareness campaigns help all colleagues understand their role in achieving environmental goals.
• Our Sustainability Team actively drives our goals and objectives by developing and implementing initiatives and creating general awareness amongst our team on our corporate social responsibility.
Our community and Corporate Social Responsibility
We believe that meaningful community engagement is essential to sustainable success and are focused on creating positive social and economic impact in our community
Local Partnerships and Procurement
• We prioritise local suppliers and services, supporting regional economies and reducing transport emissions.
• Our procurement process emphasises sustainability credentials, favouring suppliers with recycled, certified and non-toxic products.
Charity Support and Volunteering
• We encourage all employees to take part in community volunteering, from local partnerships to environmental clean-ups and tree planting.
• Our venues have donated space for charitable events, collectively helping raise over £4.5 million for good causes.
Energy and Carbon
Energy efficiency and carbon reduction are at the core of both the Arora Group Environmental Strategy and IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow goals.
Operational Excellence
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are scheduled to align with occupancy and business needs.
• LED lighting and motion sensors (PIR systems) are installed throughout our hotel to reduce energy consumption.
• Inverter-driven air conditioning units further improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon output.
Smart Technology and Monitoring
• Through IHG Green Engage, our hotel tracks energy and carbon performance in real time.
• For 2025, our hotel has saved 53tonnes of CO2.
Renewable and Low-Carbon Solutions
• 100% of our energy is sources from renewable sources.
• Installation of electric vehicle charging stations, including Tesla Superchargers, supports low-emission travel.
Water
Water conservation is central to our environmental management system and directly supports IHG’s Journey to Tomorrow 'Water' pillar.
• Guestroom showerheads feature flow restrictors between 6.7 and 9.5 liters per minute, and toilets are fitted with reduced flush systems.
• The Maintenance team conducts annual water quality testing to ensure safety and efficiency.
• Guests are encouraged to reuse towels and linen to reduce laundering.
Waste
Arora Group and IHG share a commitment to a circular economic approach, reducing waste generation, promoting reuse, and maximising recycling.
Waste Management and Recycling
• Our hotel dedicated waste separation systems for recyclables, food waste, and electronic equipment.
• Clear labelling on bins helps staff and guests separate waste correctly.
Reducing Single-Use Plastics
• Transitioning away from single-use plastics is in favour of reusable and recyclable alternatives such as eco-friendly packaging and glassware.
• Cleaning and laundry products use refillable bulk containers. We have also implemented a bulk amenity programme in our guest rooms.
Food Waste Reduction
• Through an approved recycling partner, 100% of food waste is recycled, bio digested and turned into gas and fertiliser.
• Leftover, untouched food from events is redistributed safely through our staff canteen.
Responsible Procurement
In line with IHG’s Responsible Procurement guidelines, Arora Group ensures that sustainability is embedded throughout our supply chain.
• Suppliers are required to demonstrate ethical and sustainable management systems.
• Preference is given to products with recycled content, certified origins, and low-toxicity materials.
Digital Transformation and Innovation
Digital solutions play a critical role in reducing environmental footprint and enhancing guest experience.
• Marketing, reservation, and guest information materials are now 50% digital, with a goal of becoming fully digital by 2026
• Paper use has been reduced through digital brochures, and QR code-based room guides, magazines, newsletters, newspapers and guest packages.
• The DripDrop umbrella hire initiative offers umbrellas made from recycled materials, supporting tree-planting programmes. This initiative has directly contributed to planting of 779 trees by the Rain Forest project.
Our Commitment
We believe that small actions can make a big difference. Together we are committed to the Journey to Tomorrow, a long-term vision for a more sustainable hospitality industry.
Our efforts focus on:
• Empowering our people
• Supporting communities
• Protecting the planet
• Driving responsible growth
By embedding sustainability into every decision we make, we ensure that our business not only thrives today but contributes positively to the world of tomorrow.