Swire Hotels Steps up Sustainability Measures Around the Globe

　　Swire Hotels announce recent measures dedicated to developing sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels at EAST Hong Kong, Beijing and Miami. Swire Hotels is committed to making a positive impact on the environment through implementing new and innovative programs to strengthen the priority given to the sustainable operation of its hotels.

　　These measures form part of the new sustainable development strategy launched by Swire Properties, Swire Hotels’ parent company. Swire Properties developed this new strategy with vision of becoming the leading sustainable development performer in its industry globally by 2030. Under this new strategy, Swire Properties identifies and manages the full spectrum of its environmental, social and economic impacts, integrating sustainable development into every facet of its business. One of the key aspects of the strategy is the development of environmentally sound buildings that are built based on an integrated design approach, which incorporates sustainable measures throughout the building’s life cycle, from planning and design to operation and maintenance.

　　East Hong Kong

　　Urban Garden—Inspired by the demand for fresh, sustainable ingredients that promote a healthier lifestyle, Executive Chef David Parkin initiated the EAST Hong Kong Urban Garden project. The dedicated garden, which runs the length of the outdoor pool, houses pesticide and chemical free herbs, including basil, chili, lemon, mint, parsley and coriander as well as okra, green beans and peppers. Supporting ecological living, EAST Hong Kong uses these crops to make delicious dishes at Feast and delectable cocktails at Sugar.

　　GOMIXER—A state-of-the-art organic waste disposal system designed to proactively reduce food waste. A safe biological process, the GOMIXER uses natural enzymes to breakdown leftover food into a nutrient rich water that is virtually odor free and can be disposed of through existing sewage treatment facilities.

　　East Beijing

　　Organic Yunnan Coffee—In a continued commitment to support the world’s ecosystems by reducing harmful chemicals and practices, EAST Beijing serves the Jane Goodall Low-Carbon Organic Yunnan coffee blend. A portion of proceeds from every cup sold is donated toward the Jane Goodall Institute in China and Roots and Shoots, which promotes environmental protection and sustainability.

　　Paperless Approach—EAST Beijing is focused on reducing paper waste and keeping up to date with new green technology systems. By having paperless check-in and check-out, to supplying rooms with iPods loaded with information about the hotel and its surrounding areas, EAST Beijing eases paper usage and helps to protect the environment.

　　East Miami

　　Site Development—To increase energy efficiency, EAST Miami incorporates the Climate Ribbon at its outdoor pool and deck area. An innovative environmental management system designed by Hugh Dutton, the Climate Ribbon is not only an architectural masterpiece but works to capture trade winds from the ocean, bringing a natural breeze into the property and provides shade to the shops and terraces directly exposed to strong sunlight.

　　Water Efficiency—To reduce water use and save on energy, EAST Miami has installed a smart pump that regulates water pressure throughout the hotel, including an electronic water loss prevention system in case of leaks or pipe damage. Each room is installed with efficient fixtures that reduce water usage without compromising on function. EAST Miami also collects and reuses rain water for the cooling tower and all landscaping treatments.