Hilton awarded sustainability accolade

The Carbon Trust Standard was awarded to Hilton Worldwide for reducing its carbon dioxide emissions without offsetting.

Hilton Worldwide has reduced its emissions by 15% since 2005 by introducing energy efficiency measures in its hotels in partnership with the Carbon Trust, an independent body created by the government to tackle climate change.

Energy-saving initiatives introduced by Hilton include:

• Installation of combined heat and power units to generate on site electricity
• Introduction of a sustainability reporting system
• Upgrade of lights
• Regular audits of thermal insulation systems
• Ensuring all equipment is running as efficiently as possible

Hilton has also been encouraging staff to promote sustainability by identifying ‘energy champions' in each of its hotels and running a green incentive scheme.

The hotel group aims to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by 20% by 2014.

Carbon Trust Standard general manager Harry Morrison said: "By reducing its carbon emissions, Hilton Worldwide will ultimately make the business more efficient. The standard is a credible mark of excellence that lets customers and other businesses know about the good work that Hilton is doing to reduce its environmental impact."