WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) announced that its newest version of the LEED green building program, LEED v4.1, is open for registration for both new construction projects as well as interior spaces with LEED v4.1 BD+C and LEED v4.1 ID+C. “The hallmark of LEED is ‘continuous improvement’—and that is exactly where we are going with LEED v4.1,” said Mahesh Ramanujam, President & CEO, USGBC. “LEED v4.1 is set to raise the bar. It is the most comprehensive, collaborative, accessible and effective LEED system to date. From improving energy performance to emphasizing human health and integrative building design, LEED is encouraging...

DAVOS, SWITZERLAND—Seven UN entities have come together, supported by the World Economic Forum, and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) to call for an overhaul of the current electronics system, with the aim of supporting international efforts to address e-waste challenges. The report calls for a systematic collaboration with major brands, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), academia, trade unions, civil society and associations in a deliberative process to reorient the system and reduce the waste of resources each year with a value greater than the GDP of most countries. Each year, approximately 50 million tons of electronic and electrical...

SPAIN—Across Spain, hotels are prominently flagging their green credentials as they increasingly take steps to reduce their environmental footprint and appeal to a new generation of eco-aware consumers. The country’s Paradores, state-run hotels in historic buildings such as former palaces and monasteries, are the latest to look to a greener future, switching to renewable energy sources by incorporating features such as biomass technology or solar panels. “The Paradores’ commitment to become 100 percent green energy driven is an important milestone in the Spanish hotels sector,” says Carlos Ortega, Executive Vice President of the Hotels division at JLL Spain. “Being a public-sector...

LAS VEGAS—Las Vegas Sands has again been recognized by CDP, the international nonprofit environmental disclosure platform, on both the Climate Change and Water A List. This is the company’s fourth year in a row to attain a leadership position for Climate Change and its first on the Water A List. Las Vegas Sands is proud to be recognized and continues to work towards additional reduction of its environmental impact. “The CDP provides a comprehensive framework that continues to inspire us to become leaders in our industry and provide guidance for strategic direction,” Norbert Riezler, Senior Vice President of Global Sustainability...

AUSTIN, TEXAS—With the release of major climate reports depicting alarming risks to the environment and economy, an increasing number of companies are establishing environmental, social and corporate governance initiatives. Swytch, a blockchain-based clean energy platform, recently conducted a survey of 1,000 employees in the United States who either currently work for or have worked for a company with over 5,000 employees to explore their sentiments around employers’ corporate sustainability activities. The survey results show that employees of all generations seek companies that have programs set in place to be more sustainable. Gen Z and Millennials are the most enthusiastic about pursuing...

ATLANTA—Increased building activity, operational demands, changes in codes and design and new energy efficiency strategies were just some of the topic discussed among buildings professionals at the 2019 ASHRAE Winter Conference and AHR Expo. The 2019 ASHRAE Winter Conference took place last month at the Omni Hotel Atlanta at CNN Center and the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, ASHRAE’s headquarter city. More than 3,200 individuals registered for this year’s Winter Conference. The AHR Expo attracted HVACR professionals from around the globe and provided a forum for manufacturers to showcase the latest products and services. The Expo drew more than 65,000...

CAIRO, EGYPT—Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence announced that it is the first Hotel in Egypt to install an electric car charging station, which is now fully-operational. “We pride ourselves as the first hotel in Egypt to install an electric car-charging station,” says Mahmoud ElKeiy. General Manager. “It is essential we protect the environment, which not only will save gas emissions and energy but it will also empower our guests to live sustainably, and become a valuable convenience for them to use during their stay with us.” The brand new charging station works with a variety of vehicles, such...

BANGKOK—Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas has become part of the IHG family of brands. InterContinental Hotels Group is one of the world’s leading global hotel companies with a growing number of luxury brands including InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Regent Hotels & Resorts and Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. IHG purchased the award-winning hospitality and wellness company from private equity fund Pegasus Capital Advisors for $300 million. The sale includes the management of 16 hotels and resorts, 37 spas and sister companies Evason and Raison d’Etre. Following the acquisition Six Senses is now expected to grow to 60 hotels within the next...

ORLANDO, FLA.—The NAFEM Show, held every two years, wrapped up in Orlando on February 9 at the Orange County Convention Center. More than 600 suppliers featured their latest products to help restaurateurs and hoteliers save money, energy, water and reduce waste. It would be impossible to mention every product showcased in a single article. The following is just a sampling of some cool products found among the many aisles at the show: Bluewater unveiled its Bluewater Pro 400 and Bluewater Spirit water purifier model lines that help foodservice professionals deliver fresh produce, achieve clean glassware and cutlery, and offer coffee...

LAS VEGAS—MGM Resorts International, in collaboration with R&R Partners and Resources+, received the “Organic Promotion, Corporate-Community” award for the “Spotlight on Hunger” video campaign during the 3rd Annual Shorty Social Good Awards. The Shorty Social Good Awards is an awards program created to raise global awareness around the positive impact brands, agencies and nonprofits can have on society. “Spotlight on Hunger” focused on building awareness around the company’s support of Three Square food bank, by demonstrating how MGM Resorts is an integral part of the fabric of the community it serves. In addition, MGM Resorts also earned a Silver Distinction...