James Bryce
SPANISH hoteliers can now assess their environmental impact using an online tool developed by the United Nations (UN).
The Hotel Energy Solutions E-toolkit, launched by the UN’s World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), will allow businesses offering accommodation to calculate the costs and requirements of becoming more energy-efficient.
Tourism accounts for around 5% of global CO2 emissions, with hotels and other types of accommodation producing 2% of that total.
“Thousands of hoteliers have already accessed the English version of this free tool, saving money and mitigating their environmental impact,” said UNWTO secretary-general Taleb Rifai.
“With its launch in Spain, thousands more now have the same opportunity and responsibility to bring down their carbon emissions.”
Owners will produce a report based on their hotel’s current energy efficiency and then be given suggestions on the most financially viable ways of increasing their green credentials.
The technology, whose launch in Spain is designed to coincide with World Tourism Day, is already available in other countries including France and Germany.
