The five-star hotel Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa in Edinburgh has received the internationally recognised Green Key certification, a global benchmark for environmental excellence in the hospitality sector, for the third year running. Fewer than 8,000 venues hold the award worldwide, which is managed by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
General Manager Martijn Zengerink said, “This is the third consecutive year that we’ve effectively demonstrated our commitment to environmental excellence. This recognition is much more than a certificate on the wall, it’s confirmation that our team is continuously doing our part to be sustainable in every area.”
He added, “This award is for the whole team. Every single member plays a part – whether it’s measuring food waste, rethinking procurement, or simply switching off lights at the right time.”
The Sheraton Grand has rolled out a series of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including the introduction of AI food waste platform Winnow, which has helped cut food waste by 15%. The move has also led to operational efficiencies in staffing and kitchen management.
The hotel’s sustainability agenda now influences its corporate bookings too, with client conversations increasingly centred around ESG alignment. “Sustainability is now part of the negotiation,” said Martijn. “They want to know what we’re doing, how we’re doing it, and how it supports their own ESG goals.”
Recent changes include prioritising plant-based menus at events, eliminating single-use plastics, installing energy-saving technologies, and reducing water use in the spa.
Picture: Marriott, Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa
