Marriott International:
Attaining GreenRE Platinum Certification for a 5-Star Hotel
Scope
In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, stands an iconic 5-star international hotel under Marriott International has set a new benchmark for sustainability and energy efficiency within the hospitality industry. As consultants and facilitators for Green Building Certification (GBC), we were privileged to guide this prestigious establishment through its journey toward achieving the coveted Platinum rating under the GreenRE framework —a testament to its commitment to environmental stewardship, operational excellence, and guest satisfaction.
This case study highlights how the hotel successfully implemented cutting-edge sustainable practices, innovative technologies, and holistic strategies to ensure its building is not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable and socially responsible.
Project Overview
Objective
The primary goal was to achieve Platinum certification under the GreenRE scheme , which evaluates buildings based on their environmental performance across various categories such as energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, materials selection, and innovation. The project aimed to demonstrate leadership in sustainable design and operation while maintaining world-class service standards.
Project Details
Hotel name: Confidential
Location: Central Business District, Kuala Lumpur
Size:
300+ rooms, multiple F&B outlets, conference facilities, spa, gym, and rooftop pool
Year: 2024
Owner/Operator:
Marriott International – Renowned global hospitality group with over 50 years of experience
Project Details
Hotel name: Confidential
Location: Central Business District, Kuala Lumpur
Size:
300+ rooms, multiple F&B outlets, conference facilities, spa, gym, and rooftop pool
Year: 2024
Owner/Operator:
Marriott International – Renowned global hospitality group with over 50 years of experience
Scope
In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, stands an iconic 5-star international hotel under Marriott International has set a new benchmark for sustainability and energy efficiency within the hospitality industry.
As consultants and facilitators for Green Building Certification (GBC), we were privileged to guide this prestigious establishment through its journey toward achieving the coveted Platinum rating under the GreenRE framework —a testament to its commitment to environmental stewardship, operational excellence, and guest satisfaction.
This case study highlights how the hotel successfully implemented cutting-edge sustainable practices, innovative technologies, and holistic strategies to ensure its building is not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable and socially responsible.
Project Overview
Objective
The primary goal was to achieve Platinum certification under the GreenRE scheme , which evaluates buildings based on their environmental performance across various categories such as energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, materials selection, and innovation. The project aimed to demonstrate leadership in sustainable design and operation while maintaining world-class service standards.
Photo credit: Marriot Hotels
Challenges Addressed
The primary goal was to achieve Platinum certification under the GreenRE scheme , which evaluates buildings based on their environmental performance across various categories such as energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, materials selection, and innovation. The project aimed to demonstrate leadership in sustainable design and operation while maintaining world-class service standards.
Solutions Implemented
To address these challenges, our team worked closely with the hotel’s management and stakeholders to implement comprehensive sustainability measures aligned with GreenRE criteria. Key interventions included:
1. Energy Efficiency Enhancements
- Installed high-efficiency chillers and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) air conditioning systems to optimize cooling loads.
- Upgraded lighting fixtures to LED technology throughout the property, reducing electricity consumption by 40%.
- Integrated a Building Management System (BMS) to monitor and control energy use in real time, ensuring optimal performance of HVAC, lighting, and other equipment.
- Conducted regular audits and retro-commissioning to identify further opportunities for improvement.
2. Water Conservation Strategies
- Retrofitted all guest bathrooms with low-flow faucets, showerheads, and dual-flush toilets, achieving a 30% reduction in potable water usage.
- Implemented a rainwater harvesting system to irrigate landscaped areas and replenish the rooftop pool.
- Installed a greywater recycling plant to treat wastewater from sinks and showers for reuse in flushing and cleaning.
3. Waste Reduction Initiatives
- Introduced a zero-waste-to-landfill program , including segregation at source, composting organic waste, and partnerships with recyclers.
- Reduced single-use plastics by replacing bottled water with filtered tap water stations and offering refillable toiletry dispensers.
- Partnered with local NGOs to donate excess food from banquets and buffets to underserved communities.
4. Indoor Environmental Quality Improvements
- Used low-VOC paints, adhesives, and finishes during renovations to enhance indoor air quality.
- Enhanced natural ventilation in public spaces and incorporated biophilic design elements like living walls and indoor plants.
- Provided training to housekeeping staff on using eco-friendly cleaning products and minimizing chemical exposure.
5. Responsible Sourcing and Purchasing
- Developed a sustainable procurement policy prioritizing locally sourced, organic, and fair-trade products to reduce supply chain carbon emissions and support local farmers and artisans.
- Partnered with suppliers who adhere to ethical labor practices and environmental certifications, such as Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) for wood-based products and Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) for seafood.
- Replaced disposable items with durable alternatives, such as reusable glassware and stainless steel cutlery, to minimize packaging waste.
6. Community Engagement & Education
- Launched a “Green Stay” initiative to educate guests about sustainability efforts and encourage participation in conservation activities.
- Organized workshops and seminars for employees on green practices, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
- Collaborated with local schools and universities to promote awareness of sustainable tourism and green building principles.
Result
The implementation of these measures resulted in remarkable outcomes, positioning the hotel as a leader in sustainable hospitality:
Achieved a 35% reduction in annual energy consumption compared to baseline levels.
Reduced potable water usage by 45%, exceeding GreenRE targets.
Lowered greenhouse gas emissions by 30%, equivalent to removing 500 cars from the road annually.
Achieved a 70% diversion rate from landfills through recycling and composting programs.
Increased the percentage of locally sourced goods to 60%, significantly reducing transportation-related emissions and boosting the local economy.
Positive feedback from guests who appreciated the hotel’s commitment to sustainability, leading to increased repeat bookings and referrals.
Realized significant operational cost reductions, with payback periods for investments averaging three years.
Conclusion
By pursuing GreenRE Platinum certification, this 5-star hotel has demonstrated that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. Through strategic planning, innovative technologies, and unwavering dedication, the hotel has become a shining example of what the hospitality industry can achieve when it prioritizes environmental responsibility.
This case study underscores the importance of collaboration between consultants, operators, and stakeholders in driving meaningful change. It serves as an inspiration for other hotels and businesses seeking to embrace sustainability as a core value, proving that even in the most competitive markets, going green is both feasible and profitable.
Key Takeaways
- Early engagement with sustainability experts ensures seamless integration of green features into existing structures.
- Technology plays a pivotal role in optimizing resource efficiency and monitoring performance.
- Employee and guest involvement are critical to sustaining long-term behavioral changes.
- Responsible sourcing and purchasing policies not only reduce environmental impact but also strengthen community ties and brand reputation.
- Achieving certifications like GreenRE Platinum enhances brand reputation and attracts environmentally conscious travelers.
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