We owe it to our planet to reduce our carbon footprint and become more environmentally aware so that we don’t destroy our planet for future generations. One small action from each individual could contribute greatly to the survival of the earth’s natural resources, its array of species and the health of future populations. The development of cities, buildings and infrastructure destroys the natural world and humans are rapidly enabling the destruction of Mother earth. We need to install a sense of awareness in younger generations to be mindful and conscious of their daily actions so that is becomes a part of their tapestry of life.
Recently, there has been an emergence of green initiatives in South Africa. Coupled with this, there is a drive towards society becoming more eco-friendly; an awareness that has taken hold in many countries around the world. In South Africa, we have organisations hosting tree-planting festivals, green companies designing contemporary furniture from recycled goods and restaurants using locally sourced products or their own home-grown produce.
South Africa is exceptionally innovative when it comes to contributing positively to the environment and overall there appears to be a global shift towards helping our planet thrive and survive while under pressure from an ever increasing population. As a matter of fact, being green, eating organically and being eco-friendly has become quite trendy! The top of our eco-friendly trendy list? Well that would be Hotel Verde in Cape Town, leaders carving the path for energy efficient and sustainable hotels.
Hotel Verde offers responsible travellers a carbon-neutral stay coupled with an understated sense of luxury. This quirky hotel also caters for the business traveller with its conferencing and events facilities. Because of its location which is 400 metres from Cape Town International airport, the hotel is ideal for a quick fly-in meeting or conference.
Hotel Verde is energy efficient in the following ways :
- Each room is tastefully decorated and meets the criteria set out by the Platinum LEED Certification from the United States Green Building Council.
- Per night, 51.51 kWh of electricity is save.
- There is an offset of 22.01kg of carbon.
- 611.27 litres of water is saved (across the hotel). Grey water system, collection of rain water and low-flow fittings no taps and shower heads.
- 220 Photovoltaic panels providing solar power throughout.
- Hotel Verde have a “zero waste to landfill” goal where reusing and up-cycling part of the process. Composting is also used.
- Locally produced and sourced seasonal ingredients are used at the on site restaurant, which also its own vegetable garden.
- Hotel Verde bar supports local businesses and offers an array of locally brewed craft beers.
- Three wind turbines (vertical axis) to harness the energy from the wind, regenerative drive elevators, gym equipment that generates energy, energy-saving heating and cooling system; and passive design strategies to make the hotel extra efficient.
Guests have the option of staying in the following room types: standard, studio, universally accessible, executive and executive suites. Each room is energy efficient and travellers can also enjoy a host of unique features at the hotel. Hotel Verde is a world first and boasts a 6 star rating from the Green Building of South Africa.
The next time you visit Cape Town and you’re looking for the idyllic eco-friendly spot; then look no further than Hotel Verde.
