In a significant stride towards sustainability, Premier Inn Hotels in the Middle East has unveiled its ‘Force For Good’ programme, coinciding with the UAE’s Year of Sustainability and the pivotal COP28 event set to take place in Dubai this winter. The initiative, stemming from Whitbread’s global strategy, aims to foster a positive impact on society and the environment.
Opportunity, Community, and Responsibility: The Three Pillars
The ‘Force For Good’ programme is structured around three core pillars: Opportunity, Community, and Responsibility. Premier Inn is committed to nurturing an inclusive work environment, contributing to community welfare, and operating with respect for both people and the planet.
Simon Leigh, Managing Director of Premier Inn Middle East, remarked, “Premier Inn is proud to have launched its Force For Good programme in the Middle East. Doing business in a responsible way; being a Force for Good is at the heart of everything we do.” He highlighted the initiative’s kick-off with management-led roadshows across their 11 hotels in the UAE and Qatar, aiming to align the teams with the company’s sustainability vision.
Aligning with Dubai’s Sustainability Goals
The programme is in harmony with the Dubai Sustainable Tourism initiative and the UAE’s ambition to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050. Premier Inn’s sustainability efforts include waste management, energy efficiency, and responsible sourcing. Notably, the introduction of Al Ain Water’s new recycled PET water bottles in hotel rooms marks a significant step towards reducing plastic waste.
Innovative Waste Management
Addressing the issue of plastic waste, which constitutes a substantial part of hotel waste, Premier Inn has adopted the use of Al Ain Water’s rPET bottles, made from post-consumer recycled plastic. This move aligns with the UAE’s vision to minimize plastic waste and is expected to divert over two million single-use plastic bottles from landfills annually, while also reducing CO2 emissions by 75%.
Targeting Waste Reduction
With a goal to halve waste to landfill by 2024, Premier Inn has partnered with Dulsco Environment for waste management services. This collaboration, focusing on properties in Dubai, incorporates new technology and training to enhance waste reduction and recycling efforts.
Broader Environmental Efforts
The hotel chain has installed LED lighting throughout its properties and utilizes solar energy for water heating and recycling systems in several locations. A commitment to sustainable sourcing is also evident, with plans to use sustainable cotton for the majority of its needs by 2025.
Cultivating a Green Culture
A ‘green committee’ has been established, drawing members from various departments to spearhead sustainability initiatives and promote eco-consciousness among guests.
Community Engagement through World Vision
Underpinning its community commitment, Premier Inn has partnered with World Vision to support children in need in the Philippines. Each of the 11 Middle East hotels sponsors a child from Bohol, providing them with access to education, healthcare, and protection services, fostering a direct connection with the children and their community.
For more information on the ‘Force For Good’ programme, visit Premier Inn Middle East or follow @premierinngulf on social media.
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