Not content with Earth Hour, Marriott International recognises April as Environmental Awareness Month during which its properties around the world strive to embrace the sustainability message.
Marriott Executive Apartments Manama, Bahrain, joined in the initiative with a series of environmental activities scheduled throughout the month.
During April all associates at the property took part in a competition in which they were asked to come up with energy-saving ideas. The three best will be selected and implemented in hotel operation to support the company’s programme on minimising energy usage.
“The main purpose of this competition is to educate our associates on the significance of saving energy for our future. The best ideas that logically can be implemented will become best practice and can be used by other Marriott properties,” said chief engineer Saeed Qureshi.
Around 100 staff also took part in a community beach clean-up day.
“We continually encourage our associates to build upon their commitment by joining clean up activities,” said general manager Hosein Garan. “We ensure every associate has an interest in supporting the elimination of waste, helping the growth of native plants and trees and beautifying communities.”
Aside from these initiatives, the property also encourages its associates in what it calls ‘Green Daily Basics’ in which a series of eco-friendly tips is available to read, and contribute to, each day such as not letting the water run while brushing your teeth.
According to director of sales Marwan Haddad, the commitment to implementing eco-friendly activities in a profitable organisation will actually help business.
He said: “If we can reduce electricity consumption, it helps us reduce operating costs and cut the selling price, hence making our product more competitive in the market.”