The green opportunity

Sustainability is a hot topic in the hotel world, and indeed the wider construction industry, but one which is not mentioned very often in conjunction with serviced apartments.

I’m not sure why that should be, but it’s good to see an occasional exception to the rule such as the proposed Park Street project in Cambridge which will include a Wilde by Staycity aparthotel. The building will include a green, or living, wall to increase the area’s biodiversity, as well as a bee hotel to encourage pollinators.

There have been other examples of operators and developers thinking along eco friendly lines. James Fry of Base Aparthotels is a keen advocate of sustainability, and Oakwood has won awards for its environmentally friendly supply chain, something which company founder Howard Ruby was passionate about. In the US, many new extended stay and serviced apartment buildings are achieving LEED Gold or Platinum ratings.

Perhaps there is more going on in this field than I am aware of, and operators and owners are not making the most of the great PR opportunity running a sustainable property offers their business. If you have a story to tell about your company, please drop me a line at george@internationalhospitality.media