Here at Refined Travellers we love hearing how businesses big and small make changes to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly, so you can imagine how delighted we were to learn that Swire Hotels has recently implemented new and innovative programmes dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment at EAST Hong Kong, Beijing and Miami! As parent company Swire Properties is aiming to become the leading sustainable development performer worldwide by 2030, this is definitely one step in the right direction. All pleasantries aside, let’s dive into what each of these fabulous business hotels are doing to go green!
EAST Hong Kong
Sugar bar and terrace (Credit/EAST HK)
Urban Garden—Inspired by recent demand for fresh, sustainable ingredients that promote a healthier lifestyle, Executive Chef David Parkin started the EAST Hong Kong Urban Garden project. The garden, which runs the length of the outdoor pool, houses pesticide and chemical free herbs—think basil, chilli, lemon, mint, parsley and coriander as well as okra, green beans and peppers. The fresh, homegrown herbs are used to create delicious dishes at Feast and delectable cocktails at Sugar!
GOMIXER is a state-of-the-art organic waste disposal system that uses natural enzymes to breakdown leftover food into a nutrient rich water that is odour free and can be disposed of through existing sewage treatment facilities. Implementation of this incredible invention would work wonders in curbing food waste.
EAST Beijing
Beijing EAST is located within the Jiangtai area of Chaoyang District, Beijing (Credit/Swire Hotels)
Organic Yunnan Coffee—Coffeeholics would be happy to learn of the Jane Goodall Low-Carbon Organic Yunnan coffee blend! A portion of proceeds from every cup sold is donated toward the Jane Goodall Institute in China and Roots and Shoots, which promotes environmental protection and sustainability.
Paperless Approach—EAST Beijing is focused on reducing paper waste and keeping up-to-date with new green technology systems. From paperless check in and check out, to supplying rooms with iPods loaded with information about the hotel and its surrounding areas, EAST Beijing aims to save our trees by reducing paper usage.
EAST Miami
EAST, Miami is the first Swire Hotels property in North America (Credit/Swire Hotels)
Site Development—To improve energy efficiency, EAST Miami incorporates the Climate Ribbon at its outdoor pool and deck area. An innovative environmental management system designed by Hugh Dutton, the Climate Ribbon is not only an architectural masterpiece but works to capture trade winds from the ocean, bringing a natural breeze into the property and provides shade to the shops and terraces.
Water Efficiency—To reduce water use and save on energy, EAST Miami has installed a smart pump that regulates water pressure throughout the hotel, including an electronic water loss prevention system in case of leaks or pipe damage. Each room is installed with efficient fixtures that reduce water usage without compromising on function. EAST Miami also collects and reuses rain water for its cooling tower and for watering its greenery!
Written By: Lydia Hon