Overview

NH Hotel Group: Pioneering Sustainable Hospitality Across the Globe

As a leading hotel chain with a strong presence across Europe, Latin America, and beyond, NH Hotel Group has positioned itself at the forefront of sustainable hospitality. Guided by its NH Room4 Planet program, the company has made a firm commitment to minimising its environmental impact and contributing to a greener future. NH Hotel Group’s sustainability strategy focuses on reducing carbon emissions, conserving water, managing waste, and promoting eco-friendly practices throughout its global portfolio. With properties such as NH Collection Berlin Mitte, NH Collection Madrid Eurobuilding, and NH Capri La Habana, the group is integrating cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices to offer guests eco-friendly luxury without compromising on quality or comfort.

Carbon Reduction and Energy Efficiency

At the heart of NH Hotel Group’s sustainability efforts is a strong focus on reducing carbon emissions. The company has pledged to cut emissions by 20% by 2030, aligning with the Paris Agreement and global efforts to mitigate climate change. One of the group’s flagship properties, NH Collection Madrid Eurobuilding, leads by example with its innovative Building Management System (BMS) that optimises energy usage by automatically adjusting heating, cooling, and lighting based on occupancy. This advanced system has contributed to a significant reduction in the property’s overall energy consumption.

NH Collection Berlin Mitte, another example of the group’s dedication to sustainability, has incorporated solar panels to generate renewable energy, which powers part of the hotel’s operations. The hotel also uses energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the property, reducing electricity consumption and supporting the group’s broader commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

Additionally, NH Hotel Group is committed to sourcing renewable energy across its portfolio. By the end of 2021, 70% of its electricity came from renewable sources, with properties like NH Capri La Habana in Cuba implementing energy-efficient technologies, such as solar thermal systems for water heating, to further reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.

Water Conservation and Sustainable Practices

Water conservation is a critical focus for NH Hotel Group, particularly in regions where water scarcity is a growing concern. The group has implemented water-saving initiatives across its portfolio with a goal of reducing water consumption per guest by 25% by 2030.

At NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderón, the hotel has introduced rainwater harvesting systems, which collect and filter rainwater for use in landscape irrigation and cooling systems. The property also uses low-flow taps and showers, minimising water wastage without sacrificing guest comfort. These measures are part of the group’s broader plan to conserve water resources in its operations.

In Latin America, NH Collection Buenos Aires Centro Histórico has adopted greywater recycling systems, which treat and reuse wastewater for non-potable purposes such as toilet flushing and landscape maintenance. This approach significantly reduces the hotel’s overall water consumption while ensuring that its operations remain eco-friendly.

Waste Reduction and Circular Economy Initiatives

NH Hotel Group has also made significant strides in waste reduction and the promotion of a circular economy. The group has set ambitious goals to reduce waste by 30% by 2025 and achieve zero waste-to-landfill status across many of its properties.

NH Collection Madrid Suecia is one of the leading properties in waste management innovation. The hotel has implemented composting systems to turn food waste into organic fertiliser, which is then used in its gardens. Additionally, the hotel collaborates with local food banks to donate surplus food, ensuring that it does not go to waste. The use of recyclable packaging and sustainable materials in its food and beverage operations also supports NH’s commitment to creating a circular economy.

The elimination of single-use plastics is another critical element of NH Hotel Group’s sustainability strategy. At NH Collection Porto Batalha in Portugal, the hotel has replaced plastic straws, toiletries, and bottles with biodegradable alternatives and bulk dispensers. Reusable water bottles are provided to guests, and water refill stations have been installed throughout the property, contributing to a significant reduction in plastic waste.

Sustainable Building Design and Certifications

NH Hotel Group is dedicated to ensuring that its properties meet the highest sustainability standards in building design. Several of the group’s hotels have received LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certifications, demonstrating their commitment to eco-friendly construction.

The NH Collection Barcelona Constanza is one such property that exemplifies sustainable design. The hotel features green roofs that not only provide insulation and reduce energy consumption but also create a natural habitat for local flora and fauna. The property’s use of solar shading and double-glazed windows further enhances its energy efficiency, minimising the need for artificial heating and cooling.

In Mexico, the NH Collection Mexico City Reforma has been designed with energy efficiency in mind, incorporating natural ventilation systems and eco-friendly construction materials. The hotel is powered partially by renewable energy sources, supporting NH Hotel Group’s vision of reducing carbon emissions across its portfolio.

Biodiversity and Eco-Tourism Initiatives

NH Hotel Group is deeply committed to protecting biodiversity and promoting eco-tourism, particularly in regions where its hotels operate in proximity to natural ecosystems. The group has developed initiatives to ensure that its properties contribute to the protection of local wildlife and ecosystems.

At NH Collection Gran Hotel Krasnapolsky in Amsterdam, the hotel has partnered with local urban farming projects to promote biodiversity in the city. The hotel’s rooftop beehives support urban pollinators, and the honey produced is used in the hotel’s restaurant, offering guests a hyper-local, sustainable dining experience.

In South America, NH Collection Bogota Hacienda Royal is actively involved in biodiversity conservation projects that protect Colombia’s rich natural landscapes. The hotel participates in local reforestation initiatives, helping restore natural habitats and offsetting its carbon emissions through tree planting.

Responsible Sourcing and Sustainable Dining

NH Hotel Group prioritises responsible sourcing throughout its food and beverage operations. Many of the group’s properties have committed to sourcing local, organic produce and promoting sustainable dining practices.

The NH Collection Milano President in Italy sources over 90% of its ingredients from local farms and suppliers, reducing its carbon footprint and supporting sustainable agriculture. The hotel’s restaurants offer farm-to-table dining experiences, highlighting seasonal ingredients and reducing food waste.

NH Hotel Group is also committed to promoting sustainable seafood sourcing across its portfolio. At NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace, the hotel collaborates with the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) to ensure that all seafood served in its restaurants is responsibly sourced, protecting marine ecosystems while offering guests fresh, high-quality meals.

A Greener Future with NH Hotel Group

NH Hotel Group is leading the charge in sustainable hospitality, integrating eco-friendly technologies and responsible practices across its global portfolio. Through its NH Room4 Planet program, the company is driving innovation in carbon reduction, water conservation, waste management, and biodiversity protection. Properties like NH Collection Madrid Eurobuilding, NH Collection Barcelona Gran Hotel Calderón, and NH Collection Mexico City Reforma are setting new standards for sustainable luxury, offering eco-conscious travellers the opportunity to experience responsible hospitality without sacrificing comfort or style.

With a firm commitment to reducing its environmental impact and promoting a circular economy, NH Hotel Group is paving the way for a more sustainable future in the hospitality industry. Whether it’s through energy-efficient design, the elimination of single-use plastics, or responsible sourcing initiatives, NH is proving that sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into every aspect of the guest experience.

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