Best Western Commits to Sustainable Hospitality Across Its Global Portfolio

In recognition of the hospitality industry’s responsibility to address global challenges and meet evolving guest expectations regarding sustainability, Best Western BWH Hotel Group is intensifying its commitment to environmental and social responsibility across its extensive global portfolio. Working in conjunction with the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, BWH Hotel Group has launched a new global sustainability strategic initiative named “Because We Care,” which focuses on three essential pillars: Earth, People, and Community (EPC). BWH Hotel Group celebrates the remarkable efforts of its hotels in nearly 100 countries that have already embraced various forms of sustainability.

Larry Cuculic, President and Chief Executive Officer of BWH Hotel Group, emphasized the increasing importance of responsible and sustainable travel each year, urging the global hospitality community not to remain passive but to actively drive change. Ron Pohl, President of International Operations and WorldHotels, acknowledged the industry’s collective effort in addressing significant global challenges and expressed pride in the bolder changes introduced through BWH Hotel Group’s evolving Because We Care program. He also expressed support for hoteliers who have made substantial progress in sustainability.

While numerous sustainability initiatives are underway within the BWH Hotel Group portfolio to reduce environmental impact, the following examples highlight how individual properties are going above and beyond in their sustainability efforts:

1. Prestige Hotels & Resorts in Canada: Nine of their hotels in British Columbia have joined the WorldHotels Collection and are committed to the GreenStep Sustainable Tourism program. They have obtained Sustainable Tourism Certifications across their properties. Initiatives such as the Go Green Program encourage guests to decline housekeeping services in exchange for dining credits or reward points. They also engage in fundraising and donation activities to support JoeAnne’s House, a charity providing accommodations for families near the Kelowna General Hospital.
2. Best Western Plus Kamloops Hotel in Canada: Located in Kamloops, British Columbia, this hotel is both Green Key rated and a Biosphere committed entity. The property features two EV charging stations, uses compostable single-use dishes, and utilizes geothermal heating for their hot tubs and pools. They prioritize sourcing supplies from local vendors within a 100-mile radius.
3. Best Western Premier Hotel Victoria in Germany: Situated in Freiburg, Germany, this hotel has received numerous awards for its environmental programs over the past two decades. Notable initiatives include the installation of 200 square meters of solar panels and four wind turbines, the use of environmentally friendly cleaning agents, reduced water consumption, wood pellet heating, cold-water cooling systems, and comprehensive waste reduction methods. The hotel actively participates in various organizations, such as Sleep Green Hotels, Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS), Innovation Academy, Energieagentur Regio Freiburg, and Green City Cluster Freiburg, which foster responsible hospitality practices.
4. BWH Hotel Group Properties in Great Britain: Throughout Great Britain, BWH Hotel Group has partnered with QIA Services, an independent rating body, to ensure sustainability practices across its hotels. The brand collaborates with QIA Services through its REST accreditation scheme (Responsible, Ethical, Sustainable Tourism), with each property in Great Britain assessed and officially accredited, guaranteeing quality experiences for guests.
5. Best Western Hotel Mediterraneo in Spain: Located in Castelldefels, Spain, this hotel has recently achieved Biosphere Sustainable Certification, recognized by Spain’s Instituto de Turismo Responsible (ITR). The certification acknowledges the property’s commitment to sustainability, including efforts to combat pollution and reduce water consumption.
6. Best Western Plus Westlands in Kenya: Situated in Nairobi, Kenya, this hotel has implemented various community-focused initiatives to enhance sustainability in the area. They engage in Corporate Social Responsibility activities, such as supporting a local children’s home and planning to adopt a baby elephant from David Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage. Energy and waste reduction