How luxury hotel properties like Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach are rising to the demand of sustainable tourism
BY VISHAL GUPTA
Luxury hotel properties are increasingly embracing sustainable practices to align with the growing demand for responsible and eco-conscious tourism.
As travellers become more environmentally aware, luxury hotels are recognising the importance of integrating sustainability into their operations, not only to attract guests but also to contribute to the well-being of the planet. This shift represents a departure from traditional luxury hospitality and a commitment to a more holistic and ethical approach.
Nestled along the renowned Juhu beach, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach is one such luxury hotel that captures the city’s essence while offering an escape into a realm of sophistication with the best of sustainable practices.
It intertwines luxury with responsibility, showcasing that opulence can coexist harmoniously with eco-consciousness. From energy-efficient designs to locally sourced ingredients, the hotel’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint sets a commendable example.
The property not only offers top-tier hospitality but also sets a remarkable precedent for other sustainable luxury hotels to follow. Here are some of the major aspects that Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach follows in the day-to-day operations of the hotel basis which other luxury hotels should also align their sustainability goals:
Green building and design: Many luxury hotels are adopting green building practices, constructing or retrofitting their properties to meet stringent environmental standards. These designs often include energy-efficient lighting, insulation, water-saving fixtures, and renewable energy sources like solar panels. Such initiatives help reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint and demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility.
Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach incorporates energy-efficient systems, eco-friendly materials, and efficient lighting. By integrating these features, the hotel contributes to reducing its carbon footprint while providing guests with a comfortable and environmentally conscious experience.
Sustainable sourcing: Luxury hotels are increasingly focusing on sourcing products, materials, and amenities that are sustainable and ethically produced. This includes using locally sourced and organic ingredients for their restaurants, eco-friendly linens and towels, and amenities that minimize single-use plastics. In light of the burden that plastic bottles bear on landfills and their negative effect on the environment, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach takes a step forward in waste management by installing a bottling plant at their property.
This will enable guests to refill water bottles as well as other beverages instead of resorting to using disposable plastic bottles. With this move, the property strives towards reducing single-use plastics. With this practice Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach also aims to set an example for the rest of the luxury hotels to adapt in the day-to-day functioning of the hotel.
Waste reduction and recycling: Waste management is a critical aspect of sustainability. Luxury hotels are implementing comprehensive recycling programs, composting organic waste, and minimising single-use plastics throughout their properties. Some are even adopting zero-waste goals, striving to divert the majority of their waste away from landfills.
Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach has invested in a recycling plant is designed to reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint by reprocessing non-biodegradable waste into usable materials. It will also help create awareness in the community, and provide ways to sustainable living practices. This step has been consciously taken with an effort to give back to the planet.
Water conservation: Water scarcity is a global concern, prompting luxury hotels to implement water-saving initiatives. Low-flow fixtures, water-efficient landscaping, and advanced water management systems are being used to minimise water consumption without compromising guest comfort.
The plant installed at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach has a capacity of 250 litres per hour which can easily produce around 2,000 bottles of clean, mineralised water per day. Through this initiative, not only does Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach wish to make a difference, but it also urges its customers to think, choose and to act sustainably.
Local community engagement: Sustainable luxury hotels recognise their role in supporting local communities. They often engage in community projects, sourcing products from nearby artisans, collaborating with local businesses, and providing job opportunities for local residents. This engagement fosters positive relationships and helps create a more authentic and immersive experience for guests.
Carbon offsetting and emission reduction: Luxury hotels are exploring ways to offset their carbon emissions by investing in renewable energy projects, reforestation efforts, and carbon offset programs. Some properties are even becoming carbon-neutral, demonstrating their dedication to mitigating their environmental impact.
The recycling plant at Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach is designed to reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint by reprocessing non-biodegradable waste into usable materials. It will also help create awareness in the community, and provide ways to sustainable living practices.
Sustainable cuisine and dining: Restaurants within luxury hotels are increasingly adopting farm-to-table concepts, serving dishes prepared with locally sourced, seasonal, and organic ingredients. Additionally, some hotels are growing their own produce on-site, ensuring freshness and reducing transportation-related emissions.
Apart from the bottling plant, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach also manages the wet amenities that are now being offered in dispensers, while the dry ones are being made with corn-starch and wrapped in paper.
Energy efficiency and technology: Luxury hotels are incorporating advanced technologies to optimise energy usage. Smart lighting systems, energy-efficient appliances, and automated climate control contribute to reducing energy consumption while maintaining guest comfort.
Environmental education: Luxury hotels are taking the opportunity to educate their guests about sustainability and environmental conservation. This might include on-site workshops, nature walks, and informative displays that raise awareness and inspire guests to adopt more responsible habits.
Certification and recognition: Many luxury hotels are seeking third-party certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or EarthCheck, to validate their sustainability efforts. These certifications enhance a property’s credibility and reassure guests of their commitment to responsible practices.
Philanthropic initiatives: Some luxury hotels are establishing charitable foundations or partnering with environmental organisations to fund conservation efforts, support local communities, and contribute to environmental causes.
Green events and conferences: Luxury hotels are accommodating the growing demand for eco-friendly events and conferences. They provide sustainable event planning options, including waste reduction, energy-efficient technology, and locally sourced catering.
Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach is now moving from no single-use plastic in guest areas initiative, which they achieved in 2022, to zero tolerance for single-use plastic, serious commitments to reduce energy consumption, food waste management and sustainable food management. And to achieve this, they will undergo certifications through accredited certifications and 100 percent staff training on sustainability.
Thus, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach exemplifies sustainable tourism and hospitality through initiatives mentioned above. It also showcases a commitment to minimising its environmental impact while offering a high-quality guest experience.
In conclusion, luxury hotel properties are rising to the demand for sustainable tourism by integrating environmentally responsible practices across all aspects of their operations as they are recognising that sustainable tourism isn’t just a trend but a necessity for the long-term health of the planet and the industry. These efforts not only align with the values of modern travellers but also contribute to a more sustainable future for the hospitality industry and the planet. By prioritising sustainability, luxury hotels are redefining luxury to include a commitment to the environment and responsible tourism.
The author is the GM of Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach.
