Measures to reduce single-use plastic at Hilton Hotels UAE

Innovative measures based on audits and workshops

By conducting audits and workshops in the fall of 2022, the origins, potential and strategies for reducing single-use plastic were identified and developed. Inspired by the findings from the audits, the pilot hotels looked for innovative solutions and tested sustainable alternatives in order to exploit the savings opportunities identified. Based on the results, the first concrete measures have already been implemented in 3 pilot hotels. One example of this is the use of the air-to-water purifier, which converts moisture from ambient air into high-quality drinking water.

Measures and practical results

In the selected pilot hotels of the Hilton Group in the United Arab Emirates, a wide range of measures are already making a significant contribution to reducing single-use plastic. From creative water provision without plastic to the extensive elimination of single-use packaging with the involvement of the supply chain, remarkable alternative solutions have already been introduced.

Specific examples of measures from the pilot hotels:

• Single-use plastic toiletries have been replaced by large-format alternatives.

• Bathroom amenities are provided on request

• Use of atmospheric water generators that capture the humidity in the air and convert it into quality drinking water that guests can enjoy either with their own reusable glasses and bottles or by purchasing a reusable branded bottle from Hilton.

• Installation of water dispensers in all dining areas, with a digital display informing guests how many plastic bottles have been avoided simply by using the dispenser systems.

• Switch to reusable plastic cups at pools and beaches

• Disposable plastic lids for hot drinks are only available on request

• Paper straws are now only available on request to reduce overall consumption of disposable items

• Individually wrapped tea bags have been replaced by loose teas in the lobby bar.

• Plastic bottles carried by guests are separated and recycled by housekeeping

• Switch from plastic cutlery and plastic toothbrushes to wooden alternatives

• Plastic packaging for large buffet trolleys and food containers has been replaced with replaced with reusable alternatives

• Plastic aprons are no longer used in the kitchen, with the exception of the butchery

• Disposable packaging for towels in the gym and pool area has been abolished

• Active contact with the supply chain, to reduce unnecessary packaging and raise awareness.

The savings achieved through the measures taken are currently being analyzed and processed. The final results will be made available to the industry upon completion. In addition, the hotels are continuously reviewing the implementation of further measures that offer additional savings potential.