Winter can be a great time to host cost effective events but it is also a season that puts added pressure on the environment. Increased energy use for heating, high water demand, and waste generation can make winter events a challenging time to be eco-friendly. One of the most impactful ways to reduce your environmental footprint during the winter months is by choosing a sustainable venue. The team at Hyatt Centric Cambridge have written this guest blog outlining what they are doing to help event professionals host great events whilst being sustainable. Located in the northwest of Cambridge, this lifestyle hotel shows great initiative in eco-friendly hospitality with ground-breaking initiatives that exemplify how choosing a sustainable venue can enrich your event and contribute to a better planet.
Meeting Winter’s Energy Demands Sustainably
Travelling in winter requires more energy to keep spaces warm and comfortable. Hyatt Centric Cambridge tackles this challenge head-on through innovative, energy-efficient practices.
Solar-Powered Energy:
The hotel has covered 80% of its roof with solar panels, harnessing renewable energy even in winter’s low-light conditions. This not only supports on-site energy needs but feeds surplus energy back into the local grid, promoting a sustainable energy loop.
Low-Carbon Heating Network:
Through Eddington’s district heating network powered by a low-carbon combined heat and power (CHP) system, the hotel achieves high efficiency in heating. This eco-friendly heating solution ensures that winter energy demands are met sustainably, reducing carbon emissions and pollution.
Why it Matters:
This initiative supports sustainable energy practices that reduce emissions and make winter travel more responsible without compromising warmth and comfort.
Water Conservation: An Essential Winter Practice
With increased demand for hot water in winter, sustainable water management is critical. Hyatt Centric Cambridge’s water conservation practices are innovative.
Rainwater Management Systems:
The hotel participates in Eddington’s innovative water management program, utilising sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) to capture, filter, and reuse rainwater for everyday needs, such as toilet flushing and garden irrigation. This method conserves thousands of litres of water daily, reducing the impact of high water use during winter.
Why it Matters:
Whilst minimising waste of water, this initiative allows guests to enjoy hot showers and comfortable facilities while protecting this vital resource.
Waste Reduction through Smart Hospitality Practices
Winter travel can often lead to increased waste, from disposable cups to packaging and heating-related products. Hyatt Centric Cambridge ’s sustainable approach is waste-conscious and resource-efficient.
Minimising Single-Use Products:
The hotel reduces waste with practices like refillable dispensers for toiletries and recycled soap. LED lighting and motion sensors are also in place to limit energy waste, highlighting a commitment to eco-conscious consumption.
Why it Matters:
Hyatt Centric Cambridge carefully manages waste to reduce environmental impact, encouraging a cleaner, more responsible form of hospitality.
Promoting Eco-Friendly Winter Activities
Sustainable venues often provide low-impact activities to help guests enjoy the winter season while respecting the environment.
Eco-Friendly Transportation Options:
Hyatt Centric Cambridge provides multiple green transportation choices, including 20 electric vehicle charging stations, on-site guest bicycles, and an electric shuttle bus that connects guests to key locations around Cambridge such as the city centre and the rail station. These offerings promote car-free exploration and sustainable access to winter attractions.
Why it Matters:
The hotel’s green transportation options empower guests Cambridge to explore sustainably, reducing emissions and encouraging mindful travel.
100% Green Energy Commitment
Winter’s increased energy demands can make it difficult for venues to maintain a low environmental footprint, but Hyatt Centric Cambridge stays true to its sustainable ethos with 100% renewable energy.
Green Gas and Electricity:
Operating exclusively on green gas and electricity, verified through Renewable Gas Guarantees of Origin (RGGOs) and Biomethane Certificates, the hotel displays an industry-leading commitment to sustainability. Additional verification by EcoArt, an Atos company, underscores this dedication.
Why it Matters:
Hyatt Centric Cambridge powers its operations with clean, renewable energy - making each winter event environmentally responsible.
Education and Inspiration for Responsible Travel
Sustainable venues like Hyatt Centric Cambridge offer more than eco-friendly amenities; they foster a culture of sustainability that inspires guests to make greener choices.
Promoting Eco-Conscious Awareness:
The hotel integrates sustainability into every part of the guest experience, encouraging them to adopt eco-friendly habits during their stay. Through thoughtful design and visible sustainability practices, visitors learn how their choices contribute to a greener planet.
Why it Matters:
Hyatt Centric Cambridge motivates guests to consider the environmental impact of their actions, helping to create a community of eco-conscious travellers who take these habits with them beyond their stay.
Make This Winter a Season of Sustainable Choices
As winter tourism continues to grow, so does the importance of considering the environmental impact of travel. Sustainable venues like Hyatt Centric Cambridge provides a roadmap for eco-friendly hospitality, demonstrating that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. From renewable energy use and ethical dining to waste reduction and green transport options, Hyatt Centric Cambridge sets a new standard for sustainable winter travel.
This winter, consider choosing venues that prioritise the planet; invest in a travel experience that is both enriching and responsible in addition to protecting our planet’s resources and natural beauty.
Further Resources:
Check out our Sustainable Events Toolkit!