Radisson Blu launches Blu Planet for meetings

International hotel chain Radisson Blu is launching Blu Planet for Meetings, making meetings carbon-free at its hotels worldwide by the end of the year.

The selected First Climate carbon offsetting projects contribute to fighting global warming and support the UN Sustainable Development goals.

“Since the COP21 climate accord, an increasing number of corporations are concerned about fighting climate change and about reducing their carbon footprints, also when they plan meetings,” said: Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, vice president of responsible business, Inge Huijbrechts.

“We know that face-to-face meetings are crucial to business success. Research has shown they boost profitability. With Blu Planet for Meetings, we help our guests have successful experience meetings and help protect our environment by reducing their overall carbon footprint.”

For each meeting or event held at a Radisson Blu hotel, the carbon footprint will be calculated and offset through Gold Standard carbon offsetting projects in Guatemala, Malawi, and India, linked to water sustainability.

“Water sustainability is an important commitment from Radisson Blu, and we are delighted to partner with First Climate on dedicated water projects that will have a positive impact on communities as we help provide safe drinking water,” added Huijbrechts.

Blu Planet for meetings is characterised by advanced technology in rooms and meeting rooms, thus reducing the use of paper.

It also includes eco-labelled venues with labels like GreenLeaders, Earthcheck, or Green Key, waste recycling in all hotels and Safehotels Alliance certification at more than 160 hotels worldwide.

Huijbrechts said: “We’re also encouraging meeting planners to make sustainability come alive as part of their meeting, whether it’s through a city bicycle tour, local tree planting, or a zero-carbon picnic in the park.

“For sustainability minded and environment friendly companies, Radisson Blu should be the brand of choice for all meetings and events, as we jointly create opportunities to promote our shared values.”