ITC Windsor becomes first hotel in the world to achieve LEED Zero Carbon Status

When it comes to sustainability ITC Hotels have always led the way. The chain, with the maximum number of LEED Platinum Certified Properties in the world, has added yet another accolade to their repertoire with ITC Windsor becoming the first hotel in the world to achieve the LEED Zero Carbon Certification.

What does LEED Zero carbon certification mean?

The LEED Zero carbon certification demonstrates a deep commitment to implementing building and design strategies that assure an enhanced quality of life. It includes creating an environment where any human-produced carbon dioxide is removed from the atmosphere through technological or natural means.

Sustainability, the new bedrock of Indian hospitality

Responsible Luxury and sustainability now resonate with most travelers. Guests are now mindful and consciously seek out destinations that are recognized for their sustainable and responsible practices. ITC Windsor, like many other ITC properties, is one of the leaders in making sustainability their focus for over a decade. For over a decade, ITC Hotels has been the by-word for sustainability in the hospitality industry with Responsible Luxury – a unique concept that promotes sustainable practices in all its Luxury hotels.

“We strongly believe that any effort to save the planet ultimately equals to saving ourselves. Elevating the role of buildings in mitigating climate-related risks and halting resource depletion is critical in achieving a sustainable and regenerative future for all,” said Mr. Nakul Anand, Executive Director, ITC Ltd. stated, on the occasion. “Innovative net zero projects such as ITC Windsor are aligned to India’s vision of significantly cutting emissions, and are a critical driving force behind the transformation of buildings, cities, and communities so that they continue to sustain future generations.”

Sustainability through Responsible Luxury

Responsible Luxury, the ITC Hotels has pioneered several ground-breaking initiatives on environment, hotel ecosystem, health, and well-being. From LEED platinum rating, to being one of the first chains to eliminate single use plastic free products, deployment of radiation harmonizers across the chain, farm to fork low carbon footprint cuisine, clean air and more.

“At USGBC we believe net zero is a powerful target that will move the entire industry forward. It influences the rest of the industry to aim even higher and achieving LEED Zero certification demonstrates these goals are attainable,” said Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO, USGBC. "Given the climate-related risks we are facing and the central role buildings play in climate mitigation, ITC Windsor’s LEED Zero certification for carbon demonstrates visionary leadership because it contributes toward a regenerative future and represents a commitment to making the world a better place. By prioritizing net zero carbon, ITC Windsor is pioneering a new way forward for the industry as a whole.”

How did ITC Windsor achieve the Global LEED Zero Carbon status?

ITC Windsor is powered by its own wind turbine generators and uses innovative energy efficient technologies such as electrical boiler, induction burners and other renewable energy. ITC Windsor’s best practices on sustainability and focused approach to furthering its green eco-system has credited it with the defining distinction of becoming the First Hotel in the World to be LEED Zero Carbon certified. It is also the first hotel in South India to have been awarded Platinum rating under LEED® EB (Existing Building) program. Platinum rating is the highest category of certification preceded by Gold, Silver and Certified.

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