In an exciting showcase of excellence, the Accra City Hotel has been honored with the Green Corporate Star Award at the 2024 EMY Africa Awards, held on November 24, 2024, at the Accra International Conference Centre. This recognition celebrates outstanding achievements in environmental sustainability, and Accra City Hotel stood out among a host of distinguished nominees.
The Green Corporate Star Award, sponsored by A Rocha Ghana (ARG), honors businesses that prioritize eco-friendly practices and embed sustainability into their core operations. Organizations nominated for this prestigious accolade actively contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 3, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15, showcasing their commitment to a greener future.
Accra City Hotel emerged victorious after a comprehensive selection process. Mr. Jeffrey Martin Ashiamah, the hotel’s Sustainability Manager, proudly accepted the award, expressing gratitude for the recognition of their hard work. “A green and sustainable environment is essential for our survival,” he emphasized.
A Commitment to Nature
A visit to Accra City Hotel reveals a remarkable commitment to sustainability that began eight years ago. The hotel management set ambitious goals to implement an Integrated Management System, achieving ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 22000:2005 certifications, making them the first ISO-certified hotel for environmental management in West Africa.
Their journey is fueled by numerous initiatives aimed at achieving nine Sustainable Development Goals. One notable effort is the hotel’s adoption of the endangered Yellow Casqued Hornbill, a vulnerable species threatened by hunting. This initiative aligns with the hotel’s largest meeting room, named after the River Ankobra, and features conservation information prominently displayed at the hotel’s exit.
In addition to promoting bird conservation, Accra City Hotel has conducted a comprehensive bird survey and installed bird boxes to create a welcoming habitat for avian visitors.
Their commitment to waste management is equally impressive, with waste separated into ten categories and six earmarked for recycling.
To further reduce their ecological impact, the hotel has transitioned from hardwood charcoal to coconut briquettes, significantly lowering tree-cutting for charcoal production and minimizing their carbon footprint. Energy consumption is also carefully monitored through advanced systems like heat recovery and motion sensors in guest rooms and common areas. Daily energy readings are tracked using the Hotel Carbon Management Initiative tool to meet reduction targets.
Inspiring Change Across Ghana
The achievements of Accra City Hotel serve as a powerful example for businesses across Ghana to embrace sustainability. There are immense opportunities for companies to make a positive impact, whether through bold initiatives or small, meaningful changes.
Every organization has the potential to innovate and integrate eco-friendly practices into their operations, contributing to a healthier environment and economy.
Join the movement by becoming part of BESNet, a network of businesses dedicated to sharing insights, and learning, and spearheading green initiatives for a sustainable future. Let’s all take action today for a greener tomorrow!
