Four Seasons Hotel Madrid Boosts Leadership in Sustainability with Comprehensive Approach to Environmental and Social Impact
At a time when sustainability has become the bedrock for the future of the hotel sector, Four Seasons Hotel Madrid is consolidating its position as an international benchmark for the implementation of environmental, social, and governance practice (ESG), leading a hospitality model that blends luxury with a far-reaching commitment to society and the planet.
Since it opened its doors in 2020, the hotel has designed a company-wide sustainability strategy. This vision has been recognised by international organisations through certifications such as LEED-NC Gold from the US Green Building Council; Green Key International, promoted in Spain by the Environmental and Consumer Education Association (ADEAC); and Responsible Hospitality VERIFIED, the sustainability standard for luxury hotels backed by Forbes Travel Guide.
Since Day One
Located in the iconic Centro Canalejas, the hotel was designed according to strict sustainable construction criteria. It is equipped with energy saving technology such as water reduction and conservation systems, smart consumption controls in guest rooms and common areas, and a proactive efficient waste management policy. Additionally, various initiatives in effect at the hotel include the complete elimination of single-use plastics and comprehensive recycling programs for materials including cardboard, glass, aluminium, cooking oils, and toner cartridges.
Furthermore, the hotel runs exclusively on renewable energy obtained solely from renewable or carbon-free sources and has supported electric mobility by installing electric vehicle charging stations in both its own car park and that of Centro Canalejas. Guests also have access to a fleet of electric cars for getting around, thereby fostering low-emission travel experiences.
Innovation and Sustainability
One of the most outstanding environmental measures implemented by the hotel is the use of AI-based technology to reduce food waste. In turn, the menus offered by the various gastronomy spaces at the hotel, such as Dani Brasserie, Isa Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, and El Patio, prioritise local, seasonal, and sustainable products including vegan and vegetarian options.
The hotel also supports sustainable fishing and animal welfare, only sourcing eggs from cage-free hens for its entire culinary offer.
Beyond Environmental Issues
However, the commitment from Four Seasons Hotel Madrid to society goes beyond environmental issues. Since day one, the hotel has maintained an ongoing role in the social transformation of its environment by fostering local jobs, culture, and inclusive economic development.
Under strategic partnerships with organisations such as the A LA PAR Foundation; the PRODIS Foundation; the Tomillo Foundation; the Altius Foundation; the HogarSí Foundation; Pinardi; TaxiLuz; Cruz Roja; Cris contra el Cáncer; and the National Down’s Syndrome Association, the hotel is engaged in various ESG programs. These programs focus on a range of topics including promoting social insertion, professional training, food donation, monthly corporate volunteering days, and donations of bedclothes, furniture, and appliances.
Furthermore, Four Seasons Hotel Madrid has partnered with Winnow to combat food waste by using artificial intelligence to maximise operational efficiency and data accuracy. In only six months, the hotel has reduced food waste by 30 percent.
As part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion, the hotel has added profiles from 43 different nationalities to its workforce and works proactively to meet and surpass the legal requirement for 2 percent of company jobs to be filled by persons with disabilities, especially through the direct recruitment of persons with mental disabilities.
The hotel has also supported the Juegaterapia Foundation on the Kiciclo initiative to create tricycles adapted to children undergoing chemotherapy treatment at the Paediatrics Department of the Sant Pau y Santa Creu Hospital in Barcelona.
A Model for the Future of This Sector
The commitment from Four Seasons Hotel Madrid is part of its DNA. It offers a luxury hospitality experience while upholding environmental and social responsibility.
“Genuine luxury hospitality does more than provide an impeccable service, it encompasses our responsibility to look after the planet and support the local community in which we serve,” says Alejandro Bernabé, Regional Vice-President and General Manager of the hotel.
To see all the sustainability initiatives undertaken by Four Seasons Hotel Madrid, visit the website.