Radisson Blu launches Think Planet
2012-07-10 13:47
In taking responsibility for the local community and
environment, the Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton is embracing the spirit of
sustainable development by initiating and supporting specially selected projects
in 2012.
In line with the
Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group’s newly launched Think Planet campaign - the international hotel group’s ambitious
energy saving program which aims to reduce energy consumption by 25% over the
next five years - the Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton has dedicated itself to making
a difference by changing all light bulbs within the hotel as well as
actively participating in Earth Hour initiatives.
This simple strategy has already resulted in a 5% energy consumption cut back in 2012 alone.
“The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group’s Think
Planet campaign represents more than just an energy cost-cutting exercise.
It is about contributing to a sustainable society. We have created programs,
policies and partnerships in line with the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group’s philosophy
which will result in a measurable and positive impact on society and we
are already seeing very promising results,” says Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton General Manager Eirik
Bergvoll.
In addition, the Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton has initiated
several socially responsible projects to aid local communities, one of these
being Hotel Hope, an orphanage situated in Melville, Johannesburg, for which the
hotel has supplied baby goods and donated clothing and assisted with the house
maintenance as well as allowing the orphanage use of the Radisson as a venue
for their annual meetings.
The Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton also facilitated work
experience and training to teenage mothers in crises and since the commencement
of the project, the hotel has in fact offered employment to over 10 mothers.
Continuing with the aim of job creation and local
development, the Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton has also partnered wit the City of Johannesburg Tourism to offer
unemployed youth “on the job” training as well as presenting on-site skills
development programs to previously disadvantaged communities.
“Social
development and community outreach projects are a very important part of our
ethos and every staff member takes these initiatives very seriously. Last year,
the Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton team assisted the local community in cleaning up
Tembisa Park in Eastrand and gave their hand in planting trees at Mushroom Park
in Sandown. This year, we aim to assist students with disabilities by offering
internships and training at the hotel,” adds Eirik Bergvoll.
