Fairmont Jaipur takes sustainability initiatives very seriously and its innovative approach highlights the hotel’s dedication to environmental stewardship. The property implements eco-friendly practices throughout all operations. It also implements rigorous food safety protocols to minimize waste, and its waste management strategies are equally innovative. Recycling, reusing, and waste reduction form the foundation of a circular economy within the hotel.
TheCSRUniverse had an exclusive interview with Rajat Sethi, General Manager, Fairmont Jaipur wherein he shared how the property’s sustainability efforts have yielded remarkable results. He also spoke about how they have integrated sustainability into various aspects of their operations.
Sethi touches upon the hotel’s dedication to providing exceptional service and comfort along with prioritizing environmental responsibility and community empowerment. He also explains how their sustainable practices not only contribute to the well-being of the surroundings but also foster a sense of environmental consciousness and community engagement.
Scroll down to read the full interview:
Q. Please elaborate on the sustainability initiatives taken by Fairmont Jaipur.
A.Fairmont Jaipur distinguishes itself in sustainable hospitality with innovative initiatives like Orbisk, an AI-driven solution that significantly reduces food waste. This pioneering approach reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship. Beyond Orbisk, we integrate eco-friendly practices across all operations. Rigorous food safety protocols minimize waste, while innovative waste management strategies further enhance our sustainability efforts. Our comprehensive approach prioritizes recycling, reusing, and reducing waste, fostering a circular economy within our hotel.
Q. Can you share some success stories or notable achievements related to the property’s sustainability efforts?
A. Orbisk takes center stage in our commitment to sustainable weddings. By using this innovative technology, we have achieved a remarkable 30% reduction in plate waste. We further emphasize sustainability through a live cooking counter, ensuring fresh food preparation and reducing leftovers.
Our "first in, first out" inventory system complements these efforts, ensuring responsible sourcing and minimizing overall waste.
Also, we champion water conservation through a multi-pronged approach. In guest rooms, low-flow showerheads, aerators, and sensor taps significantly reduce water usage. Our commitment extends outdoors with a rainwater harvesting system that stores rainwater for irrigation. We utilize an advanced STP (Sewage Treatment Plant) to recycle 70% of wastewater, providing treated water for irrigation and cooling towers.
Q. In what ways do you educate and involve your guests in the implemented sustainable initiatives?
A. We have integrated sustainability into various aspects of our operations, upon check-in we provide eco-friendly wooden key cards. In-room cards further educate our guests about our water and linen reuse initiatives. Our social media campaigns further amplify our efforts to promote sustainability and inspire our audience to join our sustainable mission.We prioritize locally sourced products, supporting the 'Vocal for Local' movement to empower local communities and preserve regional traditions. Guests can indulge in authentic experiences through events like "Shaam-e-Khaas," where local artists perform folk music, enriching the guests' stay while fostering community development.
Q. Are there any partnerships or collaborations with external organizations or local authorities to support and strengthen your sustainable practices?
A. To reduce pollution and embrace sustainability, we have implemented various eco-friendly practices. We have our in-house water bottle plant, producing reusable bottles to minimize plastic waste. Additionally, we have adopted paperless check-in/check-out systems and provide 100% biodegradable in-room amenities. Through partnerships with innovative startups like “Soap for Hope”, we embrace circular economy approaches, significantly reducing plastic bottle waste.We even promote renewable energy by partnering with RUCO-certified vendors who convert used cooking oil into biodiesel.
Q. How does Fairmont Jaipur ensure giving back to society? Can you highlight some of the initiatives undertaken by the property?
A. Fairmont Jaipur takes pride in giving back to the community through impactful CSR initiatives. These efforts range from environmental stewardship through tree plantation drives near the hotel, to supporting health and wellness with blood donation camps. Additionally, the hotel demonstrates its commitment to education and infrastructure by donating lights and stationery in the school and nearby village.
Q. How do you engage with the local community to promote and support sustainable practices?
A. We engage with the local community through outreach programs, skill development workshops, and employment opportunities. By involving local artisans and suppliers, we not only support the economy but also preserve traditional craftsmanship and culture.
Q. Could you provide specific details on any upcoming projects or initiatives aimed at further enhancing your sustainability practices?
A. We have some exciting upcoming projects geared towards enhancing sustainability. One of our key initiatives involves launching a free skill development program for our neighbors in the village. This program equips participants with valuable skills, preparing them for potential careers within our hotel. It's a win-win for our community, fostering local talent and enriching our team.
One innovative project we are particularly enthusiastic about is rainwater harvesting. By harnessing rainwater, we can utilize unused space, such as the banquet terrace, and preserve water for future use. This initiative not only helps us conserve water resources but also contributes to our overall sustainability goals for 2024 and beyond.
Q. How does Fairmont Jaipur measure and monitor the effectiveness and impact of its sustainability initiatives?
A. Fairmont Jaipur employs a robust system to gauge the effectiveness and impact of our sustainability initiatives. We regularly monitor key performance indicators, conduct environmental audits, and actively seek feedback from stakeholders. This comprehensive approach allows us to pinpoint areas for enhancement and track our progress toward sustainability goals.
As part of our monitoring process, we conduct random audits facilitated by our sustainable champion, who submits monthly reports. We meticulously track metrics such as food waste and energy savings, which are uploaded onto our Green Initiative Assessment platform (GAIA 2.0) and contribute to our Green Globe Certification.
In our commitment to reduce waste, we implement measures such as monthly reduction targets and locally sourced vegetables to minimize carbon emissions associated with transportation. Moreover, we ensure responsible disposal of used cooking oil by partnering with RUCO (Repurpose Used Cooking Oil) certified vendors, who convert it into biodiesel, thereby promoting renewable energy.
Furthermore, our efforts extend to composting food waste, which is transformed into nutrient-rich manure for internal horticulture, closing the loop on organic waste management. Through these initiatives and ongoing monitoring, Fairmont Jaipur remains dedicated to fostering a sustainable future while continuously striving for improvement.
Q. Are there any long-term goals for expansion or additions to the current sustainability initiatives?
A. We are extending our sustainability initiatives beyond our premises by organizing cleanliness drives for lesser-explored tourism spots near to the hotel. Additionally, we are committed to empowering the local community by hiring maintenance supervisors from nearby villages. This approach not only enhances the environmental well-being of our surroundings but also fosters economic opportunities and strengthens our connection with the local community.
Q. What are some of the sustainable initiatives that you consider a must for the hotel industry? Are there any policy-level interventions that could help the industry in attaining higher levels of sustainability?
A. Some essential sustainable initiatives for the hotel industry include energy efficiency upgrades, waste reduction strategies, promoting responsible sourcing and consumption, and investing in staff training and guest education. Policy-level interventions, such as incentivizing sustainable practices and setting industry-wide standards, can play a crucial role in driving the adoption of sustainability practices across the hospitality sector.
