Premier Inn owner Whitbread has pledged to attain net zero carbon emissions by 2040, a decade ahead of its prior commitment, as it speeds up its programme to reduce the usage of gas, install solar panels and move to an electric vehicle fleet.
"We're scrutinising all aspects of our operation from business fleet to boilers to achieve our goal," Whitbread CEO Alison Brittain said in a statement.
Details Of Plans
Whitbread's plans involve investing in efficient gas appliances, or electric equivalents, and committing to 100% renewable energy across its UK and German estates as well as moving to electric and alternative fuel vehicles, the company said.
Other Environmentally-Friendly Efforts
Whitbread, which is the owner of over 800 hotels in the UK, said that the move follows its efforts to install energy efficient appliances and smart heating controls in Premier Inns, and the installation of solar panels on 20% of its UK hotels, among other things.
Additional Details Of Plans
The company said that it is planning to reduce its scope one and two emissions to zero. This covers energy use within buildings owned or operated by Whitbread under all Premier Inn hotels and restaurants in the UK and Germany as well as company cars and its logistics fleet.
"Achieving a net zero position a decade earlier than originally planned is the right thing to do for our business, our guests and the environment," Brittain said.
First UK Hotel Chain To Publicly Commit To Reach Net Zero
Whitbread said that it is the first UK hotel chain to publicly commit to reach net zero.
UK 2050 Net Zero Emission Target
In 2019, Britain became the first G7 country to set in law a net zero emission target by 2050, which will require wholesale changes in the way Britons travel, use energy and eat.
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