Inverness Courier: Highland hotel reaches worId green final

Sat 22 June 2024

A Highland hotel which built a pioneering energy centre has been shortlisted in the first World Sustainable Travel and Hospitality Awards.

The family-run Glen Mhor Hotel in Inverness developed Scotland’s first water source energy solution centre in 2021, in a historic conservation area, saving 250 tonnes of carbon per year.

It initiated its own climate action plan and has introduced programmes to promote inclusion and positive mental health with its 146 employees each having an individual green job title.

Its climate action and people initiatives have now been rewarded with listings in three categories for the worldwide award - the only business in Scotland to be named and one of only two in Britain.

Selected from hundreds of entries, the Glen Mhor will go up against international chains, resorts and famous names in the global vote which is open to everyone.

Voting will close on August 2 and the winners in each category will be announced in the inaugural ceremony in Belize on September 27.

The Glen Mhor Hotel, which also uses its £8 million energy centre to produce malt whisky and craft beer at its on-site Uile-bheist Distillery and Brewery, scored high with judges on three aspects.

Its nominations are for World Leading Sustainable Energy Efficiency Initiative, World leading Sustainable Water and Waste Innovation and the World’s Leading Sustainable Employer.

The award categories were chosen to reflect the United Nations’ sustainable development goals and will be contested by brands such as Accor, Radisson and Mandarin Oriental.

Victoria Erasmus, Glen Mhor’s sustainability director said as a smaller player among fellow nominees, she was incredibly proud of the team's efforts and honoured to have been shortlisted.

“This recognition is a testament to the fact that everyone in the hospitality industry, not just the large chains and resorts, can make a significant impact on sustainability and climate change,” she said,

“The journey has been challenging, but this acknowledgement is the ultimate reward for our hard work and dedication."