The Greening of Luxury
For three decades, Four Seasons Vancouver has been renowned for having the largest guest rooms in the city. While this still remains true, these days, the Hotel is enjoying a reputation for one of the smallest carbon footprints of any luxury hotel. To see just how our eco-consciousness permeates every aspect of the Hotel, flick a light switch in your room.
The light fixtures that bathe you in a warm, welcoming glow are just a few of the 3,000 that were converted to CFL energy efficient light bulbs. We’ve also introduced LED lighting sources with a life span of approximately 40 years. More impressive is the crown jewel of our Green initiative— the Sempa Hybrid Heating System, which reduces the Hotel’s green house gas emissions by 20 to 50 percent every month. It’s as if we removed 342 cars from the road every year.
No detail is overlooked, including complimentary newspapers delivered to rooms in eco-chic reusable canvas bags rather than plastic. We also recycled enough materials to fill 1,725 full-size pick-up trucks in 2009.
Our commitment to the environment is evident in our dining spaces as well, with innovative sustainable menus that highlight fresh, local (and seasonal) ingredients. Green Table, a recognized food industry agency that sets targeted measurements in conservation, preservation and purchasing, has even certified us for our efforts.
Just a few examples of our green practices, we proudly note we are one of only 30 hotels to receive the prestigious Five Green Key rating – the highest possible rating for hotels that exemplify environmental and social stewardship. And if you have any suggestions on how we can be greener, please let us know.
