Carlson Rezidor promotes green buildings in emerging markets

Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group is partnering with the IFC, a member of the World Bank Group that focuses on private sector development, and CDC Group, the UK development finance institution, to promote the design and construction of green buildings in emerging markets.

The Radisson Blu Hotel, Accra Airport is the first hotel in Africa to receive IFC’s EDGE green building certification. CDC is a major investor in the larger real estate development where this hotel is located.

EDGE encourages resource-efficient buildings "by demonstrating the most cost-effective ways to reduce resource intensity early in the design process."

Ritu Kumar, director of environment and social responsibility at CDC Group, said: “Investing in green buildings is not only essential for a sustainable future, but also makes good business sense. It is vital that the growth in real estate on the African continent is environmentally and financially sustainable and contributes to reaching COP 21 targets. We’re proud to have supported the Radisson Blu reach EDGE certification at The Exchange, our real estate investment in Accra.”

Through the partnership, Carlson Rezidor will use the EDGE eco-analysis software for all of its future hotel projects in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Elie Younes, EVP & CDO at Rezidor, said: “EDGE is a very valuable tool to support our growth strategy in emerging markets. It will be a catalyst to securing financing from hotel investors as it measures a building’s future performance, which reduces risk. EDGE also helps us to promote good corporate citizenship and leverage our sustainable hotel brands.”

“Our landmark partnership with Carlson Rezidor marks an important step forward to greening the growing hotel business in Africa and other emerging markets," said Prashant Kapoor, principal Green Buildings Specialist for IFC and the inventor of EDGE. “IFC hopes that other leaders in the hotel industry will follow Carlson Rezidor’s example and consider adopting EDGE. Only by responding to the growing awareness of environmentally concerned customers can we meet their expectations while building a more profitable and sustainable future for all.”