Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group pledged to eliminate single-use plastics across its luxury hotel portfolio by the end of March 2021. The hotel company plans to stop using these products across all operational departments, including rooms, spa, transport, restaurants and bars.
“Plastic waste is one of the gravest environmental concerns affecting our planet today,” James Riley, Mandarin Oriental’s group chief executive, said in a statement. “While our relatively small footprint limits our contribution to the world’s plastic reduction, as one of the most iconic luxury global hotel groups we are in a strong position to drive important changes in the industry.”
Mandarin Oriental already was in the process of eliminating various single-use plastics before it made its most recent commitment. Of the 23 products it identified as the most common single-use plastic items, it said 86 percent already have been eliminated or are being phased out.
Riley noted Mandarin Oriental’s push to eliminates single-use plastics is part of the company’s wider initiative to operate responsibly and sustainably. As part of this effort, the company is collaborating with its suppliers to drive responsible procurement and provide alternative products suitable for luxury hotels.
All Mandarin Oriental hotels have defined annual goals to address these issues. To ensure accountability, progress reports will be issued every six months highlighting achievements and difficulties. The first report will be published at the end of 2020.
Mandarin Oriental operates 32 hotels and seven residences in 23 countries and territories.