The Queens Hotel in Leeds unveils new ESG policy

The Queens Hotel in Leeds has announced the introduction of its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) policy.General manager Alistair Campbell unveiled the details as he said the business was committed to responsible business practices. The Queens is now adopting a “proactive approach” to sustainability with the introduction of the ESG policy. It said the initiative reflects the hotel’s “dedication to seamlessly integrate sustainable practices into its day-to-day operations”. The ESG policy outlines concrete environmental goals, including energy and water resource management, nature conservation support, and a strategic approach to measure and reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint in collaboration with organisations like BREEAM and Klimato. Key aims include: phasing out the use of gas in the hotel and going electric, changing all lights to energy efficient LEDs, and the inclusion of carbon footprint and calorie information on menus. The hotel will also be moving away from single use plastic amenities and instead transition to refillable toiletries in rooms. In 2023 the hotel also initiated a ‘Green Team’ in 2023 as it started actively working towards Green Key and Green Tourism accreditations, internationally recognised certifications promoting environmentally friendly practices. Alistair Campbell, general manager of The Queens, said: “We recognise our impact on the environment and the local community as a hospitality business. “The ESG Policy is a tangible demonstration of our commitment to embedding sustainable practices seamlessly into our operations, shaping a responsible and forward-thinking future. With a dedicated Green Team in place, we aim to achieve Green Key and Green Tourism accreditation by May 2024.” Located in an “iconic” landmark building in Leeds, The Queens completed an extensive £16m refurbishment in 2021, preserving the original art deco features that have featured since its establishment in 1937. Stockholm-based company Pandox, which has a portfolio of159 hotels across 12 countries, recently acquired The Queens. The venue will maintain its independent brand identity, operating in collaboration with UK based Axiom Hospitality.