Hilton Colombo: 25 years and still growing

In celebration of 25 years of service in Sri Lanka, Hilton recently planted Kumbuk trees at the Viharamahadhevi Park in Colombo. As part of the hotel’s sustainability program, the tree planting initiative aims to serve the community and benefit future generations.

To commemorate this historic event, Mayor of Colombo Mohamed A.J.M. Muzammil and Hilton Colombo General Manager Rudolf Troestler attended the event, planting the trees and reflecting the work that the Hilton Colombo has done over the years which has contributed towards protecting the environment.

Terminalia Arjuna is commonly known as the Kumbuk tree. The majestic tropical woody tree will contribute towards reducing levels of greenhouse gas emissions and retain water evaporating into the atmosphere, thus protecting and preserving the local environment.

The Hilton Colombo is dedicated to Hilton Worldwide’s sustainability practices by ensuring its sustainable actions are integrated into how the team delivers on its hotels performance. The tree planting initiative in particular is in commemoration of the hotel’s 25 years in Sri Lanka and is a token of appreciation and gratitude to the local community.  

Hilton Worldwide is the first major multi-brand hospitality company to make sustainability measurement a brand standard with their LightStay system and recently earned ISO 9001 and 14001 certifications for quality and environmental management – one of the largest volume certifications awarded for commercial buildings. As part of that standard, Hilton Worldwide-branded properties commit to continuous improvements to their overall sustainability results each year.

Across the portfolio, Hilton Worldwide has a made a five-year commitment, from 2009 to 2014, to reduce energy consumption by 20 per cent, CO2 emissions by 20 per cent, waste output by 20 per cent and water consumption by 10 per cent.

In 2010 alone, Hilton Worldwide saved more than $ 74 million in utility costs through a 6.6 per cent reduction of energy use; 7.8 per cent reduction of carbon output; 19 per cent reduction of waste output; and 3.8 per cent reduction of water use. Hilton Worldwide’s global giving is currently focused on creating vibrant and sustainable communities wherever it operates.