Le Méridien Al Aqah to showcase green initiatives at ATM 2009

Following on from the resort's programme of planting 100 new coconut palms along its shoreline in 2008, this year will see activities implemented by resort staff and the local community, including recycling awareness with local schools in May, a clean-up of Khorfakkan Beach in June, an environmental symposium at the resort's conference centre in July, tree planting on the grounds of the resort in August, and an awareness programme about Red Tide, focusing on the need to protect coral reefs, in September.

"During these difficult economic times, we believe it is important to invest in the community and to focus on how we can continue to improve the resort's operations, particularly from an environmental perspective," said Patrick Antaki, General Manager, Le Méridien Al Aqah.

In addition to beautifying the resort, the environmental awareness drive will see cost savings in energy. To date, the resort has cut utilities consumption by 1,793,499 kW (electricity), 6,137,000 gallons (water) and 85,154 litres (gas).

"The effect is far-reaching, in terms of reducing the resort's carbon footprint and also reducing the energy bill. We are redirecting these funds to improve key areas of the resort, such as the children's facility, the Penguin Club," added Antaki.

Reducing the waste sent to landfill is also high on the environmental agenda, with the resort continuing its recycling target of about 7000kg per month, mainly of high-use items such as glass, plastic, oils and newspapers.

After the $2 million upgrade of the beachfront in 2008, the resort will keep the garden area greener by installing solar panels for the garden lights and parking.