22 December 2010: The UN World Tourism Organization (UN WTO) has announced an initiative to improve energy efficiency in the hotel industry.

Titled “The Innovative Energy Toolkit for Hotels,” this E-toolkit will be presented during the International Tourism Trade Fair FITUR 2011, scheduled to convene in Madrid, Spain, on 20 January 2011. Key components of the toolkit include measuring energy consumption and the carbon footprint, and outlining sustainable investment possibilities. Designed to reduce the impact of the accommodation sector on the environment and fight climate change, the E-toolkit provides a means for hoteliers to assess their current energy consumption and presents profitable investment alternatives in terms of energy efficiency and renewable energies.

Also at the International Tourism Trade Fair, the UNWTO is organizing a dedicated exhibition area focused on energy and tourism. The exhibition area aims to provide a platform for hoteliers to meet directly with energy experts to discover how better energy management can reduce operational costs, while diminishing the sector’s environmental impact. [UNWTO Press Release]