Rezidor Hotel Group has announced plans to reduce energy consumption by 25 per cent at all properties it operates across Europe, the Middle East and Africa over the next four years.

It forms part of the group-wide Think Planet energy-saving programme and was devised by a specially formed, inter-departmental and cross-regional team at the operator.

The first phase of the initiative has involved a company-wide energy audit, which has led to a general Energy Action Plan being drawn up to detail Rezidor's top priorities.

Among some of the features of Think Planet in terms of hotel operation will be the creation of "smart energy habits" - such as switching off lights and equipment.

Basic programme tools are low-cost solutions that include daylight and motion sensors for lighting; condensation water recuperation from air conditioning; and freezer alarms.

Rezidor director of responsible business Inge Huijbrechts said: "Think Planet reinforces Rezidor's position as one of the industry leaders in terms of sustainability.

"Many of our hotels have already introduced progressive measures - now we are spreading these initiatives into all our properties and focus on key energy-saving investments that will have the biggest impact."

Click here for more information about Rezidor's Think Planet programme.