SEWA and SCTDA rationalise energy and water in Sharjah hotels

A meeting and workshop were organised with hotel representatives to discuss best practices and standards aimed at reducing energy and water consumption, as well as promoting sustainability in the sector.

Engineer Reem Al Suwaidi, the acting head of the conservation department at SEWA, emphasised the importance of tackling significant challenges, including concealed leaks in walls, ceilings, and underground pipes, as well as apparent leaks in faucets, tanks, and toilets.

The workshop also examined energy-related topics, including lighting, air conditioning, and household appliances, while providing practical solutions for water conservation. These included the installation of low-flow sanitary fixtures, the reuse of treated water for irrigation and cooling, and promoting the reuse of towels and linens among guests. Recommendations on the energy front included replacing traditional bulbs with LEDs, enhancing the efficiency of air conditioning systems through advanced technologies, and upgrading to high-efficiency devices.

The workshop highlighted the significance of educating both hotel guests and employees about adopting sustainable practices, such as turning off unused devices and minimising water usage. The initiative encompassed training employees to identify and fix leaks, alongside enhancing operational efficiency. Hotels such as "Hyatt" and "Ritz-Carlton" have showcased the effectiveness of energy and water conservation programs, resulting in notable savings and a decrease in carbon emissions.

Khaled Yousef Diab from SEWA’s Customer Service Department presented the authority’s new proactive services, focusing on automating processes, integrating AI for faster and more efficient service delivery, and continuously improving based on customer feedback. Participants commended SEWA’s presentation and proposed quarterly meetings to further improve the competitiveness of hotel establishments and draw more investments to the sector.