The Hari Hong Kong earns EarthCheck Silver, outperforming regional benchmarks in water, energy, waste and emissions with measurable sustainability results
The Hari Hong Kong has achieved EarthCheck Silver status, a globally recognised benchmark for sustainability performance in travel and tourism. The certification places the Wan Chai hotel among a select group of hotels worldwide that meet rigorous, independently audited environmental and social responsibility standards.
Awarded by EarthCheck, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory group for sustainable tourism, Silver status reflects consistent, measurable performance across key operational areas — including energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction and greenhouse gas management. Some links in this article are affiliate booking links, which may earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you.
What EarthCheck Silver Certification Means
EarthCheck Silver status is not a one-off accolade. To achieve and maintain certification, hotels must:
- Undergo independent annual audits
- Meet stringent performance benchmarks
- Demonstrate continuous improvement across environmental and social indicators
For The Hari Hong Kong, the 2024 audit confirmed performance levels that outperform regional averages and, in several areas, exceed what EarthCheck defines as “regional leader” standards.
Outstanding Environmental Performance in 2024
Water Consumption Well Below Regional Benchmarks
In 2024, The Hari Hong Kong recorded potable water consumption of 204.2 litres per guest night — a figure that stands out within the region.
- Regional average: 361L per guest night
- EarthCheck regional leader level: 253L per guest night
This places the hotel comfortably below both benchmarks, reflecting effective water-saving measures and responsible guest-facing operations.
Energy Use Nearly Half the Regional Average
Energy efficiency was another key strength highlighted in the EarthCheck audit.
- Energy consumption: 101.15 MJ per guest night
- Regional average: 180.3 MJ per guest night
- Regional leader level: 126 MJ per guest night
The hotel’s performance sits almost 50% below the regional average, demonstrating strong building design, efficient systems and operational discipline.
Significant Waste Reduction Achieved
Waste sent to landfill was also notably low during the audited year.
- Waste to landfill: 3.37 litres per guest night
- Regional average: 9.01 litres per guest night
- Regional leader level: 6.31 litres per guest night
These results underscore The Hari Hong Kong’s commitment to waste minimisation, recycling and responsible procurement.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions at Regional Leader Level
The hotel’s greenhouse gas emissions for 2024 were recorded at:
- 18.33 kg CO₂-e per guest night
This figure sits right at EarthCheck’s regional leader benchmark and significantly below the regional average of 25 kg CO₂-e per guest night, reinforcing the hotel’s low-carbon operational approach.
Eliminating Single-Use Plastics at Scale
A key contributor to the hotel’s sustainability success is its ban on single-use plastics, which delivered measurable environmental benefits in 2024, including the avoidance of:
- 109,878 plastic 500ml water bottles
- 47,767 plastic 30ml bathroom amenities bottles
This initiative alone represents a substantial reduction in plastic waste entering the local environment.
Sustainable Design Built In From the Start
Opened in December 2020, The Hari Hong Kong was conceived with sustainability at its core. From design through construction, the project prioritised reducing environmental impact while maximising energy efficiency and guest comfort.
The hotel holds multiple recognised green building certifications, including:
- LEED Silver
- BEAM Plus Silver
- BEEO certification
These credentials reflect long-term commitments to sustainable design, construction practices and efficient building performance.
Community Partnerships and Innovative Initiatives
Beyond internal operations, The Hari Hong Kong actively engages in local sustainability partnerships. One standout initiative is its collaboration with Green Island Cement’s ShellCem Project, which upcycles oyster shells and other seashells — including mussel and scallop shells — into cement, helping divert waste from landfills.
The hotel also features a three-storey green wall along the façade of its second-floor terrace. This living installation contributes to the surrounding microclimate by helping reduce ambient temperatures while enhancing urban biodiversity.
A Commitment to Continuous Improvement
According to General Manager Edward E. Snoeks, EarthCheck Silver status reflects an ongoing journey rather than a final destination:
“We are continually striving to improve our performance in environmental and social sustainability across everything we do, ranging from our energy and water conservation efforts to responsible purchasing, local employment and community support.”
This commitment positions The Hari Hong Kong as a leading example of modern, responsible luxury hospitality in Asia.
At a Glance: The Hari Hong Kong Sustainability Highlights
- Certification: EarthCheck Silver
- Location: Wan Chai, Hong Kong
- Opened: December 2020
- Water use: 204.2L per guest night (well below regional average)
- Energy use: 101.15 MJ per guest night (nearly half the regional average)
- Waste to landfill: 3.37L per guest night
- GHG emissions
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