Bangkok Convention Centre (BCC) vice-president of operations, David Good, speaks to CEI Asia about the venue’s Green Globe Silver Status: 

Why was achieving Green Globe silver status so important to BCC?
Our priority is to not only provide a five-star conference experience at BCC, but to also commit to environmental initiatives. We cannot ignore how globalisation and global warming are accelerating the deterioration of our natural resources.

This commitment to the community and the environment began as part of Centara Hotels & Resorts’ sustainability policy. BCC has since developed its own policy to promote environmental practices.

What challenges were overcome in the process?
As the first Centara property to begin the Green Globe programme in 2007, the challenge was in establishing sustainable strategies that met the Green Globe standards. Increasing staff awareness on environmental practices was another test. 

By encouraging our staff to take ownership of the programme, continuous training has been created for all with an emphasis on the need to develop sustainable practices. 

How did staff get involved in the Green Globe programme?
Key to our success has been staff involvement, ensuring they are fully aware of our environmental commitment. Regular departmental green training is arranged to brainstorm and stimulate breakthrough initiatives applicable for daily operations.

One such example is BCC’s recycling of used juice boxes, which are sent to the Thai Beverage Carton Group. They recycle them into tables and chairs for children at rural schools.

How did you achieve best practice results in energy saving?
Water and electricity are consumed in vast quantities at BCC. To counter this we installed a Building Automatic System to monitor and control the mechanical and lighting systems in the building. There is also a sub-metering system to monitor energy consumption of each specific area.