Sustainability is no longer an optional add-on; it has become a critical core value for businesses worldwide. Fairmont Singapore demonstrates how to embrace this responsibility to create meaningful impact—not just within the hospitality sector, but far beyond. During our recent visit, we were inspired by their forward-thinking initiatives, ranging from cutting-edge technologies to a deep focus on community and employee well-being.
A Holistic Approach to Sustainability
Fairmont Singapore’s sustainability vision is clear: it requires a comprehensive approach. They understand that focusing on just one aspect isn’t enough, so they tackle energy, water, waste, and social impact simultaneously. For example, their food waste management is truly impressive. Using smart cameras in their kitchen, they track discarded items, improving processes and reducing waste. By partnering with innovative companies, they’ve managed to cut food waste by 80% through turning it into vapour, repurposing the balance substrate into fish feed.
Fairmont has also implemented a multi-year energy investment plan, focusing on minimizing energy waste in guest rooms and back-of-house areas. For example, when a guest opens the balcony doors of their room, the air-conditioning automatically turns off. Advanced sensors also ensure lights are automatically turned off when not needed, saving energy efficiently.
A Thriving Urban Farm
One of Fairmont Singapore’s standout initiatives is their urban aquaponics farm, launched in 2019. This state-of-the-art facility is the first of its kind in Singapore’s hospitality sector and is an excellent example of how innovation can meet sustainability.
The farm combines aquaculture (fish farming) with hydroponics (growing plants in water) in a closed-loop system. Fish waste enriches the water with essential nutrients for plants, while the plants naturally filter the water, creating a sustainable cycle.
The farm grows a variety of leafy greens, herbs and vegetables (including lettuce, basil and mint), which are used in the hotel’s restaurants and bars. Guests can enjoy fresh, locally grown produce in their meals, knowing they are supporting an eco-friendly process. Fairmont Singapore also supports local grower, Miereia Vanilla, that is current growing their vanilla plants on the farm.
The urban farm is more than just a food source; it also serves as an educational platform where visitors are introduced to the possibility of growing their own produce in an urban setting . This aligns with Fairmont Singapore’s broader goals of sourcing locally and reducing its carbon footprint.
Creative and Localized Sustainability
Fairmont Singapore’s efforts extend beyond farming. Their partnerships with local organizations lead to unique and innovative initiatives, such as creating a sustainable Christmas tree made from chopsticks collected at hawker centers. These are transformed into stunning decorations by ChopValue, demonstrating how small innovations can drive significant change. In 2024, they have 7 Christmas trees at their venues that upcycle over 650,000 used chopsticks and the best part is these trees are reusable for at least 3 years. Partnerships are a cornerstone of Fairmont’s sustainability journey.
Employee mental wellbeing
Fairmont Singapore’s sustainability focus extends to the well-being of their employees. They provide training and development programs, regular feedback sessions, and unique bonding initiatives, such as planting trees with personalized name tags for long-serving staff members. They’ve recently introduced ‘dialogue sessions,’ providing employees with an opportunity to share feedback on the business. Each session features a senior leader from a different department, fostering a holistic approach to organizational improvement.
Looking Ahead
Fairmont Singapore is not resting on its laurels. Their future plans include refining metering systems to monitor energy and water usage more effectively. They are also exploring how AI and technology can help further optimize processes and reduce waste.
Their commitment to sustainability not only benefits the planet but also provides employees and guests with a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Fairmont Singapore proves that sustainable business is not only an ethical choice but also a strategic one—driving innovation, engagement, and success. A truly inspiring example for the Dutch community in Singapore and beyond.