Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay Becomes Asia’s First IHG Low Carbon Pioneer Hotel

Setting a New Benchmark for Sustainable Hospitality in Asia

Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay has marked a significant advance in eco-conscious hospitality by becoming the first hotel in Asia to join IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Low Carbon Pioneer programme. This programme identifies hotels that achieve outstanding energy efficiency, operate without on-site fossil fuel combustion, and rely on renewable energy sources, underscoring the growing commitment to sustainability within the hospitality sector.

Innovative Green Design and Certifications

Since opening in 2014, this hotel has incorporated a range of environmentally friendly features that show how comfort and sustainability can go hand in hand. The property boasts a fully electric kitchen and hot water heat pumps that significantly reduce energy consumption. It also uses high-efficiency water fixtures and an intelligent building management system to ensure optimal use of resources without compromising guest experience.

Additional features include solar glazing and advanced lighting controls that make the most of natural daylight and minimize electricity demand. These cutting-edge technologies contribute to lower carbon emissions throughout the building’s operations.

The hotel’s sustainability efforts have been recognized by multiple prestigious certifications. Among these is the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification, widely regarded as a global hallmark for responsible tourism. In addition, it has won the Singapore Hotel Sustainability Award 2025 and obtained the Water Efficient Building Certification from Singapore’s Public Utilities Board (PUB), reflecting ongoing commitment to water conservation.

Support from Local and Industry Partners

Collaborations between businesses, trade bodies, and government agencies in Singapore contribute to meaningful progress in sustainable tourism. The Singapore Hotel Association and the Singapore Tourism Board have introduced the Hotel Sustainability Roadmap, aiming for 60% of hotels to have internationally recognized environmental certifications by 2025 and to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

In this context, IHG’s proactive steps position it as a leader in driving eco-friendly change across the hospitality industry. Not only has Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay qualified as a low carbon pioneer, but IHG’s upcoming Hotel Indigo Changi Airport, scheduled to open in 2028, also targets an ambitious “zero-energy” certification under Singapore’s Green Mark Scheme.

Voices on Sustainability Commitment

Kishin RK, CEO of RB Capital Group—which owns several hotels in Singapore—highlighted the importance of embracing sustainable practices to future-proof hospitality assets. He emphasized that reducing carbon footprints is no longer optional but a business imperative that aligns well with operational excellence and responsible stewardship.

Vivek Bhalla, Managing Director for Southeast Asia & Korea at IHG, praised the milestone achieved by the Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay, underscoring IHG’s dedication to climate action and collaborative efforts with government and industry to inspire broader adoption of green initiatives across Asia.

IHG’s Low Carbon Pioneers Programme: Driving Change and Value

The Low Carbon Pioneers programme brings together hotels that demonstrate low operational carbon emissions, creating a platform to share insights and test new sustainable solutions. This initiative helps owners enhance business resilience by aligning with tightening regulations, accessing green financing, and appealing to guests increasingly favoring eco-friendly stays.

Benefits of Joining the Programme

• Eligibility for green loans and financing schemes
• Stronger compliance with environmental regulations
• Positive brand image among eco-conscious travelers
• Operational cost savings through enhanced energy efficiency
• Opportunities to collaborate on innovation and share best practices

Why Sustainable Hotels Matter for Travelers and Transfers

As travelers become more environmentally aware, their choices extend beyond flights and accommodation to involved services like taxis and transfers. Booking a trip linked with sustainable hotels often encourages travelers to seek equally eco-minded transport options. Platforms like LokaleFahrt.de can complement a sustainable stay by allowing users to choose specific vehicles, view full details—such as make, model and driver ratings—upfront, and avoid the black-box approach typical of other apps.

For instance, when arriving at a low carbon hotel, travelers may opt for hybrid or electric vehicles available via LocalsRide to complete their journey, reinforcing their commitment to reducing the overall carbon footprint of their trip without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

In Summary: A Greener Road Ahead for Hospitality and Travel

Holiday Inn Express Singapore Clarke Quay’s distinction as IHG’s first Low Carbon Pioneer hotel in Asia marks a key step for the region’s sustainable hospitality movement. Its advanced energy-saving technologies, meaningful certifications, and synergy with wider government sustainability roadmaps exemplify how hotels can excel in reducing environmental impact while delivering quality service.

The hospitality industry’s shift toward low carbon operations benefits travelers and supporting services alike, including taxis and transfers, as demand grows for greener travel options. LocalsRide.com seamlessly fits into this evolving landscape by offering transparency and choice in ground transportation, enabling users to align their transfers with their sustainability values.

Experience is the Best Teacher – Why Personalized Choices Matter

While awards, recognition, and reviews provide helpful insights into a hotel’s green credentials and service quality, nothing beats firsthand experience. On LocalsRide, travelers can hire cars with drivers from verified providers, ensuring quality and reliability at competitive prices. The platform’s extensive vehicle options and additional services help users tailor their ride exactly to their needs, avoiding unnecessary costs or surprises.

Thanks to LocalsRide’s transparency and convenience, passengers can enjoy affordable, comfortable, and eco-conscious transfers that match the standards of leading sustainable hotels. Book your Ride on LokaleFahrt.de to enjoy smart travel choices that extend beyond the hotel lobby.

Looking Ahead: Sustainability as an Industry Cornerstone

The rise of programs like IHG’s Low Carbon Pioneer points toward a future where sustainable hotels become the norm rather than the exception. Although the global impact of this development may be incremental at first, such initiatives set a vital example for the tourism and travel sectors, encouraging deeper environmental responsibility and innovation.

At LocalsRide, staying informed about these trends supports our mission to keep pace with a changing world. Start planning your next adventure and secure your worldwide transfer with LocalsRide to experience hassle-free, eco-aware travel every step of the way.