Gleneagles pledges to reach net-zero by 2040

Gleneagles, which owns Gleneagles Hotel in Auchterarder and Gleneagles Townhouse in Edinburgh, has pledged to reach net-zero by 2040.

The hotel group has committed to reducing absolute scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 42% by 2030, as well as reducing scope 3 emissions by 25% within the same period.

In the long term, Gleneagles aims to reduce absolute scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions by 90% by 2040 from a 2024 base year.

It has partnered with the Carbon Trust to quantify its emissions baseline, increase its reliance on renewable energy and invest in food waste management technology.

Gleneagles has engaged with sustainability initiatives from as far back as 2008, having been the first hotel in the UK to be awarded a Gold status in the Green Tourism Business Scheme.

Since 2019, Gleneagles’ golf courses have also held Golf Environmental Organisation accreditation, with a recent project resulting in the installation of a multi-million-pound irrigation system on the PGA Centenary Course.

Conor O’Leary, managing director of Gleneagles and 2023 Hotelier of the Year, said: “As we celebrate our 100th birthday this year, we’re proud of the hospitality and leisure experiences we’ve provided our guests for the past century, and grateful for Scotland’s breathtaking natural landscape which has directly contributed to our success.

“But it’s time to look forward, to amplify our efforts in protecting these precious natural assets for future generations and to play our part in tackling the global climate emergency.”

Mo Mands, director of sustainability at Gleneagles, added: “With two hotels, an 850-acre estate, three golf courses, 11 bars and restaurants and a large workforce, Gleneagles is a big operation and we recognise our responsibility in minimising its impact.

“There are no easy fixes; all hospitality and tourism businesses must address the issue head-on and take urgent action through collaboration, investment and innovation to protect the health of the planet that is vital to their existence.”