UTM’s educational hotel, Pousada de Mong-Há, aims for sustainability in every aspect of its operations. The Pousada Team wishes not only to reduce the unit’s environmental footprint, but also to educate guests – and the next generation of hotel managers trained there – about the importance of eco-friendly practices
Pousada de Mong-Há is setting new standards for environmentally-responsible hospitality in Macao. It reopened in early 2021 after a significant refurbishment, and took this opportunity to transform its operations, advancing its green pledge by prioritising environmental sustainability.
The renovation, completed in late 2020, expanded the property’s capacity from 20 to 30 rooms, strengthening its hands-on training support for students. With the added capacity came new eco-friendly features: taking centre stage are the green walls that greet guests at the main entrance and the atrium. As well as enhancing the building’s aesthetic appeal, they play a crucial role in reducing carbon dioxide emissions by naturally regulating indoor temperatures, while contributing to purify the surrounding air.
Inside, guests are welcomed by abundant natural sunlight invited through glass ceilings that are extensively used in common areas, tactically reducing the need for artificial light.
Another standout feature is the installation of carbon emission meters in each guest room. These devices directly link electricity consumption to carbon emissions in real time, allowing guests to understand and consciously monitor their environmental impact during their stay. Pousada de Mong-Há was the first in Macao to introduce such technology.
The entire unit has also eliminated plastic drinking bottles, opting instead to install water dispensers throughout he property and encourage guests to bring their own reusable containers, thus reducing plastic waste. Additionally, a rainwater collection system has been implemented, with the harvested water used for irrigating the grounds, conserving valuable water resources.
To engage guests in its sustainability efforts, the Pousada has introduced several innovations. “The Planet After Three Years” postcard, for instance, invites guests to write down their environmental commitments, which will be mailed back to them after three years, prompting self-reflection on the progress towards sustainable living.
Another one-of-a-kind eco-project is a decarbonisation reward scheme. Gifts will be presented to guests who achieve pre-set electricity consumption targets, using the in-room carbon meters to monitor their consumption levels.
Pousada further sets an example to guests in terms of green practices by: providing recycling bins in guest rooms, using energy-saving lighting, encouraging self-prepared amenities to minimise the need for single-use supplies, and reducing water and energy consumption by changing linens and towels on request, as well as hosting twice-monthly “Earth Hour” events that invite guests to switch off lights and electrical appliances temporarily as a constant reminder for energy conservation.
Editor: UTM Public Relations Team
