Beiruting News

As part of their global corporate responsibility strategy, Hilton Hotels in Beirut, part of the leading global hospitality company, contributed withthe Lebanon Reforestation Initiative,funded by USAID, with 100 employees volunteering to each plant a Cedrus Libanitree in Deir El Ahmar. Marking the Wildfire Prevention Week, taking place on the last week of October, Hilton employees received a training workshop on the prevention of wildfires and techniques for planting Cedar trees.

"By engaging our employees in planting 100 cedar seedlings, we aim to make a difference in the Lebanese society by raising awareness on the need of preventing wildfires," said Naif Zureikat, Cluster General Manager of Hilton Hotels in Beirut. "Baptized after the treasured evergreen tree that appears on the country's flag, Lebanon was known for its greenery and beautiful landscapes. As a leading hotel chain operating in Lebanon, we believe that it is our duty to help maintain this heritage and preserve this cherished symbol," Zureikat added.

Hilton views sustainability as a key part of its imperatives. Preserving the environment is a business imperative and a cornerstone of Hilton's corporate responsibility strategy to create shared value for Hilton team members, guests, business partners and communities. In fact, water, energy, food, commodities, waste requirements and other factors significantly impact the economics of the Hilton's business every day around the world.

"We are very enthusiastic about our partnership with Hilton Hotels in Beirut on this green initiative," commented Maya Nehme, Project Director of Lebanon Reforestation Initiative. "Our joint efforts will surely contribute to the expansion of forests in the North Social and Environmental Corridor. Hilton's engagement is a great model for private sector social responsibility. We believe that this partnership will help increase environmental awareness nationally and contribute to increasing Lebanon's green cover".

Hilton's commitment to the environment is embedded across its business model and supported by Light Stay-an award winning global corporate responsibility performance measurement platform developed to provide a one-stop solution for reporting environmental, operational and social impacts. Hilton has been rewarded with several local and international awards thanks to its active contributions in the community with charitable and volunteering acts.