How Cinnamon Hotels Uses Data to Drive Sustainable Impact
- Li Melissa
- Aug 13
- 2 min read
In the global movement toward sustainable transformation, what truly speaks louder than promises is data.
Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, one of Sri Lanka’s leading hospitality brands, has become a role model in sustainable tourism by implementing EarthCheck’s Benchmarking system, using measurable performance data to drive improvements in energy, water, waste, and emissions across its hotel portfolio.
Integrating Sustainability into Daily Operations
Operating 17 hotels and resorts across Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Cinnamon has chosen to embed sustainability into its operational DNA. Through collaboration with EarthCheck, 15 properties were assessed under a structured environmental benchmarking framework focused on:
Energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions
Potable water use and water recycling
Waste generation and landfill diversion
Each hotel’s performance was compared against both regional averages and best-in-class benchmarks, helping Cinnamon identify its strengths, gaps, and opportunities for improvement.
Benchmarking Excellence: The Case of Cinnamon Citadel Kandy
Among all properties assessed, Cinnamon Citadel Kandy emerged as a standout performer. In 2023, the hotel achieved the following compared to regional averages:
70% less energy consumption per guest night
39% lower emissions
93% less potable water use
59% less landfilled waste
These results were made possible by effective energy systems, water reuse strategies, and comprehensive waste segregation and recycling programs.
Cinnamon CEO Hishan Singhawansa noted, “We don’t see sustainability and luxury as being in conflict—they complement and reinforce each other.”
The Power of Benchmarking: From Small Changes to Lasting Impact
EarthCheck’s Benchmarking process is not just a preparation step for certification—it's a long-term management tool.Dr. Steve Newman, Director of Applied Sciences at EarthCheck, emphasized:“Even small, specific improvements can result in meaningful long-term impact if consistently applied.”
Through regular monitoring, data-driven insights, and third-party validation, Cinnamon is creating a credible, transparent, and performance-driven path toward sustainable hospitality.
RCI Perspective: The Same Success Is Within Reach for Taiwan’s Hospitality
The Cinnamon case shows that sustainability is not just about being environmentally responsible—it’s about smarter operations, stronger trust, and lasting brand value.
As the official representative of EarthCheck in Taiwan, RCI Sustainable Design Consultants supports the local hospitality and tourism sector in adopting international sustainability standards. We offer end-to-end consulting services for EarthCheck Benchmarking and certification, helping our clients turn data into action—and action into competitive advantage.
