New carbon-positive hotel in Denver sets a new standard for sustainability скачать в хорошем качестве

New carbon-positive hotel in Denver sets a new standard for sustainability

The Populus hotel in downtown Denver, designed by Studio Gang, claims to be the United States’ first “carbon-positive” hotel, meaning it sequesters more carbon than it emits. Sustainability is central to the hotel's 265-room design, using materials like mycelium-based Reishi leather, recycled wood, and low-carbon concrete. The exterior features glass-fiber-reinforced panels inspired by aspen bark to help regulate temperatures, and the hotel encourages public transportation by not building a parking garage. It operates with measures like biodigesters for food waste and durable, recyclable textiles. Although it relies on carbon offsets and tree-planting efforts, many experts question the long-term effectiveness of such initiatives. Legal scrutiny over greenwashing is increasing, especially in Europe. Developers like Jon Buerge, who sits on Denver’s sustainability council, emphasize that real environmental progress requires both corporate action and government policy. Despite criticisms, advocates believe sustainable hotels can influence guests’ environmental awareness, showing that the private sector can play a key role in driving change.