World Zero Emissions Day (Zero Emissions Day), observed on September 21, serves as a reminder of the need for more responsible energy use and for choices that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. At a time when the impacts of the climate crisis are becoming increasingly evident in societies, economies, and ecosystems around the world, actions promoting sustainable practices take on even greater significance.
The day also highlights actions that can help reduce the environmental footprint —from changes in how we travel and consume energy to the way businesses design, build, and operate their facilities.
The example of the multi-theme resort
Although individual responsibility is part of the transition toward more sustainable practices, large organizations can play a significant role by improving energy efficiency, managing waste and water, enhancing infrastructure, and setting measurable environmental goals.
Especially in the case of large-scale developments, the size and complexity of their operations make the management of energy, water, waste, and other resources a crucial part of their environmental approach. In Cyprus, City of Dreams Mediterranean is one such example, having incorporated sustainability parameters into both its design and day-to-day operations.
City of Dreams Mediterranean was the first development in Cyprus to achieve BREEAM Excellent certification during the design and construction phases, covering areas such as energy efficiency, sustainable construction, water conservation, and waste reduction. City of Dreams Mediterranean also holds ISO 14001 certification, an internationally recognized standard for Environmental Management Systems, which provides a structured framework for reducing waste, improving energy efficiency, and complying with environmental requirements.
The multi-theme resort is part of Melco Resorts & Entertainment’s broader sustainability strategy, “RISE to go Above & Beyond,” which sets environmental goals for all of the Group’s properties. These include a commitment to transitioning to carbon-neutral and zero-waste resorts by 2030, along with initiatives for sustainable sourcing and reducing water consumption.
Water Recycling, Renewable Energy, Waste Reduction
By 2030, Melco aims to reduce water consumption intensity by 19%, while seeking to increase the capacity for graywater recycling at its facilities. Using 2019 as the baseline year, Melco has set a target to reduce non-hazardous waste generation intensity (metric tons per square meter) by 5% by 2030, with a long-term goal of achieving a 24% reduction.
As a member of the group, City of Dreams Mediterranean seeks to align its sustainability efforts with international goals and evolving environmental priorities.
Energy use is another area where the resort is working to reduce its environmental footprint. City of Dreams Mediterranean has installed 4,200 solar panels, capable of generating up to 1,200 MWh of renewable electricity annually. The installation is part of the Group’s broader effort to increase on-site energy production from renewable sources at its facilities.
These measures demonstrate how environmental considerations are increasingly being integrated into both the long-term planning and day-to-day operations of large-scale developments. Reducing emissions does not depend on a single initiative, but on changes in energy use, resource management, infrastructure, and day-to-day operations. For large organizations in particular, setting measurable goals and implementing them can be a significant part of this transition.
Stefania Pieris, Director of Facilities Management at City of Dreams Mediterranean, stated: “Global Zero Emissions Day serves as an important reminder that sustainability cannot be achieved through a single initiative, but requires consistent and meaningful action over the long term. At City of Dreams Mediterranean, we are constantly exploring ways to use energy, water, and other resources, reduce waste, and minimize the environmental footprint of our operations.
However, real change starts with people and the way we think. It is our responsibility to implement practical and realistic systems that make it easier for people to understand, adopt, and improve sustainable practices. When sound environmental practices become part of our daily lives, small improvements within a large-scale organization can, collectively, bring about significant change.
Sustainability is an ongoing journey. Our goal is to continue identifying realistic opportunities to improve our performance, while fostering a culture in which everyone understands that they have their own role to play.”
