February Week 4: Voco Zeal Exeter science park opens, pioneering the future of sustainable hospitality.
IHG’s first net zero carbon hotel sets a new benchmark for eco-friendly luxury and innovation in the hospitality industry.
Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park
In a landmark achievement for sustainable hospitality, voco Zeal Exeter Science Park has officially opened its doors, marking 洲际酒店集团 first net zero carbon hotel. Situated at the entrance of Exeter Science Park, the hotel sets a new standard for eco-friendly accommodations without compromising on luxury or comfort.
A Commitment to Sustainability
The 142-room, four-star hotel is a testament to innovative design and construction aimed at reducing environmental impact. Constructed with half the embodied carbon of a standard hotel, Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park generates 100% of its electricity through photovoltaic roof and wall panels. This achievement aligns the hotel with the 2050 Paris Agreement requirements and surpasses 2030 sustainability targets. Notably, the building achieved a BREEAM Outstanding rating at the design stage, reflecting excellence in sustainable building practices.
Tim Wheeldon , Managing Director of Zeal Hotels, expressed his pride in reaching this milestone:
"We are thrilled to have reached this milestone on the road towards completing our first net zero carbon hotel. Our journey towards this point dates back more than a decade, when we realised that we needed to take action to address and reduce the hotel sector’s role in climate change."
A Message from the General Manager
The hotel’s General Manager, Barnaby Kean , shared his excitement on LinkedIn, expressing gratitude to the entire team and partners who helped bring this vision to life:
"I am beyond proud as we open the doors to voco Zeal Exeter Science Park! IHG’s first net zero carbon hotel. This achievement is a testament to the dedication, passion, and teamwork of everyone involved. A heartfelt thank you to my incredible team, Zeal Hotels for their vision, IHG for their unwavering support, Valor Hospitality for their expertise, and Red Construction for building our incredible hotel. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see what we achieve going forward."
Innovative Design and Features
Beyond its sustainable infrastructure, the hotel offers a range of amenities designed for the modern traveler. Guests can enjoy the ISCA Restaurant and Bar, which features an open theatre kitchen and a menu showcasing locally sourced produce. The hotel is entirely electric, with heating, cooling, and cooking systems powered by renewable energy. Triple glazing, airtight construction, and fresh air ventilation enhance energy efficiency, enabling the hotel to use a third of the energy of a traditional hotel.
Additionally, the property offers a mini gym, meeting spaces, gardens, and 12 electric vehicle charging points, catering to both business and leisure guests.
Strategic Location
Located adjacent to Junction 29 of the M5 Motorway and less than a mile from Exeter Airport, Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park is ideally positioned for travellers. Its proximity to Exeter Science Park, the South West's hub for STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine) businesses, makes it a convenient choice for professionals and academics alike. The hotel also serves as a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Jurassic Coast, offering guests access to 95 miles of stunning coastline and geological history.
A Model for the Future
Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park exemplifies how luxury and sustainability can coexist, setting a precedent for future developments in the hospitality industry. By integrating cutting-edge technology, renewable energy, and eco-conscious practices, the hotel offers guests a unique opportunity to experience mindful hospitality. As the industry moves towards a more sustainable future, Voco Zeal Exeter Science Park stands as a beacon of innovation and environmental stewardship.