Dusit Princess turns to organic gardening, motion sensors, solar in new green push

Dusit Princess Hotel Residences Nairobi has unveiled a raft of sustainability measures under its ‘Tree of Life’ programme, signalling a renewed push to align daily hotel operations with global environmental goals.

The initiative, anchored on 31 criteria tied to selected United Nations Global Sustainable Development Goals and industry-specific targets, places the Nairobi property among more than 290 hotels globally adhering to the framework.

The programme is designed around four tiers of achievement, with each level reflecting progress in sustainable practices across the value chain.

At the heart of Dusit Princess Nairobi’s efforts is an organic garden tucked within the property. Here, herbs such as rosemary, basil, parsley, mint and lemongrass are grown and supplied directly to the hotel’s kitchens.

According to the hotel, these ingredients support its international cuisine offering while championing a farm-to-table philosophy that reduces the distance food travels before reaching guests’ plates.

The herbs are said to contain natural antimicrobials that help extend food shelf life, cutting down on waste. This ties neatly into the hotel’s internal ‘No Bin’ policy introduced at the staff cafeteria to curb food wastage by encouraging employees to only serve what they can comfortably finish.

Beyond the kitchen, the garden has reportedly improved soil quality due to increased organic matter, eliminating the need for artificial fertilizers, pesticides or chemicals.

The hotel says this ensures zero contamination in the food grown and minimizes environmental pollution.

Energy efficiency forms another pillar of the ‘Tree of Life’ programme. Public area lights are controlled by motion sensors to prevent unnecessary electricity use.

Solar panels have been installed to power hot water systems, and guest rooms now feature electromagnetic induction cookers for those who prefer to prepare their own meals.

Dusit Princess Nairobi has also phased out plastic water bottles, replacing them with locally sourced glass refillable options. In addition, the hotel has partnered with Nairobi County to help maintain the aesthetic appeal of Mimosa Lane.

Positioning itself as one of Westlands’ leading boutique hotels, Dusit Princess Nairobi says its long-term commitment is to champion sustainable practices that safeguard guests, staff and the environment for generations to come.