Preserving an Icon. Protecting the Future.

For more than a century, The Plaza has been a symbol of timeless luxury at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South. As one of New York City’s most iconic hotels, we recognize our responsibility to help preserve not only our historic landmark, but also the resources that support the future of travel, hospitality, and the city we call home.

Through thoughtful operations, responsible sourcing, and a culture of environmental awareness, we continually evolve our sustainability efforts while upholding the exceptional standards of service that define the guest experience.

Preserving Resources

Conserving Energy and Water Through Thoughtful Design

From behind-the-scenes infrastructure improvements to daily operational practices, we continually invest in solutions that help reduce energy and water consumption throughout our New York City property while maintaining the comfort and elegance our guests expect.

Our initiatives include:

• Energy efficient LED lighting throughout the hotel
• Motion sensors and dimming controls in select public spaces
• Timed exterior lighting systems
• Weather sealing of windows and doors to improve efficiency
• Insulated and sealed air ducts to optimize HVAC performance
• Self-closing doors that help maintain indoor temperatures
• Automated blinds, curtains, and shading solutions that help reduce solar heat gain
• Water conservation measures in public restrooms

Our housekeeping team also plays an important role by managing room environments efficiently, adjusting blinds to support temperature regulation, and ensuring lights, televisions, and other electronics are switched off in unoccupied guestrooms.

Together, these efforts help conserve resources while preserving the comfort, elegance, and attention to detail that have defined the hotel for generations.

Reducing Waste

Giving Materials a Second Life

In a city that welcomes millions of visitors each year, reducing waste matters. Throughout the hotel, we are committed to minimizing unnecessary consumption, increasing recycling efforts, and identifying opportunities to reuse valuable resources whenever possible.

Our waste reduction initiatives include:

• Food waste monitoring through the Orbisk system, helping culinary teams identify opportunities to reduce waste and improve operational efficiency
• Recycling of cooking grease and oils for conversion into alternative fuel and other beneficial uses
• Cardboard recycling through a dedicated baling program
• Elimination of unnecessary single-use plastics
• Fiber-based takeaway packaging and compostable straws available upon request
• Bulk bath amenities in guestrooms, including shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
• Replacement of individually packaged condiments, creamers, and seasonings with bulk alternatives

We have also taken meaningful steps to reduce paper consumption by:

• Delivering guest folios electronically rather than printing them
• Limiting printed promotional materials and unsolicited publications
• Utilizing electronic signage where possible
• Creating scratch pads from recycled paper
• Reusing packing and shipping materials

When supplies and equipment have reached the end of their usefulness within the hotel, we seek opportunities to donate toiletries, electronics, and other items that can continue serving a purpose elsewhere.

Empowering People

Creating a Culture of Environmental Responsibility

Meaningful change happens when people work together. Sustainability is driven by the collective efforts of our colleagues, guests, partners, and the broader New York City community.

The Plaza’s Green Team, comprised of representatives from departments across the hotel, meets quarterly to review progress, identify opportunities, and advance sustainability initiatives throughout the property.

To foster engagement, we:

• Share sustainability updates and educational messaging in employee areas
• Recognize team members who demonstrate environmental leadership
• Organize activities that encourage sustainable practices, including Bike to Work Day
• Provide ongoing employee training and development
• Incorporate sustainability responsibilities into job expectations and performance reviews
• Gather employee feedback through formal channels to encourage continuous improvement

Guests are also invited to participate through in-room information regarding linen reuse and recycling programs, offering simple ways to contribute to our shared sustainability goals during their stay.

In support of our broader environmental commitments, we also prioritize responsible procurement practices, eco-friendly cleaning products, and cruelty-free amenities within our spa and wellness experiences.

Looking Ahead

Guided by an environmental action plan established in 2024 and reviewed annually, The Plaza remains committed to continuously evaluating and enhancing our sustainability efforts.

As a landmark hotel in the heart of New York City, we believe luxury hospitality and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. By preserving resources, reducing waste, and empowering people, we are helping create a more sustainable future while continuing to deliver the exceptional experiences that have defined The Plaza for generations.

Because preserving an icon means protecting what comes next.