A Global Invitation to Further Sustainability through Collaboration

For Immediate Release, Seattle, WA – May 28, 2024: The CleanTech Alliance and the Colorado CleanTech Industries Association proudly announce the launch of the Hotelier and Hospitality Sustainability Cluster, a unique  initiative that unites industry competitors in a concerted effort to achieve a carbon-negative future and tackle pressing sustainability challenges.

The Hotelier and Hospitality Sustainability Cluster will be guided by an esteemed advisory board chaired by Sandi Lesueur, President and CEO of VIRTU Resort & Residences Ltd.

This Cluster represents a partnership between the CleanTech Alliance and the Colorado CleanTech Industry Association to jointly administer the Hotelier and Hospitality Cluster and connect clean and climate tech solutions to global travel brands. Cluster Projects are led by passionate industry experts who work diligently with their  internal teams to realize a vision of a planet where clean technology, clean energy, and climate justice are available for all. 

Said Mel Clark, CEO of the CleanTech Alliance, “We could not be more thrilled to welcome Sandi Lesueur and her talent and experience as the Advisory Board Chair for this critical economic development and climate justice program. Cluster Board Chairs take on an important role, building trust and collaboration between competitors, providing up-to-the minute expertise, and employing critical thinking and insights that aid market development and help industry achieve its sustainability goals.”


Laura Hickernell, Executive Director of CCIA, adds "Colorado Cleantech is pleased to partner with CleanTech Alliance and VIRTU Resorts to launch the Hospitality Cluster, focusing on the critical issue of decarbonizing the hospitality sector—a key economic driver in Colorado. We encourage the industry to adopt sustainable practices in their operations. By working together, we can ensure a cleaner, more efficient future for our state and set a leading example for others to follow."

This partnership exemplifies commitment to building a greener future and demonstrates the powerful impact of strategic alliances in achieving our shared goals.

"Our work to foster a collaborative environment where the hospitality industry can achieve sustainability milestones that are unattainable individually," said Lesueur. “We encourage the sector to step forward to learn more about sustainability and energy conservation.”

Membership Benefits:

  • Dual membership in the CleanTech Alliance and the Colorado CleanTech Industries Association

  • Recognition for clean energy and sustainability commitments

  • Participation in global projects, educational events, and promotional activities


Strategic Projects:

  • Clean Technology Network: Developing a network of trusted clean technologies.

  • Service Provider Network: Connecting members with leading service providers specializing in sustainability solutions.

Membership and Commitment:

  • The cluster requires a three-year commitment from member companies, with an annual fee of $20,000. Applications will be accepted starting July 1, 2024, and programming will commence upon the enrollment of the tenth member.

"By joining this cluster, companies will be at the vanguard of sustainable innovation, contributing to a greener future for the hospitality industry," added Lesueur.

For more information or to apply for membership,  email mel@cleantechalliance.org.

About CleanTech Alliance

The CleanTech Alliance, with more than 1000 members, has worked diligently to facilitate the generation and growth of cleantech companies and speed clean technology adoption. The Alliance recruits and stewards a diverse membership that represents corporations, startup entrepreneurs, academic and research institutions, local, state, federal and international government entities, non-profit and educational partners, and capital/financial organizations. The Alliance is well versed in cleantech-oriented policy and the advocacy needs of its members, it offers entrepreneurial programs to advance startup success and improve entrepreneurial skill sets, and supports the commercialization of innovative technologies. A key focus of the Alliance’s programming is the development of Innovation Clusters. Clusters economic development brings competitors together to solve joint challenges. The Alliance currently runs the BUILT (Buildings, Utilities, and Infrastructure Living Together) Cluster – focused on decarbonizing the built environment, and the Focus on Fusion Cluster – poised to aid the commercialization of clean, abundant fusion energy for all.

About the Colorado CleanTech Industries Association

Founded in 2008, the Colorado Cleantech Industries Association (CCIA) is dedicated to advancing Colorado's cleantech industries. Through advocacy, public policy leadership, and educational initiatives, Colorado Cleantech drives the expansion of a cleaner, more efficient, and secure energy economy. The organization unites a diverse membership, including corporations, startups, academic institutions, government entities, non-profits, and financial organizations, fostering a collaborative environment that supports innovation and sustainable growth in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain Region.  


Media Contact

Heather Kirk
EVP, Strategic Partnerships & Communication

VIRTU Resort & Residences, Ltd.

416 500 1752

heather.kirk@virturesorts.com

virturesorts.com

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