Milan, one of the most polluted cities in Europe, is making efforts to change that reputation it’s newest step in environmental action. The city will open its first zero-emission hotel, in spring 2010, with the help of Japanese technology and local green energy to cut its carbon footprint.

The new hotel, Hotel Milano Scala, will be located in the heart of Milan, Italy’s financial centre, and will avoid emitting nearly 420 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) a year. Every effort counts in a city with annual CO2 emissions of about 7 million tons. This will hopefully mark the new trend with building development  in the financial and fashion capital.

Says Vittorio Modena, the author of the 12-15 million euro project, told a news conference:  ”We are the first zero-emission hotel in Milan, one of the most polluted areas in Italy and probably in Europe … We will not contribute to pollution.”

Mitsubishi Electric has developed technology that will allow the hotel to be CO2-neutral. This technology does not burn fuel for heating. It combines making hot water with air conditioning, and will be powered exclusively from renewable sources.

The four-star Hotel Milano Scala will be managed by Maurizio Faroldi and will seek environment-friendly suppliers for all its needs, from soap to furniture. It will charge around 400 euros a night and thus will target well-heeled clients and mostly foreigners.

“We want to communicate diversity, commitment to save the environment and we want to be chosen for these values,” Faroldi said.