In an era marked by environmental crises, a handful of visionary hotels and travel companies are not just participating in Earth Day; they embody its ethos daily. This growing movement towards sustainable and eco-friendly practices redefines the tourism industry, proving that luxury and sustainability coexist harmoniously.
Hotel Belmar: Pioneers of Eco-Luxury in Monteverde
Nestled in the lush Monteverde cloud forest of Costa Rica, the 26-room carbon-neutral Hotel Belmar exemplifies what it means to commit to the planet. Their journey began nearly four decades ago, long before green became a trend. Today, Hotel Belmar has eradicated the use of plastic bottles and introduced eco-packaging and bulk purchases, drastically cutting down plastic waste. This luxury boutique ecolodge also supports Ecoheroes, a local initiative dedicated to cleaning up Costa Rica’s beaches. This initiative empowers local families to collect and recycle plastic waste, which is then transformed into construction materials.
Ananda in the Himalayas: A Sanctuary of Wellness and Sustainability
Located in a former Maharaja’s palace in Rishikesh, India, Ananda in the Himalayas offers more than a tranquil retreat; it provides a zero waste-water policy. The property uses recycled gardening water and directs food waste to local pig farms. By installing a water bottling plant using reusable glass bottles, Ananda has eliminated 99% of the plastic waste generated by disposable water bottles. Additionally, the wellness resort supports local agriculture and promotes nutritional, plant-based cooking practices to its guests.
Las Catalinas: Restoring Ecosystems in Guanacaste
In the heart of Costa Rica, the beach town of Las Catalinas is on a mission to restore its tropical dry forest ecosystem. A car-free zone, this town has reintroduced native flora and fauna through extensive reforestation efforts. Las Catalinas has also implemented multi-use trails that serve as corridors for wildlife and help maintain the ecosystem’s integrity by preventing erosion. Their commitment extends to sustainable energy usage and a closed-loop food system, minimizing environmental impact while promoting local biodiversity.
Calabash Cove Resort and Spa: Caribbean Sustainability
In Saint Lucia, the Calabash Cove Resort and Spa redefines all-inclusive luxury with a sustainable twist. The resort has eliminated plastic usage and introduced glass water bottles. Reducing waste is not just about focusing on local and sustainable food sources; the resort’s culinary team focuses on local and sustainable food sources, enhancing guests’ dining experience while supporting local farmers and reducing environmental impact.
Bettoja Hotels: Tradition Meets Sustainability in Rome
In the heart of Rome, the family-owned Bettoja Hotels have embraced sustainability without compromising their traditional hospitality. Since removing all plastic bottles in 2019, the hotels have shifted to glass bottles and other natural substitutes like bamboo for disposable items. These actions, combined with local produce and natural fibres, showcase Bettoja’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.
Scenset: Eco-Conscious Travel Experiences in Africa
Scenset, a San Francisco-based luxury travel-tech company, crafts personalized itineraries emphasising sustainability. In Botswana and South Africa, Scenset collaborates with eco-friendly lodges and operators that adhere to strict environmental standards. These partnerships help preserve local ecosystems and promote community development, offering travellers a chance to engage in meaningful conservation work.
The global travel industry is taking significant strides towards sustainability through these exemplary initiatives. These businesses are not just making a statement but setting a benchmark for others to follow, proving that responsible tourism can positively impact the planet and its people. This transformative approach is a testament to the power of commitment and innovation in the face of environmental challenges, inspiring a new generation of travellers to choose eco-conscious alternatives.
Written by: Kanda Limw
