The newly opened InterContinental® Phuket Resort breaks new ground by introducing the first wooden hotel keycards to Phuket as part of its expanding sustainable initiatives to reduce environmental impact on the island. The resort’s sustainability programme encompasses all-round ‘Green Solutions” based on IHG (Intercontinental Hotels Group) Green Engage system designed to reduce hotels’ environmental impact. As the ban of single-use plastics becomes an industry norm, InterContinental® Phuket Resort pushes further to deliver a green alternative with Lvevision Security Technology to protect the safety and security of its discerning guests. With the brand’s debut of InterContinental Life to Phuket, the resort raises the level of hospitality excellence by demonstrating how bespoke luxury experiences can be environmentally sustainable.
“Sustainable hospitality has become an integral part of every hotelier’s operations. For a luxury resort like InterContinental Phuket Resort, our discerning guests expect transformative travel experiences that add meaning to their stay. By pioneering the use of wooden keycards in Phuket, we place a tangible reminder into the hands of our guests that environmental conservation is a daily commitment for everyone,” said Bjorn Courage, General Manager of InterContinental Phuket Resort.
“Our patented product uses North American Hardwood, which are among the most plentiful and well-managed natural resources in the world. Hardwood forests regenerate naturally and do not require planting. The preferred method of harvesting is single-tree selection. This provides a sustainable supply and protects the overall health of the forest including water quality, wildlife habitat and biodiversity. As a result, the volume of hardwood has more than doubled since 1950,” said Mr. Alex Chow, Director of Product Marketing for Lvevision Security Technology Co. Limited.
InterContinental Phuket Resort is committed to significantly reduce its environmental footprint by phasing out plastic use in its daily operations. Guestroom amenities are packed in paper boxes, beverages are served without straws while biodegradable straws are available on request and drinking water are glass bottled within its resident water plant. A tribute to Phuket’s lush tropical landscape, coconut shells replace flower pots, which can be replanted after use. Recycled bottle caps and stainless steel candle holders are donated to the Vachira Phuket Hospital in aid of the Prosthesis Foundation.
InterContinental Phuket Resort has also set roots for an edible farm on hotel grounds. Growing herbs and vegetables commonly used in Thailand, the farm allows the supply of fresh, local ingredients to the resort’s dining outlets. In line with its philosophy, the ‘farm to table’ process aims to increase guest engagement, in hopes of developing a deeper appreciation for sustainable practices.
The resort has been designed to achieve the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification, the highest certification of the globally recognised assessment system for building sustainability. From construction based on green-building principles to strictly controlled consumption of energy, carbon and water to waste management, the InterContinental Phuket Resort is planning to be LEED certified within the first year of its operation.
For more information about InterContinental Phuket Resort’s sustainability programme, please contact Mathurot Chuladul, Senior PR & Marketing Manager at: mathurot.chuladul@ihg.com
