PLANET POSITIVE PROPERTIES

FROM THE ROYAL RAFFLES IN UDAIPUR TO ZHIWALING HERITAGE IN BHUTAN, HOTELS ARE TAKING ECO-FRIENDLY INITIATIVES SERIOUSLY.

- Neeta Lal

Given the hospitality industry’s staggering consumption of energy, water and other precious resources, its gargantuan carbon footprint has been a source of worry for environmentalists for long. However, more and more hotels, resorts and restaurants are increasingly becoming responsible stakeholders while adopting planetpositive business practices. From incorporating energy-efficient design and technologies to using renewable energy sources, adopting water conservation measures, waste management practices and sustainable sourcing, they are trying to tread lightly on Earth.

Indeed, the ethical imperative of sustainability derives from an acknowledgement of the industry’s responsibility towards whittling down its environmental impact. By prioritising these principles, hotels can not only help protect the planet, but also forge strong relationships with host communities, and spur their socioeconomic growth. All the while, sustainable sourcing strategies, such as using locally sourced and organic foods, can benefit local economies while minimising food miles.

India’s first outpost of the Raffles luxury hotel chain subscribes to an array of ecologically friendly initiatives that minimise the guests’ and operations’ carbon footprint, not least because of its location next to a lake. Due to the fragile ecosystem around the property, extra care is taken to minimise environmental damage to the environment. From organic dining experiences to nature conservation efforts as well as a bar that grows its own hydroponic herbs to craft cocktails, the resort goes the extra mile to be eco-friendly.