Whether using renewable energy sources such as seawater air-conditioning and natural hot spring systems, or recycling initiatives, including the use of upcycled materials and construction waste, we have rounded up eight eco-friendly hotels around the world that are doing their bit for the planet.
Choose from the luxury offerings at The Brando on a private island in The Islands of Tahiti to a more rustic setting at AutoCamp Yosemite in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
OPERATING ON RENEWABLE ENERGY
The Brando – The Islands of Tahiti
Residing on its own private island, The Brando is renowned for its sustainable initiatives, relying entirely on renewable energy sources, including solar power and coconut oil. Pioneering seawater air-conditioning is implemented throughout the resort, using the low temperatures of the sea bed to cool the buildings, whilst heating is provided by hot water photovoltaic solar panels that line the island’s airstrip. All other energies come from The Brando’s very own coconut oil power station. Additionally, all guests are provided with chemical-free sun cream and free bicycles to get around the island, and the majority of the food at The Brando’s restaurants is grown on the island in its organic gardens.
Hoshinoya Karuizawa – Nagano prefecture, Japan
Located in the Nagano prefecture stands the serene, eco-friendly mountainside Hoshinoya Karuizawa resort. This gorgeous resort is just a short drive from Tokyo, blending into its surrounding rural landscapes. The resort gets its name from the use of hydroelectric systems created from waters that trickle-down Mount Asama to the Yukawa River. In line with using natural waters for power, the resort is home to natural hot springs that are powered by geothermal energy from Mount Asama. The system in place is called ‘Energy In My Yard’ providing 70% of the resorts energy, including the added luxury of under floor heating. Enjoy the surrounding wanders of this resort guilt free and view the Shiraito Falls, Karuizawa Wild Bird Sanctuary and Tombo-no-yu baths.
INCREASING ENERGY EFFICIENCY INITIATIVES
1 Hotel West Hollywood – West Hollywood, California, USA
Nestled at the base of the Hollywood Hills, West Hollywood welcomed the eco-luxury hotel brand – 1 Hotel West Hollywood – in July. The hotel offers 285 guestrooms and 50 suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views of LA. Each room includes energy efficient air con, LED lighting and the use of raw materials: reclaimed timber and steel, recycled fibre carpeting and stunning stonework. The hotel is also home to an organic garden and beehive, which produce fresh, robust ingredients that are blended into the menu at the resident restaurant, 1 Kitchen.
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa – Dana Point, California, USA
The four-star Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa is a chic property in Dana Point which has everything guests need for a relaxing holiday, from comfortable rooms to a full-service spa. To preserve and protect its beautiful natural surroundings, the resort has incorporated a number of green programmes and eco-friendly initiatives, including energy efficient lighting in all rooms, organic spa treatments – and a partnership with Eminence Organic Skincare to plant a tree for every product sold – and water-saving systems.
AIMING FOR LITTLE TO ZERO WASTE
Kamikatsu – Tokushima Prefecture, Japan
Located in the Tokushima Prefecture in The Setouchi Region, Kamikatsu took to a Zero Waste Policy in 2003 and the town aims to eliminate waste by 2020 without the use of incinerators or landfills. Bar Irori and its Base Camp – a glamping accommodation situated in the valley – offers guests warm hospitality and incredible views of the green, lush valley below. The complex uses solar panels for power, river water for cooling and upcycled wood for a bar ensuring that it follows the targets adopted by the village to be as sustainable as possible.
Fairmont Pittsburgh Hotel – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Located in the heart of Pittsburgh’s business, cultural and dining hub, the 4-star Fairmont Pittsburgh offers stylish accommodation with breathtaking views of PNC Park and the Pittsburgh city skyline. In 2010, the hotel received a Gold LEED certification as part of Three PNC Plaza, a 23-story high-rise which is one of the country’s largest green, mixed-use buildings comprising of offices and residences. During construction, recycled content and green materials were used and 99% of the construction waste was recycled. The hotel uses energy efficient lighting and appliances and installed water-saving systems that save around 930,000 gallons of water annually.
Dunton Destinations – Colorado, USA
Dunton Destinations, a collection of three award-winning luxury properties in the Colorado Rockies, implemented a new sustainability programme this spring, incorporating renewable energy, composting, waste reduction and community outreach. This includes growing produce on-site and sourcing ingredients locally, as well as the launch of a new compositing system. Each month, Dunton staff members also volunteer with local homeless shelter, The Bridge, to serve food to those staying at the shelter.
SUSTAINABLE SPACES
AutoCamp – Yosemite Mariposa County, California, USA
AutoCamp is truly adventure simplified and has been dedicated to providing environmentally-sustainable, small-space designs since its founding in 2013. Opened earlier this year, AutoCamp Yosemite combines the best of both luxury accommodation and authentic outdoor ruggedness, nestled on 35-acres in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The site features a clubhouse with reception, outdoor swimming pool, indoor/outdoor lounge areas and a curated food and drink marketplace, with 15 luxury tents, three cabin suites and 80 deluxe Airstream trailers for visitors to choose from.
