30th Platinum Eco Certification for Minor Hotels Minor Hotels has reached a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainable hospitality. Thirty of its properties received the Green Growth 2050 Platinum certification, which highlights the group's unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship across its operations in 56 countries. As of March 2024, the Bangkok-based group has added 10 more hotels to its list of Platinum-accredited properties. Among the latest additions are the Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka and the Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas, marking the first Platinum certifications for Minor Hotels in Sri Lanka and Africa, respectively. To attain the Green Growth 2050 certification—available in Silver, Gold, and Platinum—properties must pass an extensive evaluation encompassing over 450 sustainability indicators. This rigorous process makes it one of the travel industry"s most comprehensive frameworks for measuring sustainability. Minor Hotels has set Gold or above as a minimum requirement for all its Anantara and Avani hotels, reflecting its deep-rooted commitment to corporate responsibility. A Natural Sanctuary in Sri Lanka Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort has implemented numerous environmental initiatives that underscore its commitment to sustainability. Committed to biodiversity conservation, the resort has converted its nearly 90,000 sqm land area into a chemical-free zone, creating habitats for sensitive species such as dragonflies, frogs, and birds. The resort has also formed valuable wildlife partnerships, including collaborating with Sri Lanka"s Department of Wildlife Conservation to establish the Rekawa Turtle Sanctuary. Through this initiative, the resort has successfully protected more than 11,000 baby turtles and counting. In their reforestation efforts, they have restored over 50% of the surrounding mangroves with native vegetation, enhancing the local ecosystem. Erik Billgren, GM at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle “Achieving Platinum is a testament to our team's relentless efforts in environmental conservation since our inception in 2015,” said Erik Billgren, General Manager at Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle. “Sri Lanka is home to a wealth of natural wonders, and we are proud to implement initiatives that play a part in protecting its native ecosystems and offering meaningful experiences to our guests.” Respecting the landscape in the Seychelles Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through various impactful initiatives. For water conservation, the resort utilises advanced technologies, including rainwater harvesting, and repurposes treated wastewater for irrigation. These measures significantly reduce water consumption and preserve vital resources. Sustainable sourcing is another key focus. The resort offers vegetarian and vegan menus featuring ingredients from on-site gardens. By sourcing locally, they reduce their carbon footprint and support the local economy. Waste management practices at the resort include adopting a "no plastic" policy, extensive recycling, and repurposing kitchen waste for animal feed and compost. The resort engages in community initiatives such as regular beach clean-ups and partners with local schools through the 'LOSPITALITE' program to promote conservation awareness. Gabriele Porru, Hotel Manager of Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas “This recognition reflects our dedication to environmental responsibility,” said Gabriele Porru, Hotel Manager of Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas. “We will continue to innovate and contribute positively to our community and environment while providing a luxurious experience for our guests.” Consistently strong performance in Dubai Avani+ Palm View Dubai Hotel & Suites has also achieved Platinum Certification from Green Growth 2050 for the fourth consecutive year, earning the highest audit score among Minor Hotels globally. It remains the only hotel to achieve Platinum status on its first and every subsequent audit. John Roberts, Group Director of Sustainability & Conservation for Minor Hotels The recent accomplishments are the result of years of hard work across our global portfolio to align with, and even exceed, the strict standards set by Green Growth 2050. Achieving our 30th Platinum Certification is a prime example of how eco-tourism, when approached creatively, can help reduce emissions, climate-proof the food supply, and provide livelihoods for local communities, all while making it easier for travellers to leave a lighter footprint on their next adventure," said John Roberts, Group Director of Sustainability & Conservation for Minor Hotels. Developed in accordance with international standards—including the key principles of the UN Global Compact, UNEP Green Economy Principles, UN Declaration of Human Rights, ILO Labour Standards, and UNWTO Ethics in Tourism—the Green Growth 2050 Platinum certification represents Minor Hotels' commitment to fostering positive impacts on the environment and communities. Additionally, Minor Hotels has pledged to become a net-zero organization by 2050 and has established interim goals to reduce energy and water use as well as carbon dioxide emissions.