CSR and Sustainability

🏞 Design Workshop completed a multi-year landscape transformation at Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego, finishing enhancements in November 2021. Led by Jeff Zimmermann and Tyson Murray, the initiative focused on aligning landscape strategy with the resort's brand. Key updates include the Grand Social space, Canyon Terrace venue, and expanded patios for 75 rooms. Sustainability was prioritized through water-efficient systems and stormwater management, enhancing guest experiences and reinforcing the resort's premier positioning.

💸 New York, 2026: Procure Impact partners with Highgate to boost social procurement in its hotel portfolio, involving over 6,000 products from mission-driven suppliers. Highgate pledges 10,000 hours of employment annually through social procurement, supporting the Dignity of Work Pledge tracked via AHLA's Responsible Stay platform. Hotels will integrate Procure Impact’s programs into guest experiences by 2026.

🏨 Rockingham Partners and the Green House hotel in Bournemouth are collaborating to enhance the hotel's revenue strategy and performance, reinforcing its eco-friendly brand. The hotel, known for its commitment to sustainability, houses the award-winning Arbor Restaurant, recognized for its seasonal, sustainable menus. This partnership aims to align performance across the business, marking a significant step forward for both parties motivated by purpose and personality.

🌿 Horwood House Hotel in Buckinghamshire joined the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust to support conservation efforts on its 38-acre estate. The partnership builds on environmental initiatives like the 2025 butterfly resort launch and honeybee hives installation. BBOWT, managing over 80 reserves, will advise on rewilding and gardening projects. The hotel, aligned with its 2026 ESG strategy, previously collaborated with Urban Bee-lievers, introducing 20,000 bees, and engaged local schools in a butterfly project.

🏖️ In the 1980s, Ho Kwon Ping and Claire Chiang acquired 222 hectares of a toxic tin mine in Phuket, Thailand, rehabilitating it into Banyan Tree’s first resort. Over 30 years, they expanded to 100 properties in 22 countries. They’ve released 5,861 turtle hatchlings, planted 72,299 trees, and won 700+ spa awards. Their Marine Lab in the Maldives and Electric Reefs tech advance coral growth. Banyan Tree is a leader in regenerative hospitality with unique architectural designs.

🏨 Tokyu Hotels and Resorts joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) this week, becoming the first Japanese hotel chain to enroll all properties with this non-profit organization. This follows their 2019 sustainability policy and 2022 action plan. The Tokyo-based company aims to align with GSTC standards, focusing on human rights and community relations. President Takashi Takei emphasizes their commitment to international standards, while CEO Randy Durband supports their sustainability efforts.

🌳 Sopwell House, a country house hotel and spa, received the EarthCheck Silver Benchmark for its eco-friendly practices. The hotel has a strict 0% landfill policy, repurposing waste like coffee grounds as garden fertilizer. Managed by an ESG team and a Green Team taskforce, they prioritize local and Fairtrade products. Community initiatives include encouraging guests to bring their own spa footwear. Hotel director Rafi Bejerano praised the award, highlighting their commitment to sustainability in St Albans.

📍 Castlebridge Hospitality's Hotel Indigo sites in Coventry and Stratford-upon-Avon earned their first Green Key certification in 2026, meeting 130 sustainability criteria. Managed by the Foundation for Environmental Education, this aligns with UN standards. To commemorate, 100 trees will be planted in Kenya, estimated to absorb 181 tonnes of CO2. This achievement, praised by COO Jane Kendrick of Mission Net Zero, marks a significant step towards reducing carbon footprints and promoting sustainable guest choices.

💸 The Belfry Hotel and Resort, Sutton Coldfield, plans to exceed its 2025 charity fundraising of £120,000 in 2026. 📅 It partners with St Giles Hospice in Lichfield, the Motor Neurone Disease Association, and Hospitality Action. Funds will be raised through events like car washes and marathons. St Giles Hospice provided care to over 2,600 people in 2024-25, mostly at home, relying on partnerships for funding, with less than 25% from government sources.