As the concept of holistic tourism gains momentum, top players in the hospitality sector are constantly faced with the responsibility of upping their standards of sustainability to cater to discerning new-age travellers.
On that note, we’ve taken a look at a volley of luxe properties that truly walk the talk by satiating one’s wanderlust without harming the environment.
Raffles Udaipur
Nestled on a sprawling 21-acre island, Raffles Udaipur is the ultimate holiday (and destination wedding) address for India’s elite. Or just anyone with a discerning eye for royal-esque opulence. Sustainability practices aren’t restricted to just the premises of the opulent property that reeks of an old-world charm, as the due emphasis is taken to ensure its surroundings, including the iconic Udai Sagar Lake and its surrounding water bodies.
Eco-friendly highlights include recycled sewage water being used for irrigation, the use of battery-operated boats to ferry guests from the mainland to the property to avoid disturbance to flora and fauna in the lake and a strict zero-waste/plastic protocol.
Six Senses Vana, Uttarakhand
From using only fresh, seasonal and indigenous produce to installing 99% LED lighting across the property to ensure maximum energy saving, Six Senses Vana has been a front-runner in terms of driving sustainability in the luxe hospitality sector. With the introduction of ‘Variable Frequency Drives’ on the motors, energy consumption is regulated to be as low impact as possible at the property. What’s more, rainwater is harvested with the water treatment plant ensuring that the recycled water is then used for irrigation across the property. The specially designed faucets ensure minimal wastage of water. The presence of an own bottling plant further facilitates the reduction of the use of single-use plastics by 100,000 plastic bottles per year.
Tranquil Resorts, Wayanad
Known for interesting practices like the linen reuse program (where guests are encouraged to reuse their towels, sheets, and bedding so that housekeeping can cut back on how many times they need to use washing machines and electric dryers), a ban on plastics and disposables within the premises, their fisheries initiative is equally appealing: By partnering with the district Fisheries department, the resort maintains its own fresh water Tilapia fishery located within the plantation on a one-acre pond.
Ananda in the Himalayas, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
From carrying out afforestation activities regularly and carrying out extensive programmes to conserve Himalayan herbs to the usage of electric pumps instead of diesel to reduce emissions, Ananda in the Himalayas promises a stay that ticks all the right boxes in terms of luxury, sustainability and being one with nature. Additionally, an online energy monitoring system controls energy wastage, while retrofit LED lamps are installed to minimise carbon footprint. High ceilings with skylights and window walls make room for ample natural light, resulting in low consumption of electricity.
The Oberoi Group
As pioneers of sustainability and eco-friendly practises, two of the Oberoi Group’s bespoke properties—Wildflower Hall and The Oberoi Cecil, Shimla— reportedly procure 100 percent of their power requirements from local hydroelectric power stations. Furthermore, the properties in question have efficient systems, such as installed rainwater harvesting systems and STPs in place, to facilitate judicious management of water resources.
