Applied to:
This award recognizes innovative actions in the field of sustainable development that have contributed to ecological sustainability for the community, local populations, employees, and/or tourist sites as well as natural resources in the hospitality industry. The winning action or program will have demonstrated a commitment to environmental sustainability through innovative initiatives, effective management practices, and measurable impact on reducing the establishment ecological footprint. This award recognizes programs or actions that have made significant contributions towards a more sustainable future.
The project:
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort’s “Become Waste Wise” program, launched in 2022, is a comprehensive initiative addressing global waste issues and aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This program focuses on reducing waste generation, improving diversion rates, and promoting sustainable practices through innovative technology, strategic investments, and partnerships with local enterprises.
Key investments include a food biodigester that converts food waste into grey water for landscaping, an on-site water bottling plant that eliminates the use of plastic bottles, and hydroponic farming to grow organic, GMO-free produce while reducing the carbon footprint from food transportation. These technologies underscore the resort’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The program is driven by in-house training to cultivate a sustainability culture among employees and guests. Metrics are tracked through periodic reporting and departmental meetings, ensuring transparency and continual improvement. The active participation of employees, partners, and patrons has been instrumental in achieving the initiative’s goals.
In 2023, the program delivered remarkable results: a 25% reduction in food waste, a 117% increase in total recyclables, and an off-site composting surge of 163%. The resort achieved a 70% waste diversion rate from landfills, up from just 6% in 2022. These efforts reduced its carbon footprint by 86 tons annually and generated significant savings of AED 1.4 million per year.
The initiative has earned the resort Platinum certification from Green Growth 2050 and recognition with the Zero Plastic Initiative Award from the Sustainability Innovation Awards. Looking ahead, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort is committed to achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2050, reinforcing its dedication to sustainability through continuous improvement in reducing, reusing, and recycling across its operations. This program positions the resort as a benchmark in sustainable hospitality.
The Hospitality Awards celebrate innovation and excellence and highlight the most creative initiatives in a sector that is constantly and rapidly changing hospitality.
