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:
The Long Beach case study highlights the hotel's groundbreaking sustainability efforts in Mauritius. As the first in the country to adopt circular construction practices, Long Beach reused 20,000m³ of rubble from a previous resort to minimize landfill waste and material consumption. Its commitment to sustainability spans various domains, including governance, gender equality, energy, water management, waste reduction, biodiversity, and community engagement.
Key initiatives include transitioning to over 80% solar water heating, in-house water treatment and bottling plants, and a 100% plastic-free approach for room amenities. The hotel promotes biodiversity preservation through guided plant trails, hosting 3,400 endemic plants, and supporting bee populations, which yielded 140 kg of honey.
Long Beach also emphasizes community empowerment, with programs like "Adopt a Tree," collaborations with local artisans, and initiatives in climate-smart agriculture to ensure food security amid rising tourism and climate challenges. Partnerships with the University of Mauritius foster sustainable tourism research and marine biodiversity studies.
Guest experiences are aligned with sustainability goals, featuring immersive activities, such as a marine station and interactive educational hubs for children. Cultural awareness initiatives celebrate Mauritius' rich heritage and promote inclusivity with programs like sign language training.
The hotel actively addresses environmental challenges like sand erosion and eutrophication while reducing food waste through portion-awareness campaigns. It collaborates with local waste management entities and innovates in food sustainability, including slow food and cultural movements.
Long Beach’s efforts are further reinforced by its involvement with the UN Network Mauritius Strategy 2030, making it a leading example of how hospitality can drive ecological and societal change. These multifaceted programs reflect its vision of not just reducing its carbon footprint but creating a positive "handprint" by fostering relationships and inspiring collective sustainability action.
The Hospitality Awards celebrate innovation and excellence and highlight the most creative initiatives in a sector that is constantly and rapidly changing hospitality.
