SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE: THE WORLD’S MOST SUSTAINABLE HOTELS

Nowadays, where sustainability is no longer a trend but a necessity, the hospitality industry has responded by creating innovative, eco-friendly hotels that offer both luxury and environmental experiences. In honor of Sustainability Day, in this blog post we’ll explore some of the world's most sustainable hotels that are making significant efforts in eco-friendly tourism.

1. SVART HOTEL, NORWAY 

Svart Hotel is an example of sustainable architecture; it is located near a glacier in Northern Norway named Svartisen. The hotel is "energy-positive," meaning that it produces more energy than the consumption rate. Furthermore, it is designed with materials and construction techniques that minimize its footprint on the natural environment and has implemented local methods from Norway. Additionally, Svart Hotel pays strong attention to the commitment of food sustainability by partnering with local producers. Besides this, the hotel is beaver in structure and can give a 360º view of its surroundings and has the possibility to make use of solar energy throughout the year. The whole hotel stands as an example to show how guests can make full use of the Northern Norwegian environment-views which include not only the glacier but also the fjords at minimal impact on the environment.

2. SONEVA FUSHI, MALDIVES

The Maldives are known for turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. Yet, it is one of the countries at the frontline on issues of climate change due to the rising levels of the sea. Soneva Fushi, a luxury resort in the Maldives, has been a pioneer in sustainable luxury. Situated on a private island, this resort combines the beauty of nature with innovative sustainability practices. The resort’s architecture is designed to have minimal environmental impact. It also operates under a “waste-to-wealth” model, where 90% of its waste is recycled or reused. Organic waste is composted, while glass waste is repurposed thanks to their glass recycling studio where artisans create glassware and art from recycled bottles. The resort has also eliminated single-use plastics, maintaining a zero-plastic policy since 2008. Guests are also invited to participate in the resort's conservation programs, reinforcing the message of sustainable living.

3. PROXIMITY HOTEL, USA

Located in Greensboro, North Carolina, the Proximity Hotel is one of the greenest hotels in the United States. It is the first hotel in America to receive LEED Platinum certification, the highest rating given by the U.S. Green Building Council. The hotel’s design maximizes energy efficiency, incorporating solar panels, a regenerative elevator, and a sophisticated water conservation system that reduces waste. Proximity Hotel’s innovative heating and cooling systems reduce energy consumption by over 40% compared to a conventional hotel, and 87% of construction waste was recycled during the building’s development. It utilizes solar panels to heat 60% of the hotel's hot water, and over 87% of its construction debris was recycled. The Proximity Hotel features a “green roof”, which helps reduce heat absorption and control stormwater runoff. Additionally,  the hotel’s restaurant (Print Works Bistro) also prioritizes sourcing local ingredients and using eco-friendly cleaning products, contributing to the farm-to-table movement. 

4. WHITEPOD ECO-LUXURY HOTEL, SWITZERLAND

Set in the Swiss Alps, Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel offers a unique blend of luxury and sustainability. This hotel takes the concept of eco-tourism to the next level with its innovative pod structures, designed to minimize environmental impact. The pods are energy-efficient, built using local and sustainable materials, and heated with wood-fired stoves to reduce electricity consumption. Whitepod also strives to reduce its carbon footprint by using renewable energy and implementing rigorous recycling programs. In addition to its environmentally friendly design, they have implemented several initiatives to preserve the surrounding ecosystem. Guests are encouraged to explore the area using non-motorized transportation, such as hiking, skiing or by foot, promoting both sustainable travel and a deeper connection to nature. The hotel supports local biodiversity projects as well. 

5. SIX SENSES YAO NOI, THAILAND

Six Senses Yao Noi is a luxurious retreat located on the island of Koh Yao Noi in Thailand, offering a mix of eco-luxury and sustainable tourism practices. It is another example of how luxury can coexist with sustainability. The resort is committed to a “Zero waste” philosophy and places great emphasis on conserving energy, water, and reducing waste. Built using locally sourced materials, the resort reduces its environmental impact while supporting the local economy. Six Senses Yao Noi has implemented several green initiatives, including organic farming, waste recycling, and the use of solar panels to generate renewable energy. The resort’s commitment to sustainability extends to its food sourcing, with a focus on organic and locally produced ingredients, supporting a farm-to-table dining experience. The resort also takes part in conservation efforts, particularly in marine life preservation. Six Senses Yao Noi has received awards for their environmental efforts such as the HICAP 2020 Sustainable Hotel Awards in the Positive Community Impact (Property) category for its Clean Water Project.

Conclusion

The hospitality industry is rapidly evolving to meet the demands of eco-conscious travelers with sustainable hotels. By implementing renewable energy, reducing waste, and supporting local communities, these hotels prove that sustainability and luxury can coexist. As travelers, we can make a difference by choosing to stay in places that care for the planet, ensuring that future generations will be able to enjoy the beauty of our world.

Bibliography

Entorno Turístico. (2021). Svart, el hotel más sustentable del mundo abrirá en 2022 en Noruega.

https://www.entornoturistico.com/svart-el-hotel-mas-sustentable-del-mundo/

National Geographic Viajes. (2021). Así será el primer hotel del mundo con balance de energía positivo. https://viajes.nationalgeographic.com.es/lifestyle/asi-sera-primer-hotel-mundo-balance-energia-positivo_16299

Soneva. Soneva boosts sustainable energy generation at its resorts in the Maldives. https://soneva.com/press-release/soneva-boosts-sustainable-energy-generation-at-its-resorts-in-the-maldives/

Energy Digital. (2020). Proximity Hotel: the greenest hotel in America. https://energydigital.com/smart-energy/proximity-hotel-greenest-hotel-america

Proximity Hotel. Sustainable practices. https://www.proximityhotel.com/features/sustainable-practices/

Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel. Our concept. https://whitepod.com/en/concept/

ILHA. (2020). Six Senses Yao Noi awarded HICAP 2020 Sustainable Hotel Awards. https://ilha.org/six-senses-yao-noi-awarded-hicap-2020-sustainable-hotel-awards/