LUXURY SUSTAINABILITY
In the wake of the ban on single-use plastics, hotels in Bangkok have stepped up their sustainability practices. One example is The Sukhothai Bangkok led by executive chef Asker Skaarup Bay.
“With regard to reducing plastic in our kitchen, we have purchased Gastronorm stainless steel containers and lids to replace plastic bags and plastic containers to store food produce. All our garbage is separated, from plastic, paper/ carton and metal cans to glass bottles, and they are sold to recycling companies to produce new recycled packaging.
“Food waste is sold to fish and pig farms. However, we are purchasing a compost machine and will compost all our biodegradable packaging and food waste, which will be utilised as fertilisers in all the green areas at The Sukhothai Bangkok. What is left will be sold to others in need of natural fertiliser.
“Another project we started is to reduce and avoid cling film as much as we can, using 100% handmade organic cotton, pure certified beeswax wraps, organic coconut oil and golden tree resin. I would like to highlight the beeswax wraps in particular. They are a good plastic wrap alternative, used to cover salads, fruits, vegetables and much more. The material is adjustable to different shapes to form a tight seal. They’re also reusable so you can wash them like you do your dishes, with lukewarm water and use them for up to two years with proper care. We use Superbee Beeswax Wraps.
“In my personal life, I don’t cook at home except for when I am trying to cook a new recipe. I only have coffee and tea at home. In general, I avoid using plastic bags.”
Meanwhile, the Accor group has committed to the global elimination of single-use plastics in guest experience by 2022. The hotel group has joined the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative, led by the United Nations Environment Programme and the World Tourism Organization, in collaboration with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, to remove all single-use plastic in guest experience from its hotels by the end of 2022. This action is a significant step forward for the global hospitality industry and for the group.
“We are aware of the significant impact we have on our planet and our responsibility to create tangible benefits for our employees, guests, suppliers, partners and host communities,” said Sébastien Bazin, chairman & CEO, Accor. “What guides us is the consciousness and social awareness that drives every person who strives to be a good citizen. It’s about being aware, socially conscious and consistent.”
In addition to phasing out all plastic straws, stirrers and cotton buds, the new commitment includes the removal of individual plastic toiletry amenities and cups, and the replacing all remaining single-use plastic items in guestrooms, meeting areas, restaurants and all leisure activities areas with sustainable alternatives.