137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts Inspires With New Sustainable Initiatives
The management 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts hotel group has set out to reduce the impact of their properties on the environment. The brand has eliminated single-use plastics and seeks to reduce its environmental footprint. “This has to start with education. If we can change the mindset of a few people so they adopt more sustainable practices, then all of us will benefit,” said COO Chris Stafford.
Since opening in 2011, 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai has won acclaim for its initiatives to reduce the waste. Organic waste is either composted or turned into biochar, which is mixed into the compost that is used for the resort’s grounds and in the vegetable garden.
Reusable woven bags are used instead of plastic garbage bags for waste collection. Suppliers are encouraged to use reusable bags.
“We are very pleased with the results, but there is still a lot to do. Our next objective is to eliminate plastic shampoo, conditioner and lotion containers,” said Anne Arrowsmith, GM of 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai.
In Bangkok, 137 Pillars Suites & Residences conserves electricity with LED lights used throughout the property, while an advanced Heat Pump System designed to save energy keeps the hotel cool. Keycards control the power when no one is in the room. Water is conserved through a 2-step toilet flushing system, the high-tech sprinkler system in the gardens and an innovative pool treatment system.
“As a luxury hotel, our clients want to know we are doing as much as we can to ensure their stay is as sustainable as can be and our goal is to not only meet those expectations but to surpass them,” said Bjorn Richardson, GM, 137 Pillars Suites & Residences.
The hotels have eliminated plastic straws and stirrers, introduced paper shopping bags and biodegradable takeaway containers. Plastic bottles have been replaced with glass bottles. Shower caps, shaving razors, Q-tips and toothbrushes made from cornstarch, and natural toothpaste have been introduced.
W: 137pillarshotels.com