Sustainability in Mexican tourism and hotels
Did you know that travelers maintain their eco-friendly habits during their vacations? A report published by Booking.com in 2023 revealed that 74% turn off the air conditioning when leaving their room, 53% reuse the same towel multiple times, and 56% bring their reusable water bottle.
While this trend is essential to adopting good practices for the planet, what is the hospitality industry doing to enhance these efforts and benefit its surroundings?
Learn more about sustainability and the best practices that can be implemented in hotels.
What is Sustainability?
According to Cristina González Quintero, Doctor of Research and Education for Sustainability at UNAM, sustainability was defined in 1987 as:
“The type of development that meets the needs of the present generations without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”
Over time, this definition has included three fundamental dimensions:
- Social: related to the well-being of people, such as health, education, and culture.
- Economic: the efficient use of goods and services with equitable distribution.
- Environmental: the preservation of natural resources and ecosystems.
Therefore, sustainable hospitality must consider resource efficiency, reduce environmental impact on destinations, and support the development of local communities.
Sustainability in hotels
Due to the growing importance of adopting responsible practices at both individual and collective levels to protect our environment, at Velas Resorts we implement multiple sustainable activities across our properties, earning recognitions such as:
VERIFIED Responsible Hospitality
The official verification by Forbes Travel Guide for hotels that meet over 100 sustainability standards, was awarded to Grand Velas properties in Los Cabos and Riviera Nayarit.
EarthCheck
A leading certification for sustainable tourism that validates compliance with strict environmental policies, awarding Gold Level certification to Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Casa Velas, and Velas Vallarta.
Blue Flag
The beaches of Grand Velas resorts in Los Cabos, Riviera Nayarit, and Riviera Maya were recognized with this international distinction for meeting and maintaining strict criteria for water quality, safety, and local ecosystem protection.
Among our eco-friendly practices, we have focused on waste reduction and nature preservation, through initiatives like using refillable glass bottles for Molton Brown personal care products. Additionally, we support local recycling programs, organic waste processing, beach cleanups, and reforestation in the Riviera Maya.
Regarding the efficient use of goods and services, we have energy-generating plants to reduce dependence on non-renewable resources and practice responsible water use through wastewater treatment and reuse.
As a contribution to the destinations where we are present, we participate in activities and donations for community development and programs aimed at protecting children. We also promote sustainable commerce and incorporate honey from local producers in our gastronomic offer and in SE Spa treatments.
At Velas Resorts, we understand the importance of implementing best practices for the planet and society. Learn more about our sustainable commitment at: velasresorts.com/ecological-practices.
