written by Sh’mone Joefield, Green T&T Intern
As eco-conscious travel gains momentum, we’re thrilled to highlight two exceptional hotels in Trinidad & Tobago that are leading the way in sustainable hospitality. These establishments have earned the prestigious Green Key Certification, an internationally recognised eco-label awarded to facilities committed to environmental responsibility. Get ready to discover how you can enjoy a luxurious getaway while minimising your environmental impact!
Hyatt Regency Trinidad: Pioneering Eco-Friendly Luxury in Port of Spain
Located in the heart of Port of Spain, the Hyatt Regency Trinidad is the first hotel in Trinidad to achieve Green Key Certification! They’ve seamlessly integrated sustainability into their luxury offerings with key initiatives like:
- Energy Efficiency: Advanced energy-saving systems minimise energy consumption.
- Waste Reduction: A comprehensive recycling program and replacement of single-use plastics.
- Community Engagement: Donating vegetable and fruit scraps to the Emperor Valley Zoo to support animal nutrition.
- Innovative Food Waste Reduction: Using the Winnow System with AI to measure and reduce food waste by an expected 25%!
- Water Conservation: Installing water filtration systems in meeting spaces, restaurants, and the Regency Club to eliminate bottled water for internal events.
- Herb Garden: Waterfront Garden Retreat* used in the bar and sometimes in the kitchen area.
Image of Hyatt Regency Trinidad Waterfront Garden Retreat
_”The process opens your eyes to the many ways that you can save on utilities and also benefit the environment. It becomes easier to recognize opportunities and how easy it is to make things a little better.”_ – Mr. Patrick Borely, Engineering Manager, Hyatt Regency Trinidad.
Comfort Inn & Suites Tobago: Championing Eco-Friendly Hospitality in Scarborough
In beautiful Scarborough, Tobago, Comfort Inn & Suites stands out as the first large hotel on the island to achieve Green Key Certification. Their commitment to sustainable operations is evident through initiatives like:
- Energy Conservation: Installation of solar panels to harness renewable energy.
Solar powered lights are used in the car park.
2. Electric Mobility: Offering an electric car charging station.
3. Waste Management: Comprehensive recycling programs.
4. Locally focused: Staff are primarily from Tobago, using local suppliers, and the menu reflects local specialities.
4. Energy Efficient Design: Using LED lighting, tankless water heaters and PTAC air conditioning units. PTAC (Packaged Terminal Air conditioners) were used instead of central air to be more energy efficient.
_”It is only when you start to follow Green Key, that you get a true appreciation for how much we waste and how much we can save and recycle. Green Key brings with it personal gratification and not necessarily financial gains. But once you are in it, it changes your perspective and you are motivated to continue with the deliverables as this has a great impact on our environment as a whole”_ – Ms. Maria Yip-John, General Manager, Comfort Inn & Suites Tobago.
Why Green Key Certification Matters
The Green Key label guarantees that these hotels adhere to strict environmental and social responsibility standards, ensuring a high-quality stay that supports sustainability.
Ready to book your eco-friendly getaway?
Let’s make a difference, one sustainable stay at a tim
