…

In the bustling metropolis of Bangkok, complete with towering skyscrapers, lavish residences and literally millions of people, the need for sustainability is great. Hospitality is one of the many sectors that need to make strategic changes to their business models so that we can continue to enjoy everything it has to offer, while at the same time reducing the impact of mass tourism. Sustainable travel is not just a wish but a necessity if we are to reverse some of the damage already done and protect the planet for future generations. By demanding sustainable practices, luxury travelers can encourage the hospitality industry to make these positive changes.

Marriott International understands that with their size and scale they have a “unique opportunity to be a force for global responsibility and good”. Marriott International 2025 Sustainability and Social Impact Goals, Which along with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, are guiding them in the right direction with a range of social, environmental, empowerment and sustainability initiatives that will result in them becoming a force for good in the global hospitality industry.

We recently stayed at two of their properties in Bangkok, and were excited to learn about the positive changes they have already made, along with the commitments and initiatives that will allow future changes to achieve their sustainability and social impact goals.

Athene Hotel, a luxury collection hotel

Guests who choose to stay here Athene Hotel, a luxury collection hotel Opting for sophistication, elegance and timeless charm. This iconic hotel in Bangkok has a rich history dating back to 1876, and has for many years catered to the discerning traveler seeking refined and indulgent luxury. From the moment you enter the grand lobby, you can’t fail to be impressed by the opulence and serenity, and it’s clear that your time at The Athenae promises a wealth of unforgettable memories and unique experiences.

As you would imagine and expect from a Marriott International hotel, the ‘low hanging fruits’ of sustainable tourism are ‘picked’ here at The Athene. There are no plastic water bottles or plastic straws, and bathroom amenities are all in refillable dispensers. Although this triad of implementation may seem simple, it is unfortunately still far from the norm in the hospitality industry and this has to change. Market leaders like The Athenaeum continue to lead from the front which will go some way to encouraging others to do the same. Other exciting and planet-friendly initiatives include the installation of LED lighting throughout the property and a new AC system that has reduced power consumption by 8%. Far from being a simple infrastructure upgrade, another saw the installation of an innovative waste water filtration system that resulted in 70% of the waste water produced being reused in gardens and for flushing toilets.

They are currently working hard to reduce food waste by 50%, and 95% of their food products are responsibly sourced in line with the Marriott International 2025 Sustainability and Social Impact Goals. As the first hotel in the world to achieve ISO 20121 you can be sure that The Athene is going above and beyond in their efforts to become a sustainable hotel. This global benchmark is an event sustainability management system designed to help event industry organizations reduce their footprint and become more sustainable. In this ongoing effort, 100% of the rice served at Athenee is sourced from an organic farm a few hours outside of Bangkok. This is not only environmentally responsible by reducing ‘food miles’, but also socially responsible as organic rice is purchased directly from the farmer. This ensures that he gets a fair price by eliminating the need to sell to a wholesale distributor which would be the norm. Plant-based, vegan and vegetarian food options are available at each of The Athenian’s restaurants. In addition to being more sustainable, these exciting and nutritious menu items also reduce environmental impact and provide a healthy culinary option for all hotel guests.

Madi Padi Bangkok, Autograph Collection

Check in at Madi Padi Bangkok, The Autograph Collection Which is located in the heart of Bangkok’s vibrant Thong Lor district and offers a brand new and unique blend of contemporary luxury, traditional Thai hospitality and individualistic style. This boutique luxury hotel welcomes guests with the art of storytelling and personalized service, where every detail is crafted to perfection, ensuring your bespoke experience will be like no other. Quite simply, Madi Padi promises an unforgettable stay that captures the essence of modern luxury in the heart of Bangkok.

If you choose to stay Madi Padi Bangkok, The Autograph Collection You certainly won’t find plastic water bottles or plastic straws, you’ll find water in glass bottles that can be reused and plastic straws that have been replaced with straws made from plant fibers. The team has also worked hard to reduce the reliance on single-use plastic in bathrooms with refillable dispensers for shower gel, shampoo and conditioner, among other initiatives that were good to see. First, they are using toothpaste tablets stored in glass jars, and other bathroom amenities stored in biodegradable plastic, branded on one side and clear on the opposite. This allows guests to see exactly what’s inside, without having to open the packet, which in turn reduces waste. All these changes are helping Madi Piedi reach the goals set out in Marriott International’s 2025 Sustainability and Social Impact Goals.

EKKALUCK BANGKOK

The F&B team at Madi Piedi is also leading the way with planet friendly initiatives, ensuring that group sustainability goals are met. The passion of the F&B Manager and Executive Chef was evident as they explained some of the changes they had already made and others that were ‘in progress’. With a signature restaurant EKKALUCK Playing part of the social hub at Madi Paidi, this is where you will see these initiatives being implemented. Food waste is constantly being reduced, as is food in the room with items such as alcohol, jams and coffee beans all sourced through partnerships with local growers and producers. The removal of single-use plastic also includes all food packaging for take-away items, which are now eco-friendly products produced in Thailand.

This is just the beginning; Both Athenee and Maadi Pieddy are on a journey to become more sustainable and reduce their impact, as should be the standard in all hotels and resorts in this day and age. As we move into 2025 and beyond, we will see new ideas and initiatives come into play, which we as guests should not only encourage but demand. How can we do this? We can do that by only choosing to stay at hotels and resorts that take their environmental responsibilities seriously…