Sustainability journey of St Raphael Resort: a beacon in Cyprus hospitality
In the picturesque coastal town of Limassol, Cyprus, St Raphael Resort and Marina stands as a testament to the fusion of luxury and sustainability. Our journey at Elia Go to explore Mediterranean sustainability examples led us to this remarkable resort, where we discovered a compelling story of environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
We had the chance to meet Farah Shammas, the visionary Managing Director of St Raphael Resort and Marina in Limassol, Cyprus. Known for her leadership in sustainable luxury and exceptional hospitality, Farah has transformed the resort into a more sustainable resort. Her commitment to sustainability has earned St Raphael Resort numerous awards, including recognition as Cyprus’ Leading Sustainable Hotel.
A Story of Commitment
St Raphael Resort’s commitment to sustainability is woven into the fabric of its operations. The resort’s leadership, driven by personal conviction and scientific insight, has established a sustainability committee to oversee environmental initiatives. Let’s dive into sustainable achievements.
Environmental Initiatives
St Raphael Resort has taken proactive steps in reducing its environmental footprint. Key initiatives include:
- Solar Panels: The resort has installed solar panels to support auto-consumption, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
- Water Conservation: By utilizing recycled water from sewage, the resort minimizes its water usage, contributing to a more sustainable water management system.
- Reduced plastic use: the resort has implemented the use of reusable plastic bottles made from sugar cane, a creative solution that not only reduces waste but also appeals to environmentally conscious guests. This initiative reflects the resort’s broader strategy to minimize plastic across all operations.
- Reducing chemicals: St Raphael Resort has made a significant commitment to sustainability by eliminating harmful chemicals from its cleaning processes. The resort has transitioned to using eco-friendly and sustainable products for detergents and cleaning materials. This initiative not only reduces the environmental impact of the resort but also ensures a healthier environment for both guests and staff.
Social Responsibility
Beyond environmental sustainability, St Raphael Resort also focuses on social responsibility:
- Eco-Friendly Practices: The resort promotes eco-friendly practices, ensuring that sustainability is integrated into every aspect of its operations.
- Plant a Tree Initiative: This initiative not only beautifies the surroundings but also contributes to carbon sequestration, aligning with the resort’s broader sustainability goals.
The Driving Force Behind Sustainability
What drives St Raphael Resort’s commitment to sustainability? The answer lies in a combination of personal beliefs, scientific insights, and internal initiatives:
- Personal Belief: The leadership’s personal conviction in the importance of sustainability plays a significant role.
- Carbon Footprint Awareness: Understanding the impact of carbon emissions has motivated the resort to take proactive measures.
- Sustainability Committee: An internal sustainability committee provides guidance and support, ensuring that sustainability efforts are informed and effective.
Challenges and Opportunities
While St Raphael Resort has made significant strides in sustainability, challenges remain. One key takeaway is the importance of not waiting for regulations to drive sustainability efforts. By taking proactive steps, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and reap both environmental and financial benefits.
The resort’s commitment to sustainability is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic move to attract environmentally conscious travelers. By continuously assessing and improving its sustainability practices, St Raphael Resort positions itself as a leader in responsible tourism, ensuring a positive impact on both the local environment and the business’s long-term viability.
Elia Go’s pursuit of Mediterranean Sustainability
At Elia Go, we are dedicated to empowering Mediterranean businesses to thrive through sustainable practices. Our journey to discover and highlight sustainability examples across the region led us to St Raphael Resort. We believe that by sharing these stories, we can inspire more businesses to adopt sustainable strategies, contributing to a greener and more resilient Mediterranean economy.
As we continue our mission, we are reminded that sustainability is not just a goal but a journey. It requires continuous innovation, collaboration, and commitment. St Raphael Resort’s story serves as a powerful example of how proactive sustainability efforts can enhance both business operations and community well-being.
