AMResorts Makes Sustainable Tourism Main Priority Heading Into 2014

amresortsIn 2013, AMResorts, which has properties in the Caribbean and Mexico, reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable tourism practices. Most recently, the efforts of the brand management, marketing and sales provider were recognized by the Rainforest Alliance. The leading organization awarded AMResorts with the Sustainable Standard-Setter Award for successfully investing in and implementing sustainable initiatives across its growing portfolio of six luxury resort brands.

This year, AMResorts partnered with the Rainforest Alliance to support World Tourism Day 2013. The “Tourism & Water” themed event brought attention to some of the innovative ways in which Rainforest Alliance Verified hotels are conserving water and protecting local waterways, including the installation of an electrostatic washing system that reduces wash cycle times by up to 70 percent, lowers water consumption by 3.9 million gallons per year, reduces wastewater pollution and prolongs the life of linens by up to 300 percent at Secrets Marquis Los Cabos, and the development of a comprehensive wastewater treatment program at Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa.

“Responsible, sustainable travel is a fundamental element of AMResorts’ business, and it is now more important than ever as we continue to rapidly grow,” said Gonzalo del Peon, president of AMResorts, in a written release. “We will continue to strive to reduce our environmental impact while still providing the highest level of luxury. It is our responsibility.”

Since launching in 2001, responsible travel has been a priority as evidenced by the company’s standard operating procedures and resort programs to guest involvement and education.  Additionally, AMResorts continuously expands the number of wildlife conservation programs and enterprises designed to benefit local communities. Some highlights include:

Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya involves guests and employees in its work with Save the Children and the Lazos Foundation—organizations that advocate for more than 4,000 children and teens from low-income families, in addition to training and educating staff on related issues. Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun’s staff completes weekly beach cleans-ups to protect the local reef, in addition to ongoing programs that promote the efficient use of water and energy.

Dreams Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa has released more than 300,000 baby turtles through its Dreaming of Freedom habitat protection program. Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa cultivates entrepreneurialism among its staff by inviting employees to start their own on-site businesses, including a car wash, barber shop and convenience store.

Additionally, several resorts are part of Amigos de Sian Ka’an, an organization dedicated to the sustainability and conservation of the local communities in the Sian Ka’an biosphere throughout Quintana Roo.

All of AMResorts’ Mexico properties are Rainforest Alliance Verified. More details on the company’s sustainability initiatives are available at Rainforest-Alliance.org.

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