Sustainability Report 2023

Our approach to sustainability

DESIGN WITH NATURE,
FOR NATURE

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We have always embraced ecologically-sensitive design and we’re on a continuous journey to do better. From low-impact construction to efficient operations and responsible sourcing, we seek to protect biodiversity, preserve water and keep waste out of our precious ecosystems.

And as we continue to discover destinations off the beaten path, our care for nature has never been more important.

Banyan Tree Ringha

To preserve the culture, heritage, and ecological integrity of Shangri-La County in China, 18 Tibetan farmhouses underwent a careful process of disassembly and relocation. These spacious dwellings housed generations of Tibetans, their livestock, and harvests. Today, they are adorned with dark timbers and vibrant red furnishings, which captures the essence of Tibetan tradition and harmonises beautifully with the natural surroundings.

Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape

Located within the jungles of Ubud, Bali, this sanctuary illustrates Banyan Group’s vision and commitment to creating immersive experiences. The ‘no walls, no doors’ concept dissolves boundaries between our guests and nature. Featuring 16 villas nestled between rice paddies near the Ayung River, the resort’s dining philosophy is defined by an innovative zero-waste, farm-to-table approach. From repurposed Ulin ‘iron’ wood sourced from boat jetties, to handcrafted copper bathtubs and naturally dyed furnishings, the craftsmanship is steeped in sustainability.

Banyan Tree Nanjing Garden Expo

A blend of functional design and ecological restoration has transformed a former limestone quarry into a paradise. With lush gardens and hot spring pools, it merges seamlessly with nature. Natural materials like Tangshan Mountain rocks and interior spring baths blur the line between architecture and the natural world.

Our approach to sustainability

CREATE DESTINATION
STEWARDS

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We model responsible tourism, where both people and nature can thrive. Beyond our own operations, we support our associates and partners to embed sustainability at every decision point, and make it simple for our guests to discover destinations in a more conscious way. Every action has an impact, which makes stewardship our shared responsibility.

Embedding sustainability into our operating framework ensures that everyone across Banyan Group is of the same mind when it comes to responsible tourism.

The standards in our Brand for Good framework outline best practice for our corporate offices and 75 hotels. Everyone – our partners, associates and guests – is invited to embrace their role as destination stewards.

BRAND FOR GOOD

We believe in creating long-term value and making meaningful impact on destination and communities, driving sustainable development through our core value of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People”.

Across the Group, we implement a total of 40 standards of various themes to help us achieve our mission to be a Brand for Good.

STAY FOR GOOD

Guest experience

Natural and cultural heritage, annual celebrations (Earth Hour, Earth Day, World Environment Day, World Tourism Day)

Green Imperative Fund

Hotel matching sustainable financing to support local environments and communities

Generate stewardship

Long-term sustainable destination management

17 standards for the category

DESIGN FOR GOOD

Concept

Sensitive, sustainable, biophilic design

Construction

Local and sustainable materials, low impact and site remediation

Certification

By design to ensure efficient operations

5 standards for the category

OPERATE FOR GOOD

Green operations

Resource efficient, renewables and recycling, responsible purchasing, implementation of 5Rs and menu design

Certification and assurance

Sustainable operations certification (EarthCheck)

9 standards for the category

COLLABORATE FOR GOOD

Empower

Equality in local communities and our associates

Educate

Inclusive vocational training and community development

Engage

Diversity in associates, travellers, industry and society to create positive impact

9 standards for the category

Our approach to sustainability

UPLIFT THE TRUE
HOSTS, OUR
COMMUNITY

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Hospitality is at the heart of who we are. But the true hosts are our local communities, who share their rich heritage, culture and spirit. It is our honour to reciprocate their generosity by investing in programmes that improve livelihoods through education, engagement and employment.

Our school education projects, including our signature Seedlings programme, nurture young, at-risk individuals and provide essential vocational and life skills. We engage associates and guests through volunteering, events and conservation programmes. Finally, we increase local employment opportunities by supporting artisan communities through the Banyan Gallery.

A bigger world

Li Haiyan is a mentee of the Seedlings programme, supported by Angsana Xishuangbanna. Over the last four years, the programme has not only covered her educational expenses, it has also expanded her world view and turned an introverted young girl into a confident and radiant individual.

In 2023, Haiyan graduated from middle school with outstanding grades and secured a place in high school. Her aspiration, ‘I want to see a bigger world’, mirrors our own mission – to empower youth to explore beyond their boundaries.

Culinary Upskilling

José Manuel Montes Morales grew up in a crowded home dreaming of becoming a baker to help his mother and five siblings. Thanks to the Seedlings programme, he received a bachelor’s degree in gastronomy and today works as a chef at Banyan Tree Cabo Marqués’ staff canteen.

The law of attraction

Growing up in a village in Indonesia, Jade Aurora wanted to be a lawyer, but tuition fees were out of reach. Thanks to a Seedlings scholarship, Jade got a law degree and is now well on her way to fulfilling her dream of becoming a prosecutor and serving the public.

Nursing A Dream

Pai grew up in a disadvantaged community in Bangkok. The family struggled financially, putting higher education out of Pai’s reach. Through the Seedlings programme she received a scholarship from Banyan Tree Bangkok to study at the Royal Thai Army Nursing College. Today she is a nurse at Fort Chiraprawat Hospital.

Sustainability Report 2023

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© 2024 Banyan Group

Sustainability Report 2023

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© 2024 Banyan Group