The InterContinental Phuket Resort has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining certification from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). This makes it the first InterContinental property in Thailand and the third IHG Hotels & Resorts establishment in the country to earn this esteemed recognition for sustainability. The certification process was thoroughly audited by Control Union Certifications, a body accredited by the GSTC. The evaluation encompassed four key areas of sustainable tourism: management practices, socioeconomic impacts, cultural impacts, and environmental performance.
The resort has implemented a range of sustainability initiatives, including efforts in water and energy conservation, reducing food waste, sourcing locally, protecting the ocean, and engaging with the Phuket community. A standout feature of their food-waste management is the use of an Oklin Food Waste Composter, which can process about 125 kilograms of food waste daily, reducing waste volume by 80-90% within a day and converting it into fertilizer. This initiative produces approximately 360 kilograms of fertilizer monthly, benefiting local organizations, schools, gardens, and farms. Additionally, AI-based systems are employed to monitor food waste, assisting culinary teams in refining portion sizes and inventory management.
Environmental stewardship extends to Kamala Beach through the Proud Kamala program, which focuses on maintaining about three kilometers of coastline and minimizing marine waste. The resort supports the Ocean For All Foundation’s “License to Clean” project, using a coastal-cleaning catamaran to gather waste from surrounding waters for recycling, reuse, or disposal. Water conservation is prioritized, with around 80% of landscape irrigation needs met through treated wastewater, supplemented by rainwater harvesting to reduce reliance on potable water.
Further underscoring its commitment to sustainability, the resort is LEED Gold certified, incorporating energy-efficient measures like LED lighting, motion sensors, and energy monitoring to achieve approximately 25% energy savings. Local sourcing is another key aspect of the resort’s sustainability strategy, involving collaboration with over 19 farmers and communities in Thailand, including those in Phang Nga. Some farms utilize the fertilizer produced from the resort’s composting efforts, creating a sustainable loop between food production and waste management. In collaboration with Chulalongkorn University and Kasetsart University, the resort’s Sipping Tiger venue crafts cocktails using locally sourced plants and botanicals.
General Manager Bjorn Courage emphasizes that the GSTC certification is an independent affirmation of the resort’s sustainability efforts and provides a structured framework for future enhancements in their environmental and community programs. Located on Kamala Beach, the InterContinental Phuket Resort offers 221 rooms, suites, and villas, along with a variety of guest amenities such as restaurants, bars, wellness facilities, and swimming pools.
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