S Hotels and Resorts celebrates Plastic-Free July

S Hotels and Resorts (SHR) commemorates Plastic-Free July through several innovative holiday experiences at its properties in Thailand and the Maldives.

Honouring its commitment to reduce plastic wastes at its various properties, these activities engage guests of all ages in experiences that expand their knowledge on environmental protection.

SHR CEO Michael Marshall remarked that the company aims to stay at the forefront of environmental stewardship.

To achieve this, Marshall said, “All SHR hotels take concrete actions to protect our planet, including phasing out single-use plastic, embracing electric vehicles for transportation, installing solar panels and on-site water treatment systems, offering water-refilling corners and eco-friendly bathroom amenities, and much more.”

Upcycling and more in Thailand

In Thailand, SHR’s initiatives include its upcycling initiative at Santiburi Koh Samui, where old curtains and cushion cases are repurposed into complimentary bags for guests. This reduces single-use plastic waste, and encourages guests to use reusable and environmentally sustainable alternatives during their stay.

Guests at SAii Phi Phi Island Village can participate in Sunday beach cleanups alongside marine biologists, removing trash from the beach and mangrove forest. Held regularly, these communal events successfully removed nearly 12,000 kilograms of marine and coastal waste in 2023. With environmental advocacy being a priority year-round, guests are also invited to explore local biodiversity through regular guided trails on land and water. 

Meanwhile, SAii Koh Samui Choengmon in Hanuman Bay hosts weekly beach and road cleaning sessions, followed by organic refreshments at the resort for the participants.

Strategic partnerships in the Maldives

Meanwhile, the fully plastic-free CROSSROADS Maldives has partnered with the country’s Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy to jointly maintain the stunning natural landscape where the property hosts eco-tourism classes for guests and local schoolchildren. 

For youngsters who want to take a more active role in conservation, the resort’s popular Junior Marine Biologist programme is a great way to learn. The programme focuses on the impact of plastic pollution on marine life, with Marine Discovery Centre playing host to rotating exhibitions showcasing coral diversity and emphasising the importance of conservation.