Situated on the island of Langkawi in Malaysia, The Datai Langkawi is a luxurious ecotourism resort nestled in the heart of a 10 million-year-old rainforest.
In an exciting milestone, The Datai Langkawi is the first organisation in the world to join the EarthCheck ECO Certification Program, for terrestrial (land based) tourism projects.
“In keeping with the resort’s cornerstone of respecting culture and nature, it was a natural initiative to include sustainability in every aspect when renovating the 25-year old resort,” said Arnaud Girodon, General Manager, The Datai Langkawi.
“We’re proud to say that many changes have been made in this regard and we continue to do so to protect and enhance the unique biodiversity and beauty in which we are undeniably surrounded by.”
The EarthCheck ECO Certified Program offers tourism operators a transparent and scientific assessment of their environmental and social sustainability endeavours and opportunities comparative to industry best practice.
“The Datai Langkawi operates in one of the most pristine natural environments on the planet, and we are thrilled at the prospect of working closely with them to improve their ecotourism operations,” EarthCheck founder and CEO Mr Stewart Moore said
“EarthCheck’s scientific systems are globally recognised for their integrity, transparency and scientific rigour. Our operational data helps the tourism industry develop performance and opportunity reports outlining energy consumption, carbon foot printing, social initiatives, and business viability.”
The EarthCheck ECO Certified program is aligned to the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s (GSTC) Sustainability Criteria and recognised by both the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (www.gbrmpa.gov.au) and also the Department of Environment and Science in Queensland (parks.des.qld.gov.au) Australia.
“Over 500-million years ago, Mother Earth created what is known as the Jewel of Kedah, called Langkawi. At The Datai Langkawi, we are committed to protecting this natural heritage through our sustainability initiatives, including the commitment of ensuring zero waste is sent to the landfill,” said Remi Giromella, Quality Control and Improvement Manager, as well as head of sustainability at The Datai Langkawi.
“Through this and various other programs, the resort aims to inspire guests and the community alike to take responsibility to preserve the undeniably rich flora and fauna around us.”
Key to The Datai Langkawi’s sustainability vision is the achievement of zero waste management through sustainable initiatives such as:
Permaculture garden
This zero-waste organic food production system encourages guests to learn about permaculture in an outdoor classroom environment and discover how saplings and seeds are saved and stored at the seedling hut. The Gulai House Trail provides guided walking tours that allows guests to experience sustainable food production, from farm to table.
Organic Wealth Centre
The organic worm farm assists with the decomposition of buffalo manure and food waste to produce bio-fertiliser and compost.
Wetland Filtration System
Water from the sewage treatment plant is pumped to the wetlands to be purified by plants. The water then flows into a pond, to be used for irrigation, and finally excess clean water flows out to the stream.
Cultural Heritage
The Datai Langkawi strives to preserve natural resources and protect Malaysia’s cultural heritage by engaging with local artisans and businesses and purchasing low impact items such as:
- Re-usable leaf baskets handmade from upcycled plastic strips
- 100% natural bamboo straws made of wild bamboo from Sarawak
- Re-usable stainless steel flasks for guest excursions
- Sustainable wooden and bamboo toiletries
- Compostable food and beverage takeaway boxes.
The resort has appointed an EarthCheck Coordinator who is responsible for ongoing environmental performance, identification of environmental risks, recording and monitoring of impacts and implementing environmental and social sustainability measures. In addition, they have established a Green Team to assist in the reporting of environmental performance, mitigation of environmental risks and monitoring environmental initiatives and sustainability programs initiatives.
