St. Kitts Marriott Resort Achieves Green Hospitality Gold Certification

The St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort, Casino and Spa has achieved a significant milestone in sustainable hospitality, earning the Gold-level Certification from Audubon International’s Green Lodging/Green Hospitality Program. This prestigious recognition underscores the resort’s dedication to environmental responsibility while maintaining its commitment to providing luxurious accommodations and world-class service. Located a short distance from Basseterre, the capital city, the 389-room resort serves as a shining example of how economic viability and environmental stewardship can coexist harmoniously within the tourism industry.

The Audubon International certification, renowned for its stringent environmental best practice standards, requires certified properties to demonstrate excellence across a broad spectrum of sustainability criteria. These encompass energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, air quality management, responsible chemical usage, guest engagement in sustainable practices, and active community involvement. The rigorous nature of the certification process, including the mandatory recertification every three years, ensures that certified properties maintain their commitment to environmental sustainability and continuously strive for improvement. The St. Kitts Marriott’s achievement of this Gold-level certification positions it as a leader in sustainable tourism, not just within St. Kitts and Nevis, but across the entire Caribbean region.

The resort’s journey towards environmental sustainability began well before the recent certification, with significant investments in infrastructure and operational practices. As early as 2004, the property demonstrated foresight by commissioning a large-scale seawater desalination plant capable of producing 1.25 million gallons of fresh water per day. This was further complemented by a wastewater recycling system that generates 500,000 gallons of recycled water daily, used primarily for irrigating the resort’s championship golf course. These early initiatives laid the groundwork for a comprehensive approach to resource management that continues to evolve.

The St. Kitts Marriott’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond infrastructure investments to encompass a wide array of operational practices. These include ambitious goals such as the complete elimination of plastic containers by the end of 2025, regular energy audits conducted by independent experts to identify areas for improvement, and a partnership with local farmers to collect kitchen wet waste for use as animal feed. Furthermore, the resort actively engages its employees in sustainability initiatives through regular updates in the internal newsletter, fostering a culture of environmental awareness and responsibility.

Guest-facing initiatives are also central to the resort’s sustainability strategy. Water bottle refill stations are strategically placed in meeting spaces, encouraging guests to reduce their reliance on single-use plastic bottles. Biodegradable cups made from corn and bulk condiment dispensers further minimize packaging waste. In guest rooms, recycling bins are provided, and guests are encouraged to participate in towel and linen reuse programs, incentivized through the Marriott Rewards program. Water-saving fixtures, such as showerheads, toilets, and faucets, are standard throughout the property.

The resort’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its physical footprint. The use of green-certified cleaning products throughout the facility minimizes the impact on the environment and promotes a healthier indoor environment for both guests and staff. Digitally generated receipts (e-folios) and the use of recycled paper further reduce waste. In meeting rooms, automated HVAC systems and individual temperature controls optimize energy efficiency, while energy reclamation systems recover waste heat and contribute to overall energy savings. The transition to full LED lighting across the property significantly reduces energy consumption.

The St. Kitts Marriott’s achievement of the Gold-level certification signifies more than just compliance with environmental standards. It represents a proactive approach to sustainability, driven by a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between environmental health, economic viability, and the long-term success of the tourism industry. In a world increasingly focused on sustainable practices, the resort’s commitment positions it as a leader in the Caribbean and sets a benchmark for other hospitality establishments to emulate.

The resort’s dedication to sustainable practices is not merely a response to growing consumer demand for eco-friendly accommodations; it is a reflection of a core value system that prioritizes environmental stewardship. By showcasing that luxury hospitality and environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand, the St. Kitts Marriott sets a powerful example for the region and beyond. This achievement also aligns with St. Kitts and Nevis’ broader national goals for sustainability and climate resilience, demonstrating how the tourism sector can contribute positively to environmental protection and economic prosperity.

The St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort, Casino and Spa’s Gold-level certification from Audubon International is a testament to its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability. Through a comprehensive range of initiatives, encompassing infrastructure investments, operational practices, and guest engagement, the resort has established itself as a leader in responsible tourism. This accomplishment not only enhances the resort’s reputation and competitive edge but also contributes to the long-term health of the environment and the sustainable development of the region. The St. Kitts Marriott’s success story serves as an inspiration for other hospitality establishments seeking to integrate sustainability into their core operations and contribute to a more environmentally responsible future.