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Datai Langkawi Takes Leadership Position in Ecotourism

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LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA—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 in the world to join the EarthCheck ECO (Terrestrial) Certification Program. EarthCheck ECO is the culmination of a journey that began in 1987 and continues to this day. Using a science-based approach, the program helps travel and tourism organizations increase efficiencies, reduce their environmental footprint, support local communities and maximize guest experience.

“Over 500 million years ago, Mother Earth created what is known as the Jewel of Kedah, called Langkawi,” said QCI Manager of The Datai Langkawi, Remi Giromella. “At The Datai Langkawi, we are committed to protecting this natural heritage and unique biodiversity through our sustainability initiatives, including the commitment of ensuring zero waste is sent to the landfill. 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.”

EarthCheck founder and CEO Stewart Moore said EarthCheck ECO offers tourism operators 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,” Moore said. “EarthCheck’s scientific systems are globally recognized for their integrity, transparency and scientific rigor. Our operational data helps the tourism industry develop performance and opportunity reports outlining energy consumption, carbon foot printing, social initiatives, and business viability.”

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 a self-guided walking tour that allows guests to experience sustainable food production, from farm to table.

Organic Wealth Center

The organic worm farm assists with the decomposition of buffalo manure and food waste to produce bio-fertilizer and the composting station converts 300 to 700kg of food waste daily.

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:

  • Reusable leaf baskets handmade from upcycled plastic strips;
  • 100 percent natural bamboo straws made of wild bamboo from Sarawak;
  • Reusable stainless-steel flasks for guest excursions;
  • Sustainable wooden and bamboo toiletries; and
  • 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.

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