Enchanting Hotels Costa Rica is thrilled to announce that Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin has achieved the highest level of the Costa Rica Certificate for Sustainable Tourism (CST). This esteemed recognition underscores our dedication to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
Costa Rica is renowned worldwide as a leading sustainable tourism destination, recognized for its commitment to environmental protection and conservation. The country’s diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to pristine beaches, are home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife and plant species. Costa Rica’s dedication to preserving these natural wonders is evident in its extensive network of national parks and protected areas, covering nearly a quarter of the country’s land.
Sustainable tourism is a central pillar of Costa Rica’s identity, and the government and tourism industry work closely together to promote responsible travel. Initiatives such as the Costa Rica Certificate for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program encourage businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices and contribute positively to local communities.
As a result, visitors to Costa Rica can enjoy a rich, immersive experience while supporting conservation efforts and sustainable development. The country’s focus on sustainable tourism has not only helped preserve its natural beauty but has also positioned Costa Rica as a model for other destinations seeking to balance tourism with environmental and social responsibility.
What Is the Costa Rica Certificate for Sustainable Tourism?
The Costa Rica Certificate for Sustainable Tourism (CST) is a program developed by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) in collaboration with various other organizations. The program aims to promote responsible tourism practices by encouraging hotels and tourism businesses to integrate sustainability into their operations. The certificate is awarded to businesses that demonstrate excellence in areas such as natural resource management, cultural heritage preservation, and social and economic contributions to the local community.
The CST consists of two levels, basic and elite, the latter being the highest level of certification. While the Basic Level is obtained by full compliance with mandatory indicators, the Elite Level is compliance with 30% of the Improvement and Continuity indicators and 70% External Impact.
Each level signifies a greater degree of sustainability and a stronger commitment to protecting Costa Rica’s natural and cultural resources.
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin’s Achievement
At Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin, we are proud to have achieved the highest level of the CST program, earning us the coveted elite certification. This achievement is a testament to our dedication to sustainable tourism practices and our efforts to minimize our environmental impact while maximizing our positive influence on the local community.
Our journey towards achieving the highest level of the CST has been guided by our core values and a deep respect for the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Costa Rica. We are continuously working to improve our sustainability practices and strive to set an example for others in the industry.
Sustainable Practices at Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
As part of our commitment to sustainability, we have implemented various eco-friendly initiatives and practices across our property. Here are some of the key areas where we have made significant strides:
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Energy Efficiency
Renewable Energy: We use solar panels to generate a significant portion of the hotel’s electricity needs, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.
LED Lighting: Our facilities are equipped with energy-efficient LED lighting to minimize power consumption.
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Water Conservation
Rainwater Harvesting: We collect and reuse rainwater for irrigation and other non-potable water needs, reducing our reliance on freshwater sources.
Low-Flow Fixtures: We have installed low-flow faucets and showerheads in guest rooms and common areas to conserve water.
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Waste Management
Recycling and Composting: We have established comprehensive recycling and composting programs to minimize waste and promote resource recovery.
Plastic Reduction: We actively work to reduce single-use plastics on our property by offering reusable alternatives and encouraging guests to bring their reusable items.
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Supporting Local Communities
Local Sourcing: We prioritize sourcing products and ingredients locally, supporting local farmers and artisans, and reducing our carbon footprint.
Community Engagement: We collaborate with local organizations to support community projects and initiatives that benefit the region.
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Conservation and Biodiversity
Reforestation: We actively participate in reforestation efforts on our property and in the surrounding area to restore natural habitats and promote biodiversity.
Sustainable Tours: Our eco-friendly tours and activities are designed to educate guests about the local ecosystem and encourage respect for the environment.
Looking Forward
Achieving the highest level of the CST is not the end of our journey towards sustainability—it is only the beginning. We are committed to continuously improving our practices and finding new ways to minimize our impact on the environment and contribute to the local community.
We invite you to visit Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin and Enchanting Hotels to experience our sustainable practices firsthand. Together, we can make a difference and help protect the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Costa Rica for generations to come.
