Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has launched a slew of group-wide sustainability initiatives in celebration of its 25th anniversary.
Under its Stay for Good Greening Communities programme, the group aims to plant more than 25,000 trees by year-end in participating resorts
Air pollution is a global crisis ? according to the World Health Organization, 92% of the world?s population is exposed to poor air quality, which is linked to seven million deaths annually. Planting trees is an effective way to reduce pollution and helps to offset carbon emissions by storing carbon that otherwise would be released.
By 2019 end, Banyan Tree will have planted over half a million trees since Greening Communities first began in 2007. All the green initiatives are run by the company's non-profit arm, Banyan Tree Global Foundation.
Also, the foundation is going to support 4,000 children at 25 schools around the world by committing more than USD$100,000 towards improving their learning environments, school infrastructure and hygiene.
The group's ongoing Seedlings programme provides mentorship and internships to youth, thereby developing their vocational and life skills. The training also includes an internship within hotel outlets followed by employment at its Seedlings Caf? or restaurants at its properties.
Dr Steve Newman, assistant vice president and group sustainability director, said: ?With World Environment Day 2019 putting a spotlight on fighting air pollution, we are committed to achieving our goal of planting over 25,000 trees to #BeatAirPollution. Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts has always believed that sustainability should be at the heart of a responsible business. In celebration of the Group?s 25th Anniversary, we invite every guest who stays with us to partake in our group-wide sustainability activities and devote a portion of their time and energy towards protecting the planet. As a pioneer with ongoing stewardship in sustainability, Banyan Tree remains dedicated to preserving natural and cultural heritage as we grow to ensure long-term sustainability.?
The hotel is giving 25% savings on room rates and other amenities for travellers who would like to celebrate the community with a sustainable activity as part of the 25th anniversary ?Exceptional Experiences? celebratory offer.
