MTA CEO Mr. Josef Formosa Gauci and Hon. Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism Dr. Mario de Marco presenting the Eco-certification. Ing. Christopher Tabone accepting the certificate and plaque on behalf of the Intercontinental Malta.

Towards a greener tourism industry

More hotels reaping the benefits of ECO-certification

Seven hotels have joined the Malta Tourism Authority (MTA)’s Eco-certification scheme during 2009, boosting the share of Eco-certified hotel beds to almost 30% of the available bed stock.

In his opening address to the award ceremony, the Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism Hon. Mario de Marco said that good environmental management is beneficial not only to hotels for the related financial savings, but also because it helps the industry as a whole. Scheme requirements such as waste reduction, resource efficiency and environmental training all contribute towards actively improving the environment and therefore improving the image of the destination.

The Eco-certification scheme also has a promotional value as it aims to attract the growing market of green travellers. A survey conducted by the MTA in April-May 2009 revealed that 68% of total respondents expressed high sensitivity to environmental issues, while 57% of respondents claimed they would be willing to pay an average of 8% more on current accommodation costs in order to stay in a hotel that adopts eco-friendly measures.

In order to help hotels address better the needs of this growing market, two well-attended training courses were held last October called ‘Green Advantage’. The programme was organised by the MTA in collaboration with Tourism South East, UK. Both courses were delivered by Dr. Andrew Clegg, assisted by Ms. Gill Heighington, who were brought over by the MTA specifically to conduct this training.

Dr. Clegg emphasised that sustainable tourism should go beyond the technical aspects of green tourism, such as resource efficiency, waste management and green procurement. Rather, hotels should also focus on incorporating the sustainable element in the packaging of the product, always keeping in mind the guest’s needs and expectations. The case studies he presented were very well received by participants as they highlighted several innovative marketing strategies adopted by hotels overseas.

For more information on the Eco-certification scheme please call the MTA’s Quality Development Unit on 22915272/3 or visit www.visitmalta.com/eco_certification.

Experiences of Eco-certified hotels

“We have been a member in this scheme since day one and we are still very much interested and enthusiastic in implementing this Eco-contribution. On the whole, this scheme taught us not only how we can improve the ambience around us but also how to save money and generate future business with the savings. Staff and guests alike understand that waste is a thing of the past and proper training can eliminate such wastage.” Aldo Azzopardi, Operations Manager, Hotel Santana, Bugibba, 4-star

“For the countryside resort Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz, an environmentally friendly approach to tourism comes naturally. Sustainable tourism is not just about reducing energy and water, and adopting a waste management system, but also offering our visitors the authenticity, culture and heritage that characterise the Maltese islands. We have been concentrating on the marketing of the island’s ecological aspects, such as offering country walks, painting holidays, agro-tourism or experiences at local farms to our guests. The Eco-certification will help us to market the hotel and Gozo better.” Noel Attard, General Manager, Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz, Gozo, 5-star

Eco-certified hotels

• Corinthia Hotel, St. George's Bay
• Corinthia Marina Hotel
• Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa
• Dolmen Resort Hotel
• Grand Hotel Excelsior
• Hilton Malta
• Hotel Santana
• Intercontinental Malta
• Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz
• Paradise Bay Resort Hotel
• Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Golden Sands
• San Antonio Hotel & Spa
• Selmun Palace Hotel
• St. George's Park Hotel
• The Coastline Hotel
• The Riviera Resort & Spa
• The Victoria Hotel
• The Westin Dragonara Resort