AmCham Slovakia

Hotel recognized for its commitment to sustainable solutions

Štrbské Pleso – The Silver EarthCheck certification confirmed and rewarded the hotel’s determination to follow strictly defined procedures, which include careful management of water, paper, and energy consumption, as well as clear strategies for waste disposal and maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.

“We consider obtaining the EarthCheck Silver Certificate a great success. It’s a reward for the entire team. Every month, representatives from individual departments who are part of the so-called GreenTeam, along with myself, met to gradually implement important and beneficial sustainability measures,” said Kathrin Noll, General Manager of the Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras.

She added that after completing training and implementing practical measures into the hotel’s daily operations, they successfully underwent a two-day audit in June.

“We are fully aware of our responsibility for the social, environmental, and cultural value of the High Tatras. Therefore, we are obliged to protect them and act responsibly,” emphasized Noll. “Since the hotel is located in a national park and on the shore of a lake, we are limited in several ways when it comes to using renewable energy sources. Nevertheless, we do everything possible,” she explained.

The main areas of the hotel’s engagement include energy and water consumption and waste management.

“The hotel uses a press that compresses paper and plastics into a new commodity. The hotel gets paid for it, and thanks to this press, we have also been able to reduce the number of waste collections. As for water, we use tanks to retain rainwater,” said Miriam Lackovičová, Director of Sales and Marketing.

“However, we also focus on people. We make sure to work with local suppliers and strive to support both our employees and the local community,” she explained, noting that the hotel supports young talents from the Košice Conservatory through the Kempinski Concertini project. “We also support dual education — cooperation with schools that allows students to receive training and practical experience at the hotel, and after graduation, they are guaranteed a position with us.”

The small cosmetic products provided in guest rooms are returned to Kempinski’s central office, and the hotel receives payment for their collection.

The Silver Certificate is the second level of recognition granted to organizations that demonstrate a commitment to measuring and monitoring their environmental and sustainability performance. In this phase, tourism-related organizations can progress toward obtaining Gold and Platinum certifications. However, the hotel must first maintain its Silver certification over the next four years before applying for the Gold one.

EarthCheck is a leading consultancy group specializing in sustainability for luxury and tourism organizations. It also addresses urgent global challenges, including critical concerns about climate change. Through its Total Tourism Management platform, EarthCheck collaborates with a variety of clients active in the tourism sector.

Founded in 1897, Kempinski Hotels is Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group. Kempinski’s rich heritage of impeccable personal service and superb hospitality is complemented by the exclusivity and individuality of its properties.

Today, the Kempinski Group operates 76 hotels and residences in 33 countries and has more than 25 prestigious projects under development worldwide. Each five-star property reflects the strength and success of the Kempinski brand while preserving its heritage and embracing the cultural traditions of its location.

The portfolio includes historic landmark properties, award-winning urban lifestyle hotels, outstanding resorts, and prestigious residences. Kempinski is a founding member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands.

www.kempinski.com | www.ghadiscovery.com