The Setai & The Environment
The Setai & The Environment: Beach Clean Up

Just beyond the walls of The Setai lies the pure white sand and turquoise waters of South Beach. In an effort to preserve this natural beauty which surrounds, The Setai recently hosted a Beach Clean Up day as part of its Adopt-A-Beach program for ECOMB, the Environmental Coalition of Miami & Beaches.

To encourage responsible behavior and awareness in Miami Beach, volunteers combed the beach for garbage, especially non-biodegradable plastics and cigarette butts.

“This is something we plan on doing regularly throughout the year,” said Green Team Leader, Patrick Fernandez. “The Setai is committed to doing its part in taking care of the community and the environment. This is why we have partnered with ECOMB and decided to adopt the section of the beach just in front of the hotel.”

The Adopt-A-Beach program fosters feelings of pride and ownership and gives people the opportunity to actively participate in conserving coastal resources. In addition to its local community efforts, The Setai has also been recognized for being one of only six Leading Hotels of the World to achieve the LECS (Luxury Eco Certification Standard), the world’s only voluntary, global sustainable tourism certification specific to the luxury accommodation sector.

By minimizing energy consumption, supporting the local community, and initiating a three-year plan to install water saving devices throughout the property, The Setai continues to position itself as an industry leader by acknowledging that sometimes it is the small gestures that really matter most.

 

In accordance with our Mission, The Setai recognizes that our work may have a direct or indirect effect on the local, regional and global environment.  Our aim is to become an agent of social and economic development through responsible tourism. We are committed to reducing any harmful effects on the environment and promoting a local community responsability program with the mission of inspiring our guests, employees and community in joining us in our efforts of sustainability.

General – We are committed to obtaining and maintaining full compliance with all relevant environmental regulations, and will regularly update our objectives and targets to ensure continual improvement.

  • Goals are updated at least on an annual basis and are the responsibility of the hotel Green Team
  • Unless specifically stated otherwise, all goals will be set to at least a 5% improvement per year and are based on specific quantifiable data
  • Employees (and guests when appropriate) are kept aware of our green efforts and are encouraged to actively participate in helping the hotel to become more environmentally sustainable
  • The message portrayed to guests about our operational standards shall always be accurate and complete

Energy – We shall minimize energy consumption in order to conserve valuable, non-renewable resources.

  • Switch lights off when possible (and where possible through the use of timer switches or sensors)
  • Use energy-efficient bulbs where possible & aesthetically pleasing, including all back-of-house areas
  • Default room temperatures and controls for when occupied / not occupied
  • Monitor refrigerator & freezer temperature controls after each checkout
  • Sleep timers on computers set to conserve energy
  • Minimize room lighting after turndown service

Waste – We shall take account of the environmental factors involved in production, use and disposal of the product in all purchasing decisions and operational activities.

  • Buy reusable, refillable or recyclable/recycled products when reasonable
  • Utilize only reusable linen, dishware and silverware in the hotel (except “to go”)
  • Eco-friendly inks, papers, cleaning supplies and chemicals
  • Recycling program being implemented for paper, aluminum, plastic, glass, steel (tin) and cardboard 
  • Paper is to be used on both sides and printing avoided when possible, with a 10% reduction usage per year
  • Laundry vendor to utilize biodegradable laundry bags, cleaning solvent & hangers
  • Leftover cooking oil is taken away to be recycled
  • Leftover hotel supplies are utilized in The Abbey staff residences

Water – We shall minimize wasteful use of water.

  • Three-year plan to install water saving devices in showerheads, toilets & faucets
  • Regularly check for leaky taps, pipes and toilets

Travel – We shall reduce the impact of emissions by encouraging sustainable principles to travel.

  • Shop locally when possible
  • Promote public transportation, cycling or walking as the preferred form of transport for employees
  • Publish menus that emphasize seasonal fare that is bought locally

Community - We shall support the local community in order to help eliminate conditions that undermine people's capacity to meet their basic human needs.

  • Support local community program "Take Stock in Children" through mentoring and financial efforts. http://www.takestockinchildren.org/index
  • Help provide a unique opportunity for low-income and at-risk students, many from minority families, to escape the cycle of poverty through education
  • Assist through the Take Stock in Children program to provide students college scholarships, caring volunteer mentors and hope for a better life

Local environment - We shall support local environment in order to help eliminate the progressive physical degradation and destruction of nature and natural pocesses.

  • Support local environmental organization - ECOMB (Environmental Coalition of Miami & the Beaches) through physical and financial efforts
  • In this program we will assist in Miami Beach clean up programs on a regular basis
  • We will participate in the ECOMB candidates Forum and provide financial aid where appropriate

Hygiene, Health and Safety – We shall acknowledge the need for a pleasant and productive work environment, implementing greener practices where possible.

  • No smoking policy
  • Ensure adequate air circulation and quality
  • Green training & “Green Team”

The Setai Mission Statement

It is the mission of The Setai to provide a personalized, Asian-inspired experience that is unique in the Americas.

  • Our passion for hospitality will be evident by delivering our service standards in every interaction
  • Our employees will be recognized for their efforts through competitive compensation and career growth opportunities
  • Our entire team will be committed to the financial success of all stakeholders, and the well-being of our community and our environment

http://www.takestockinchildren.org/index

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