best eco friendly hotels and resorts in the world
Longitude 131 Australias Northern Territory
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. The central region of Australias Northern Territory is a desert. It is a worldfamous desert though because it features Ayers Rock the worlds biggest monolith. Its a harsh and bleak environment that could easily be mistaken for a spot on Mars. To those who visit the ecofriendly resort of Longitude 131 behind Ayers Rock though the desert can only seem like a bed of roses. The resort is built into 15 huge luxury tents that feature every indulgence
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Whitepod Resort the Swiss Alps
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. If you love the idea of experiencing the pristine beauty of the Swiss Alps but worry about the environmental impact the White Pod resort can help you to take all the beauty in with practically no harm done to the environment. Like Longitude 131 the Whitepod resort too uses no conventional construction. Visitors to the White pod resort live in large futuristic looking tents that are built to resemble observatories. The designers have gone so far t
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The Finca Rosa Blanca Inn Costa Rica
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. The Finca Rosa Blanca Inn ecoresort is built right into the cloud forests of Costa Rica. The design of the Finca Rosa Blanca Inn uses some of the most impressive ecofriendly technology in the world. It is the highest ranking member of the Sustainable Tourism Certificate scheme in the world achieving a perfect 100 score the only one in the world to do so. The resort has its own coffee plantation that guests can hike through a spa horseback riding
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EcoCamp Torres del Paine National Park Patagonia Chile
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. The Torres del Paine National Park in Chile has been home to the Kawesqar nomadic tribes for centuries. These tribes have traditionally lived in domelike tents. In keeping with the nomadic traditions of the Patagonia region the EcoCamp resort is constructed entirely out of geodesic tents. Inside though these tents offer all the indulgence that you could want. EcoCamps environmental credentials come from the way the entire resort is built on lowim
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Nimmo Bay Resort Great Bear Rainforest British Columbia
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. British Columbia the Canadian state on the Pacific coast offers some of the grandest and wildest expanses of forest in the world. Located north of Vancouver Nimmo Bay Resort offers visitors a true experience of the wild beauty of Canadas wilderness. The area is not even approachable by road. You need to come in by helicopter or by boat. Once you get there you get to experience the flora and fauna of the region up close. Grizzly bears fishing in t
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Campi Ya Kanzi Mount Kilimanjaro
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. The Campi Ya Kanzi is a private reserve at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. Not only is the entire luxury camp built out of local materials the camps designers didnt cut down trees in establishing the camp either. All food on the camp is cooked with ecofriendly charcoal; water is heated with solar power and so on.
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Bardessono Napa Valley California
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. The Bardessono ecoresort in Napa Valley is platinumcertified by LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design). No trees were cut in the construction of this resort it is built entirely out of salvaged wood. The greenness of this resort is clear to see all over. From its solar power farm to its vertical gardens and its composting program the resort is all about saving the environment.
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Six Senses Hideaway Bangkok
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. Six Senses Hideaway is a spectacular nature resort about 160 km south of Bangkok. Everything that you dine on at this resort comes from the inhouse vegetable garden and orchard. They even grow their own mushrooms. The Six Senses Hideaway resort is more than just environmentally conscious the management is socially aware too. The resort only employs local folk.
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The Shergarh Tented Camp Madhya Pradesh India
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. The Shergarh Tented Camp Kanha places you in an environment that makes it easy for you to believe that youve landed in one of the Arabian Nights tales. The camp is built with great luxury and is yet environmentally responsible.
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The Siwa Oasis Egypt
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. The Siwa Oasis resort in Egypt offers an even more authentic Arabian Nights experience. The Siwa is a desert oasis thats been inhabited for millennia. The quarters that the resort offers couldnt be more environmentally friendly they are set in the ruins of buildings that have been around practically forever. It uses no new construction. The resort uses very little electricity and most of the lighting comes from candles.
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Soneva Fushi
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. Located in the simply stunning island of Maldives this SouthandEast Asian destination has been tailorandmade for nature lovers adventurers and (most of all) romantic couples looking for the perfect honeymoon Soneva Fushi in the North Baa Atoll region is the ultimate island experience with the entire place encapsulated with a cover of green studded with white sandy beaches turquoise blue waters and one of the finest hotel services you will ever se
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Lodge at Sun Ranch Montana
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. Latest on the global green hotel map the Lodge at Sun Ranch in Montana is the ultimate American Dream with two magical handandhewn homesteader cabins sitting right on the foothills of the Rocky mountains The organic interiors green setting the imperious backdrop trips into the mountains and canoeing make it an awesome weekend trip With ecology at heart rather than economy this will teach you how to coandexist with nature
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Shergarh Tented Camp
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. Located in the heart of India and nestled right on the edge of the Kanha Tiger Reserve the trip to the Shergarh Tented Camp is an exhilarating ride into a land of mist mythical aura and of course the haunting image of a tiger stalking from the bushes! Cycling trips through the forest driving into the tiger heartland a cozy stay in the lap of nature and a cuisine full of spices everything welcomes you here The stay as well as the walks through the
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Spice Island Beach Resort
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. Another magnificent setting that is nestled away on an island (Grenada is called The Spice Isle) that was once renowned for its spices the flavor still persists though with beaches blue waters and a resort that takes care of your trip to the best possible extent With plenty to offer for the stay of your life the Spice Island Beach Resort sure tries to bring nature into your own room And they manage
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Siwa Oasis in Adrere Amellal
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. With unmatched sandy white beaches and great snowandfilled mountains in the background the Siwa Oasis Resort allows you for a stay in one of the most breathtaking deserts on the planet
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JeanandMichel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort
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. Located on the island of Vanua Levu on a 17 acre coconut plantation and overlooking the peaceful waters of Savusavu Bay JeanandMichel Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort is definitely a place for romance weddings (honeymoons) and scuba diving fanatics With a resident fullandtime marine biologist to help visitors appreciate the underwater world of Fiji the resort has won the prestigious Australasiaands Leading Green Hoteland World Travel Awards 2008
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Daintree Rainforest Eco Lodge and Spa
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. We have seen the green accommodations in the mountains beaches Tiger Reserves and even in a desert oasis But the Daintree Eco Lodge and Spa in Queensland Australia takes you to a tropical rainforest and ensures that this fragile ecosystem is not disturbed as you enjoy a great stay under this dense canopy With a pampering Spa stunning lodges high on tree tops (completely made out of natural materials) great food and even an option for rainforest w
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Whitepod
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. Located near Aigle in the majesty of the Swiss Alps Whitepod is an exclusive unique and ecological resort nestled in the most magical snowandcovered peaks of the planet Using solar power the modern green sheds have a very unique design consisting of loads of green features that is only permitted using skis or a batteryandpowered skiandmobile Arguably the most ecoandconscious green lodge on the planet Set deep in the most charming part of Switzerl
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Chumbe Island Coral Park
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. Not many know about Chumbe Island Coral Park
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Heritance Kandalama
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. Flanked by two UNESCO world heritage sitesand the 1st Century BC Dambulla rock temple and the 5th Century AD Sigiriya rock fortress Heritance Kandalama is a special Sri Lankan resort surrounded by a lush green tropical rainforest Add to the setting the attractive Kandalama Lake trips into the forest with archaeological and ecological significance responsible management that takes great care of the environment and an Ayurveda Spa that uses naturea
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Shanghai URBN Hotel
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. While China often gets a bad rap for its crimes against the environment its also a place where eco movers and shakers are making great strides Case in point: URBN Hotel the countrys first carbon neutral lodging This boutique hotel is not only chic and sleek its good for the planet Located near the historic French Concession it was developed from a renovated factory warehouse and its interiors were constructed wholly from locally sourced and recyc
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Sj
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. Sustainability is the hotel worlds catchword of the day but Urnatur takes this concept one step further into the realm of selfandsustainability Craving a cup of tea? Staff members will help you forage for local herbs to make it yourself This is just one of numerous examples of how this retreat takes guests back to nature Three hours from Stockholm in the Holaved forest the seasonal Urnatur offers accommodation in just six handcrafted cabins Light
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Broome Eco Beach
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. Selfandsustaining Eco Villas and safariandstyle Eco Tents provide the foundation for this environmentally savvy resort in a dramatic wilderness region in Western Australia Elevated boardwalks made of recycled materials minimize the resorts impact on the environment as they link the accommodations to the infinity pool and an oceanfront restaurant where homegrown organic produce and local seafood are featured An onandsite water recycling plant prov
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Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Plantation and Inn
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. Nestled in the cloud forests of Costa Rica Finca Rosa Blanca is an organic shadeandgrown coffee plantation with its own thirteenandroom inn This 40andacre familyandrun property strives to serve as a model for combining sustainability with topandtier resort luxury using everything from community development to innovative building techniques The resort has earned the countrys highest rating for sustainable tourism
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St Georges Spice Island Beach Resort
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. This eightandacre familyandrun resort has succeeded at the difficult task of combining the expected luxuries of an upscale beach resort with a dedicated commitment to the environment Allandinclusive rates might lead travelers to believe that this is just another sameandsongandsecondandverse Caribbean getaway when in fact the property is quite unique utilizing desalination plants solar heating and recycling and composting programs
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Shergarh Tented Camp at Kanha Tiger Reserve in India
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. Situated on the Kanha Tiger Reserve in central India where approximately 50 adult tigers roam the seasonal Shergarh Tented Camp was created to restore a badly damaged and misused piece of land Returned to its indigenous woodland state and now serving as an endandofandwinter haven for langur monkeys it is a place where travelers can savor the natural environment while relishing the comforts of their own tent (just one of six) in a private wooded g
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Evason Hua Hin
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. How quickly the travel industry adapts to trends And when that trend is ecoandresponsibility everyone wins One of the forerunners of this movement Evason Hua Hin takes a holistic approach to saving the planet From a mushroom hut that creates compost for the organic gardens to those gardens themselves which are cultivated in raised beds using recycled materials as a way of teaching the local community about reuse every aspect of this gorgeous reso
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Tenuta di Spannocchia
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. As a working organic farm Spannocchia provides guests with a unique way to visit the Tuscan countryside Rustic farmhouses are available for weeklong stays and two historic bedandandandbreakfasts welcome overnight guests While classic activities such as hiking and Chianti wine tasting are on offer the farm (which relies on traditional land management practices) also serves as an educational center with a focus on nature conservation and the preser
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Hotel Sezz St Tropez
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. Rarely is jetandset glamour associated with social responsibility but Hotel Sezz St Tropez aims to change that Sure it has a Dom P
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Song Saa Private Island
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. Unlike many Thai islands the Cambodian islands in the Gulf of Thailand are undiscovered and unspoiled
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Coconut Lagoon
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. Coconut Lagoon where water and history are the defining elements is a CGH Earth property The beauty of Coconut Lagoon is that its only accessible by boat making it a wonderful escape from the world The stately resort beautifully captures the Kerala of old Sunset cruises backwater cruises and Ayurvedic spa are some of the activities on offer.
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Banasura Hill Resort Wayanad Kerala
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. Asias largest andEarthand resort Banasura is predominantly constructed from mud known as rammed earth Its 31 rooms are nestled on a 35 acre ecoandfriendly farm surrounded by rich nature Guests can enjoy hiking through the countryside to visit waterfalls caves and a tribal village The resort also has a rejuventating Ayurvedic spa
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Mountain Trail Mukteshwar Uttarakhand
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. As its name suggests Mountain Trail is situated amidst a thick mountainous forest and orchard around an hour east of Nainital Mountain Trail has 10 charming cottage style rooms with attached bathrooms Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities including picnics birdwatching jungle walks and bonfires andand and fresh mountain air Theres also a library childrens play area and stunning sunset point on the ridge just behind the hotel
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Kaama Kethna Ecological Village Agonda Goa
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. This remarkable eco tourism venture around two kilometers from Agonda beach in south Goa was established in 2005 by a German couple The aim is to create a self sufficient place that offers an alternative way of living There are five secluded garden cottages that can be completely opened to the outside so you can bring nature in Alternatively you may prefer to stay in a tree hut The cuisine at the farm restaurant focuses on vegetarian vegan and ra
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Wildernest Nature Resort Goa
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. Wildernest is a wonderfully serene nature resort set on over 450 acres of forest land on the Goa Maharastra and Karnataka state borders Tranquility is in abundance there The resort has 16 ecoandfriendly cottages built in simple rustic style with wood paneling and tiled floors inside Guests can enjoy nature walks bonfires folk dances and village excursions
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Yoga Magic Eco Retreat Anjuna Goa
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. As well as being eco friendly Yoga Magic is one of the best yoga retreats in Goa It has a magical atmosphere tucked away amidst coconut palms and rice paddy fields near Anjuna beach It aims to provide a relaxing experience thats as close to nature as possible Open from mid November to mid April each year
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Annapara Home Stay Wayanad Kerala
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. If you love home cooked food and personalized service all in a lush natural setting Annapara is for you! This delightful homestay has only five rooms and provides an intimate opportunity to get back to nature Theres a tea factory next door and a wilderness trail that weaves through sprawling tea and coffee plantations and a vast stretch of rainforest In the evening stargaze while enjoying a bonfire and music The food is traditional Kerala cuisine
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The Dune Eco Beach Hotel Pondicherry
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. The Dune is a very interesting concept indeed Situated on a sprawling 35 acre property with a beachfront location just north of Pondicherry The Dune has 30 villas and 20 rooms Theyre all unique and themed Its quite amazing Arty types will love it! The Dune is fun funky and is home to the Artists in Residence program as well The property also has a Vedic Spa
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Our Native Village Bangalore
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. Have you ever wondered what life in an Indian village is like? You can get a taste of it at Our Native Village around one hour from Bangalore Our Native Village is a fantastic place for a family holiday with a difference! The resort offers a range of unique activities such as cow milking bullock cart rides kite flying bicycle riding organic farming Comforts arent overlooked though The resorts Soul Spa is the perfect place to rejuvenate
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Six Senses Con Dao
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. The building materials come from sustainable resources the structure maximizes air flow to reduce the need for air conditioning and the staff has a passionate commitment to social responsibility and reducing the carbon footprint
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Hotel Tierra Patagonia
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. Built into the hillside of the far south of South America Tierra Patagonia refuses to overshadow the natural environment Inside youll find lowandenergy lighting wooden walls that help maintain a comfortable temperature and furnishings made by local craftspeople
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The Park Hyderabad
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. The Park Hyderabads stunning exterior maximizes natural light reducing the need for electricity and theres a culture of incentives for green transportation (bicycles electric cars etc)
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Saffire Freycinet
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. The Saffire Freycinet has energyandefficient windows lighting and air conditioning and the kitchens get their food on site and from local vendors
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Hotel Punta Islita
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. Hotel Punta Islitas dedication to protecting the environment has earned it awards from the Costa Rican governments Sustainable Tourism department and the staff regularly engages in reforestation initiatives and wildlife conservation
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Proximity Hotel
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. Proximity Hotel is a LEED Platinum andgreen hoteland boasting more than 70 sustainable practices including a vegetated restaurant rooftop and 100 solar panels to heat 60% of the water for both the hotel and restaurant
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Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa
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. Various parts of the hotel EW built over the water in the Indian Ocean minimizing interference with the natural environment Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa received silver EarthCheck certification
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Morgans Rock Hacienda and Ecolodge
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. Morgans Rocks bungalows are extremely minimal and open to the ocean The layout of the accommodations is designed for guests to become one with nature
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Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas
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. The hotels facade blocks heat and maximizes natural light while the lamps use compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs The furnishings are toxinandfree and the restaurants sushi bar serves sustainable fish
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Lefay Resort and SPA Lago di Garda
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. The various structures of the resort are integrated into the villages hill slopes to reduce energy and heat dispersion Lefay Lago di Garda also collects rainwater and manages waste sustainably
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Lapa Rios Ecolodge
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. Poaching and deforestation are major issues on Costa Ricas Osa Peninsula and Lapa Rios has pledged to protect the 1000 acres within its private reserve It has many sustainable initiatives including heating its water by solar power
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Jetwing Vil Uyana
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. The hotel increases the areas biodiversity since it was built on manmade wetlands previously used for slash and burn agriculture The Jetwing Eternal Earth Programme (JEEP) works to innovate in ecotourism and give back to the community
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JeanandMichel Cousteau Fiji Resort
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. JeanandMichel Cousteau is a worldandrenowned explorer and conservationist so its no surprise the resort named after him is just as sustainable The menus dont include farmed fish the lighting is lowandvoltage and the wood comes from certified local forests
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Inn by the Sea
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. The inns eco initiatives focus on all things local in order to minimize the lasting effects of hotel operations The staff uses nonandtoxic cleaning products all amenities are packaged in recycled materials and heat comes from biofuel and solar energy
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Hotel Topazz
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. Hotel Topazz features tripleandtinted windows LED lamps and ecoandfriendly food at its restaurant across the street
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Hotel Terra Jackson Hole
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. LEED certified Hotel Terra uses energy in part through solar wind and hydro power Much of its structure is made of recycled material and the heating and cooling systems are controlled via an advanced computer system
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Hotel Hangaroa
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. Much of Hotel Hangaroas staff are Rapa Nui native inhabitants of Easter Island who share a deep respect for the earth Various parts of the hotel are made from branches volcanic rock and clay They recycle water and lights are all LED
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Hix Island House
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. Hix Island House runs on batteries charged through solar power It also recycles rainwater was designed to catch cooling winds and returns greywater to the environment
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Hi Hotel
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. Hi Hotel has received Green Globe certification for using recycled paper organic paint ecoandfriendly cleaning products and organic food
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Heritance Ahungalla
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. Heritance Ahungalla is designed to ensure that artificial lighting is never necessary during the day and the staff ensures that the surrounding ocean stays clear from waste.
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Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort
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. Various parts of the hotel EW built over the water in the Indian Ocean minimizing interference with the natural environment Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa received silver EarthCheck certification
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Campi ya Kanzi
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. Campi ya Kenya is an assortment of cottages and tented suites made locally from trees that fell naturally Its solar power system provides 220andvolt electricity for the entire camp
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Chumbe Island Coral Park EcoandBungalows
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. Rainwater is the only source of water on Chumbe Island solar panels provide electricity and all of the ecolodges are made with local materials
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Concordia Eco Resort
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. Concordias ecoandtent concept is akin to living in a luxurious tree house The standard unit has a composting toilet a solarandheated shower and electricity powered by a 12 volt photovoltaic system
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El Nido Resorts
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. El Nidos various resorts work with local communities in order to educate and promote sustainability In 2008 the company launched El Nido Biodiversity Online a database of El Nidoands animals and plant life.
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