In a world that is facing mounting environmental pressures, tourism-dependent countries like Sri Lanka are obligated to expect meaningful action and change from sectors that are proven, major consumers of water and energy, including the country’s economically vital hospitality sector.

According to research published in Nature Climate Change, tourism accounts for approximately 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, a fact that underscores the urgent need for industry-wide transformation. In celebration of World Environment Day, Nyne Hotels is reaffirming its commitment to sustainability, responsible tourism, and community impact.

Sustainability at Nyne is not merely a trend; it is a core business strategy. “At Nyne, sustainability is about intention and accountability,” said Nayantara Fonseka, Founder of Nyne Hotels. “We are constantly measuring our impact, improving how we operate, and ensuring that every property reflects our responsibility to the environment and the communities we are part of. World Environment Day is a reminder that hospitality can, and must, be a force for good.”

The company has set ambitious 2030 commitments, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20%, lowering water consumption, minimising waste to landfill, and significantly cutting down on plastic use.

Nyne Hotels’ sustainability framework follows a structured approach: Measure, Improve, Report, and Certify, enabling continuous progress across key environmental and social metrics. Across its properties, Nyne has implemented a wide range of eco-friendly initiatives built on four key pillars – energy and carbon reduction, water management, waste and materials, and people and community.

Delving into the actions behind the promises, Nilka Dabare, CEO of Nyne Hotels, said, “The use of solar panels, solar hot water systems, energy-efficient lighting, and bioclimatic architectural design, all help to reduce our reliance on artificial cooling and lighting. In addition, linen and towel reuse programmes, water-efficient fixtures, and rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation, help us reduce hotel water consumption by as much as 30%.”

Mindful of the threat plastic pollution presents to delicate marine ecosystems, Nyne Hotels has also made a strong push to eliminate single-use plastics, coupling this policy with recycling, composting, as well as food waste reduction through à la carte dining and farm-to-table concepts. Commitment to local sourcing ensures not just that revenue stays within the community, but also reduces carbon emissions linked to transport.

Nyne Hotels’ sustainability program also supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its efforts directly contribute to these global priorities:

SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation: water-efficient fixtures, rainwater harvesting and responsible wastewater management.

SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy: solar power, solar hot water systems and energy-efficient lighting.

SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: fair employment practices, local hiring and support for local suppliers.

SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production: waste segregation, recycling, composting, sustainable procurement and the elimination of single-use plastics.

SDG 13 – Climate Action: measurable greenhouse gas and carbon reduction targets.

SDG 14 – Life Below Water: protection of coastal and marine ecosystems, reef-safe practices and reduced plastic pollution.

SDG 15 – Life on Land: biodiversity protection and native, drought-resistant landscaping.

At flagship property Rock Villa, these efforts are being further reinforced through the pursuit of the internationally recognised Travelife Sustainability Certification. Fully aligned with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) criteria, the certification evaluates an establishment’s environmental, social and economic impacts.

As global travellers become increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint, with Booking.com’s research indicating that around three-quarters of travellers want to travel more sustainably, Nyne Hotels is well positioned at the forefront of this shift, offering experiences that are both meaningful and mindful.