Dusit International amplifies sustainability efforts with initiatives at New Kyoto Hotels – TravelDailyNews Asia
Dusit International introduces unique sustainability programs at its first hotels in Japan, aligning with ESG goals and partnering with local sustainable agriculture ventures.
SINGAPORE – Dusit International is embracing its promise to have a positive impact wherever it sets foot by launching two unique sustainability initiatives at its first hotels in Japan – the lifestyle-focused ASAI Kyoto Shijo, which began operations in June, and the Dusit Thani Kyoto, which will make its grand debut on 1 September 2023 in a prime location near Kyoto Station in the heart of the city.
In line with Dusit’s group-wide sustainability program, Tree of Life, which has 31 criteria aligned with selected United Nations’ Global Sustainable Development Goals, as well as industry-specific targets comprising Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) elements, Dusit is committed to ensuring all its properties operate as sustainably as possible. This includes supporting destination-specific initiatives that help to bring value far beyond the walls of its hotels.
In Kyoto, Dusit has partnered with TeaRoom Inc., a sustainability-focused tea manufacturer, to set up the Dusit Tea Garden in Wazuka, a town on the southern edge of Kyoto Prefecture, famous for its green tea. Set over 2,500 ㎡, the garden will be overseen by Dusit’s team in Japan and produce organic tea for use at ASAI Kyoto Shijo and Dusit Thani Kyoto. Reflecting the hotels’ sustainable operations and efforts towards circularity, food waste from each property will be composted and used as fertilizer at the tea garden. Dusit plans to export organic tea to its international properties in the future.
Further setting its green roots in Japan, Dusit has also teamed up with Ohara Farmy, which supports the development of organic farms and sustainable land use, to create Dusit Farm. Located in Oharanomuracho, Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, just 20 minutes from the heart of the city, this expansive domain is poised to enrich the culinary offerings at Dusit’s hotels in Japan with an array of vegetables vital for creating Thai cuisine, including pak choi (coriander). This will help Dusit to limit the amount of imported produce needed while ensuring tastes remain authentic at its Thai-inspired restaurants – including Soi Gaeng at ASAI Kyoto Shijo and Ayatana at Dusit Thani Kyoto.
Officially inaugurated on June 18, the Dusit Farm is also intended to serve as a venue for memorable and meaningful guest activities, including hands-on vegetable harvesting experiences.
“We are delighted to collaborate with TeaRoom and OHARA FARMY as part of our unwavering commitment to sustainability,” said Mr. Makoto Yamashita, Cluster GM of Dusit Thani Kyoto and ASAI Kyoto Shijo. “By partnering with these farms, we will not only enhance our food and beverage offerings but also create a meaningful cycle of value that extends beyond our properties, enriching the communities we are privileged to be a part of. We’re eager to see these partnerships thrive – and to explore more opportunities like this in the future.”
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