A five-star luxury resort hotel in the heart of Noosa Heads has been commended for its sustainability.
Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort was awarded Sustainable Tourism Certification, from Ecotourism Australia, in recognition of its commitment to the environment and the community.
The certification is granted to properties that demonstrate best practice across sustainable management, environmental impact, cultural impact and socio-economic impact.
Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan lauded the resort.
“We applaud Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort for its sustainable and responsible tourism practices, which are a benchmark for how hotels can work proactively in their communities to protect the unique natural environment of their destinations,” she said via a media release.
“Through Sustainable Tourism Certification, hotels can play a role in inspiring others to adapt their own behaviours to be responsible stewards of our planet.”
Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort general manager Mark Wilkinson said the resort was dedicated to sustainability in tourism.
“Visitors come to Noosa to experience its exceptional beauty and ecology and we are proud to play our part in protecting this through a culture of sustainable hospitality,” he said.
“We consistently and continuously monitor, measure and mitigate our operations to reduce our environmental footprint, but more than that we actively look for ways to make a positive impact.”
The media release said the resort was committed to reducing its energy, water and food waste and eliminating single-use plastics, with refillable amenities in all rooms.
It is also highlighting local and sustainable suppliers, including local farmers, to not only give back to the community, but to reduce food miles.
Noosa was listed by UNESCO as an official Biosphere Reserve in 2007, designating it a place of learning for sustainable development and ensuring the protection of its natural terrestrial, marine and coastal ecosystems.
The designation also restores the traditional life of the First Nations people living in the vicinity and conserves the biodiversity of the area.
Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort is on Hastings Street. It boasts a swim-up pool bar, indulgent day spa, gym and award-winning Noosa Beach House Restaurant. It has 176 suites and villas.
