Banyan Group, a global hospitality leader known for its sustainability-driven ethos, has released its 19th annual sustainability report, titled One Banyan, One Sustainable Future. The 2024 edition showcases the Group’s strides across climate action, marine conservation, waste management, and socio-economic empowerment—firmly reaffirming its founding mission of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People.”
Speaking on the occasion, Ho Ren Yung, Deputy CEO of Banyan Group, emphasized the organization’s long-standing belief that travel can and should be a force for good. “Sustainability is a cornerstone of our purpose, and our journey will continue to evolve with more ambitious climate action, deeper community engagement, and greater support for our associates to take action,” she said.
Tangible impact in reducing emissions and conserving water
Key environmental highlights in 2024 include a 5.7% reduction in emissions intensity per occupied room, achieved through strategic investment in energy-efficient infrastructure and renewable energy solutions. These included upgrades to lighting and room control systems, as well as solar panel installations across properties.
In parallel, the Group enhanced water stewardship through proactive leak detection, infrastructure upgrades, and reuse systems. The result: a 5.1% improvement in water efficiency per occupied room year-on-year.
The Group’s waste management efforts also saw measurable success, with 28% of total waste diverted from landfills through expanded recycling, composting, and food donation initiatives—a five-point increase over the previous year.
Marine conservation and community-focused programming
Banyan Group’s marine conservation programmes gained further momentum with the expansion of Our Marine Lab in the Maldives and the launch of a Coral Reef Restoration Project in collaboration with the China Environmental Protection Foundation (CEPF). These efforts underscore the Group’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and supporting ecological research in sensitive marine environments.
On the social front, the Group’s flagship Seedlings programme mentored 93 youths and facilitated over 2,500 internship opportunities. Meanwhile, Banyan’s artisan network now supports 306 artisan communities—including 66 newly engaged groups—strengthening rural production, promoting cultural preservation, and providing sustainable income channels.
To mark its 30th anniversary, the Banyan Global Foundation launched the Greater Good Grants, funding 30 associate-led projects that tackle local sustainability challenges. These were selected based on their potential for long-term environmental, social, or financial impact within communities where Banyan operates.
