In a pioneering step for eco-conscious hospitality, Forest Essentials, India’s leading luxury Ayurvedic skincare brand, has partnered with Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) to introduce a first-of-its-kind sustainability initiative across all Taj properties. The collaboration marks a significant shift in the luxury hospitality landscape by replacing single-use plastic amenities with refillable, biodegradable ceramic dispensers and bulk liquid solutions—an effort that significantly reduces environmental impact without compromising on guest experience.
A key highlight of this initiative is the inclusion of Forest Essentials’ signature Aloe Vera & Neem blend, renowned for its calming and purifying properties, and a long-time guest favorite at Taj hotels. In addition, five exclusive blends have been specially formulated for IHCL’s landmark palace properties, with each creation reflecting the unique history, design ethos, and sensorial atmosphere of the palace it serves.
The initiative has already delivered measurable impact, achieving a 61% reduction in plastic consumption, which translates to saving approximately 3,787 kilograms of plastic waste each month. These bath amenities are produced using ethically sourced Ayurvedic ingredients, ensuring complete traceability and promoting eco-conscious cultivation practices.
In a move that ties sustainability with social responsibility, the collaboration also strengthens Forest Essentials’ commitment to inclusive growth. The brand’s supply chain is driven by women in Uttarakhand, who are employed in the production of soaps, oils, and traditional skincare preparations like Ubtan—supporting long-term economic empowerment and community development.
Environmental benefits extend beyond plastic reduction. The program has led to a 13% drop in water usage, 31% decrease in electricity consumption, and substantial reductions in packaging and label waste, collectively minimizing the carbon footprint of guest amenities.
Taljinder Singh, Senior Vice President at IHCL, said, “We are happy to extend our partnership with Forest Essentials to launch an exclusive line for the Taj portfolio. IHCL has always led from the front when it comes to sustainability, and this initiative reflects our continued commitment under the ESG+ framework of Paathya to eliminate single-use plastics and promote planet-friendly practices.”
Samrath Bedi, Executive Director at Forest Essentials, added, “This initiative is a true reflection of our philosophy of conscious luxury. The refillable format maintains the integrity and quality our guests expect while pushing forward our mission of environmental stewardship.”
Neha Gadi, Head of Institutional Sales at Forest Essentials, emphasized that the collaboration offers more than an operational shift—it presents a scalable model for the future of responsible luxury. “Aligned with IHCL’s Paathya philosophy, this partnership shows how design, sustainability, and guest experience can come together to create lasting change,” she said.
Together, IHCL and Forest Essentials are reshaping the narrative around luxury and sustainability in Indian hospitality
