Six Senses has received the highest level of certification by Control Union – a certification body accredited by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. Six Senses properties underwent an extensive audit by Control Union to verify their efforts in sustainability planning, reducing negative environmental impacts, enhancing cultural heritage, and maximizing social and economic benefits for surrounding communities.
Jeff Smith, Six Senses Vice President of Sustainability, shares, “GSTC Certification is a mark of trust and credibility in sustainability. While this certification is issued globally, it marks a proud moment for our individual Six Senses properties included in this certification and their sustainability teams, who work proactively to provide uncompromising hospitality, environmentally cognizant operations, an outstanding guest experience, and high levels of engagement among colleagues and the local community.”
The GSTC Certification is a respected seal of sustainable travel and tourism, offering an antidote to “greenwashing” in the hospitality industry. The extensive certification criteria aim to give credibility to sustainability claims, ensuring they are both measurable and can be upheld through meaningful action. Certification is based on third-party audits of hotels and corporate processes by accredited auditors, and is granted for a period of three years, providing a continuous commitment to improvement and accountability.
Six Senses Vana, a pioneering wellness retreat nestled in the Himalayan foothills, has made significant contributions to achieving this prestigious certification, embracing sustainability as a core value since its inception. The GSTC certification further validates Six Senses Vana’s efforts to minimize environmental footprint, preserve cultural heritage, and cultivate meaningful connections with the local community, thereby marking a proud moment in its long-standing sustainability journey.
Jaspreet Singh, General Manager of Six Senses Vana, added, “The recent GSTC certification is a testament to the collective efforts of the entire Six Senses family. At Six Senses Vana, we take immense pride in this achievement. As a LEED Platinum-certified wellness retreat, sustainability has always been at the core of our philosophy. We strive to provide an uncompromising guest experience while minimizing our environmental footprint and fostering meaningful connections with the local community. This certification further validates our commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism.”
From pioneering LEED Platinum certification in 2015 to launching cutting-edge sustainability initiatives, the retreat has set new standards for sustainable hospitality in India. These principles are aligned to core values at Six Senses, communicated through the Earth Lab, where guests are educated on various sustainable initiatives and encouraged to participate in hands-on workshops to imbibe these sustainable alternatives in their lifestyle. Witnessing Sustainability fund projects firsthand offers guest a tangible connection to the local community and wildlife projects, infusing their Vana journey with purpose and positive impact.
Manish Kumar, Director of Sustainability at Six Senses Vana, elaborated, “The GSTC certification is a rigorous and independent assessment of a tourism business’s sustainability practices. It evaluates various criteria, including sustainable management, socio-economic impacts, cultural preservation, and environmental protection. Achieving this certification demonstrates Six Senses’ commitment to operating at the highest sustainability standards, ensuring that every aspect of the guest experience is carefully considered for its impact on the planet and the local community.”
Six Senses Vana’s sustainability efforts extend to its daily operations, including water conservation, ecological conservation, renewable energy, responsible sourcing, and waste management. From living walls to abundant natural light and organic gardens, every detail at Six Senses Vana is carefully crafted to foster a harmonious relationship between guests and nature.
