Jetwing Hotel’s dedication to sustainability is a breath of fresh air, particularly in today’s socio political climate that is struggling with the cost versus necessity factor of environment-first production and lifestyles. It is evident that to commit one’s profitable industry to sustainable practices demands perseverance and an earnest immersion. Much like what Chairman of Jetwing Hotels Hiran Cooray had to say: “Sustainability is a heartfelt commitment”, to which many are most inclined to agree. Driven by the desire to play their part in the spheres of environment and community, Jetwing has adopted and actively practices an operative sustainability strategy which is broken down into six key focus areas: energy and carbon, water and waste, biodiversity, community and culture, and sourcing and production. Director of Jetwing Hotels Ltd. Jude KasthuriArachchi, who leads the Engineering and Development team, provided a comprehensive breakdown of Jetwing Lake’s sustainability initiative and the nitty-gritties that goes into it – focused on reducing the dependence on fossil fuel and making the transition into adopting renewable sources of energy and the efficient use of energy. Renewable sources of energy · Solar energy Jetwing avoids 250 MT of carbon dioxide annually due to the employment of solar panelling which generates 1,350 kWh on average daily, allowing for energy that is free of any direct carbon emissions. Solar thermal panels provide for hot water during the day time and the process is taken over by the biomass boiler in the night. · Biomass boiler In lieu of diesel boilers, a biomass boiler is employed. It produces steam which drives the vapour absorption chiller for the laundry and hot water in the night, eliminating the use of 92,800 litres of diesel. Cinnamon wood, once discarded as waste in cinnamon spice farming, is used as a viable source of biomass, an added income to farmers in the area. Improving energy efficiency · Jetwing Lake features a host of initiatives in its guest’s rooms to ensure energy consumption is not wasteful whilst ensuring that guests comfort is not compromised. · Fitted with LEDs which requires less electricity, large windows minimising the requirement for artificial illumination, key card operated electrical systems switching off all unnecessary lights when the room is not in use etc. · Focused on responsible management of wastewater and solid waste. It’s vital in any industry, particularly in the hospitality field which offers premium services where waste is produced in substantial quantities. Water and waste management · Effluent treatment plant The significant quantities of waste released into waterways, which would otherwise wreak havoc on aquatic ecosystems, are being treated via Jetwing’s onsite treatment plant prior to being recycled for use within the hotel. · Solid waste management On site biogas and compost plants handle most waste; plastic, glass, paper, and metal are inventoried and sent for recycling off site. Additionally, Jetwing has pioneered the naturalist concept in the hospitality industry in Sri Lanka, and Jetwing Lake’s resident naturalist W.M.N.W. Bandara carries out awareness programmes for guests, associates, and locals. “Think globally and act locally” appears to be the motto here as the hotel chain is truly dedicated towards the betterment of its community and promotion of local advocacy. The hotel was honoured with the PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association) Gold Award for Corporate Environmental Programme and also won the Gold Flame award at the Sri Lankan National Energy Efficiency Awards for its innovative sustainability efforts. Family owned and in the tourism industry for the past 45 years, Jetwing Hotels has surpassed expectations in every aspect. Throughout all its properties, sustainable and responsible practices are given precedence with resource efficiency and community upliftment. Jetwing Lake is no different – situated in the ancient city of Dambulla, in the heart of North Central Sri Lanka, it is set in a location of unspoilt natural beauty. Taking its unique positioning to heart, the hotel has truly flourished, doing their very best to not take our planet for granted. By Dimithri Wijesinghe