Centara Hotels Now Accelerates Environmental, Social, and Governance Progress in Thailand and Maldives

Published on November 27, 2025

Centara Hotels & Resorts is continuing to solidify their position as an industry leader in responsible tourism and in the Environmental, Social, and Governance Criteria (ESG), as the Thai hotel operator, with 87 hotels in Thailand, the Maldives and other countries, executes another phase in the company’s long-term sustainability strategy with a focus on responsible and socially sustainable business practices.

The company’s commitment to environmental sustainability, social sustainability, and responsible governance, as part of the climate change (net zero) strategy, social impact, and ethical business practices working collaboratively, provides the foundation for the latest advances in sustainable responsible tourism performed by Centara for the integration of this sustainable responsible tourism to its hotels in Thailand and the Maldives, as the primary integration of tourism for Thailand and the Maldives destinations.

A Long-Term Sustainability Vision

Centara’s sustainability strategy is built on the foundation of its C-E-N-T-A-R-A Sustainability Blueprint, a comprehensive framework designed to guide its operations toward sustainable development. This blueprint focuses on seven key priority areas, including energy efficiency, water management, waste reduction, and social responsibility.

The company has made remarkable progress since 2009, when it first adopted the EarthCheck environmental management system, setting international standards for sustainable hotel operations. Over the years, Centara has continued to build on its sustainability achievements, with key milestones including the elimination of single-use plastics in guest service areas, the introduction of the P.O.P. (Plastic Only, Please) initiative, and its participation in Thailand’s Green Hotel certification programme.

One of the most significant achievements in recent years has been Centara’s full commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050. The company has set ambitious targets, including a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions per occupied room by 2029 compared to the 2019 baseline. To date, Centara has already achieved a 35% reduction, outperforming industry benchmarks. This effort is complemented by the installation of solar cells at 14 hotels, which have helped reduce carbon emissions by more than 2,970 tonnes of CO₂e.

Key ESG Achievements in 2023

Centara’s commitment to sustainability has been reflected in several notable achievements in 2023:

Energy Efficiency:
Centara has installed advanced energy management systems across its hotels, including smart sensors and building management systems, which have led to substantial reductions in energy consumption. The company has also begun generating renewable energy, with 4,780 MWh of clean energy produced between January and October 2025. This renewable energy now accounts for 4% of Centara’s total electricity use.

Water Management:
Water conservation has been a central focus for Centara, with the company surpassing its target of a 20% reduction in water consumption. As of 2025, Centara has reduced water usage by 30.1% across its properties. Additionally, Centara has implemented water recycling initiatives, reusing over 454,416m³ of treated wastewater for landscape irrigation.

Waste Management:
Centara has taken significant steps toward reducing waste, achieving a 24.5% reduction in waste sent to landfills. The company has also increased its recycling efforts, reaching an average recycling rate of 28.9%. In addition to traditional waste management practices, Centara has introduced innovative projects such as upcycling plastic bottles into items like bags and hats, with more than 3,872 kg of plastic being repurposed across four hotels in Krabi.

Social Commitment and Community Engagement

Centara’s sustainability efforts extend beyond environmental initiatives. The company has long invested in community empowerment through various programs designed to improve living standards and support local businesses. Centara has partnered with Scholars of Sustenance (SOS) Thailand to donate surplus food to communities in need, reducing food waste and combating hunger. The company’s “One Hotel, One Product” program has also provided over 6,300m² of complimentary retail space for local entrepreneurs, helping to promote regional products and create economic opportunities for small businesses.

Additionally, Centara has a strong commitment to inclusive employment, hiring individuals with disabilities and senior workers. This commitment is reflected in its company-wide philosophy of creating a supportive and progressive workplace environment.

Governance and Transparency

Centara is equally dedicated to maintaining high standards of governance and ethical practices. The company has earned an “Excellent” (five-star) Corporate Governance rating for six consecutive years, awarded by the Thai Institute of Directors Association. Furthermore, Centara is a member of the Thai Private Sector Collective Action Coalition Against Corruption (CAC), demonstrating its commitment to transparency and accountability in business operations.

The company’s financial investments further reflect its long-term ESG goals, with Centara securing over THB 8.7 billion in sustainability-linked loans and green bonds. These funds are being used to finance projects that align with Centara’s environmental objectives, supporting its continued growth in sustainable tourism.

Looking Toward the Future

Centara’s ESG progress emphasizes how committed they are to making the hospitality industry more sustainable. They are protecting the environment while simultaneously helping the communities they work with. Centara is managing their resources, and and inclusive growth, priorit sustainable practices, and protecting the environment. Centara is going to continue to be one of the biggest influences on responsible tourism in Thailand, The Maldives, and other countries.