Five hotels win eco awards

Sixteen hotels which have received local eco-certification awards in the last two years are to be presented with a proposal to develop their environmental systems to levels recognised in the European Union, Tourism Minister Francis Zammit Dimech...

Sixteen hotels which have received local eco-certification awards in the last two years are to be presented with a proposal to develop their environmental systems to levels recognised in the European Union, Tourism Minister Francis Zammit Dimech said.

The award scheme, organised by the product planning and development directorate of the Malta Tourism Authority, is aimed at encouraging hotels to reduce their impact on the environment.

Hotels are assessed on their environmental management systems, waste management, products and material, energy use, water use, air quality, noise protection, buildings and green areas, local culture and guest information.

Dr Zammit Dimech said hotels will also be enticed to join a process that will help them achieve Europe-based certification in eco-management and auditing in 2005.

The minister was speaking at the presentation of eco-certification awards to the Hilton Malta, Crown Plaza Malta, Barcelo Riviera Resort & Spa, Sunflower Hotel and Grand Hotel Mercure Corallia Selmun.

Eleven hotels - Radisson SAS Point Resort, Hotel Bernard, Hotel Santana, Corinthia Marina, Corinthia San Gorg, The New Dolmen, Corinthia Palace, Corinthia Jerma Palace, Le Meridien Phoenicia, Victoria Hotel and Coastline Hotel - received the certification last year.

Dr Zammit Dimech said a number of sustainable development indicators for the tourism sector had been drawn up and were being evaluated.

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