SANDALS Negril Beach Resort and Spa emerged at the top of its class for the Caribbean region and the world at large, attaining its two-year Platinum Certification from international environmental sustainability firm EarthCheck.

Chief executive officer for Sandals Resorts International Adam Stewart accepted the award from Andre Russ, director of global markets for EarthCheck, who lauded the resort for its superb environmental work in his presentation.

“Sandals Negril Beach Resort and Spa has 12 undaunted years of sustainable environmental practices and are true market leaders in ecological considerations and conservation. Their continued ‘best green practices’ have set them apart and have earned them two-year Platinum certification,” said Russ.

Richard May, group director of environmental affairs at Sandals, who was also present at the function, noted his pride at the company’s environmental achievements.

“Sandals Resorts has always operated hotels with sustainable practices; it just wasn’t called that in the earlier days. Back then, it was just the way we did things. Environmental and social concern is in the DNA of our fabric and it will remain so infused as we continue to chart the way forward,” he said.

Stewart followed by heartily extending thanks to EarthCheck for their recognition.

“Conservation of the environment has always been a huge thing to us here at Sandals and we impress that not only our team members, but also on our guests. We are very thankful to EarthCheck for this wonderful acknowledgement and say that we will continue to help preserve and protect the environment as much as we can,” noted the CEO.

After achieving Platinum certification in February 2009, Sandals Negril Beach Resort and Spa has blazed a pioneering trail in environmental achievements, copping the world’s first ever two-year Platinum certification.

Sandals Resorts lead the region’s charge in EarthCheck certifications, with honours ranging from Bronze to Gold.

EarthCheck is designed to help the travel and tourism industry increase efficiencies and minimise environmental footprints. It makes it possible to track and measure resource use and waste output, enhance design and operational efficiencies and encourages corporate social responsibility.