Singapore hospitality management company, Far East Hospitality, has announced that all 16 of its hotels have achieved the GSTC Industry Criteria for Hotels Certification.
With this accreditation, Far East Hospitality now has the largest Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certified sites in the country. The certification is recognised globally as a benchmark in sustainability, underscores Far East Hospitality’s dedication to environmental stewardship and aligns with its mission to uphold the highest sustainable hospitality standards.
“Achieving the GSTC certification is a significant milestone for our company,” Far East Hospitality CEO, Arthur Kiong, said. “It reinforces our dedication to sustainability and demonstrates to our guests and clients that we are committed to upholding the highest standards of environmental stewardship and positive social impact. This certification is a testament to our current practices and a pledge to continue our journey towards a more sustainable future.”
The management company pursued the sustainability initiatives, achieving the certification ahead of the 2025 target set by the Singapore Hotel Association (SHA) and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB).
The initiative includes the annual tracking and monitoring of energy, water, waste and carbon emissions data, which contributes to Far East Hospitality Trust and Far East Orchard’s annual Sustainability Reports.
Far East Hospitality also created the Far More Sustainable framework, which encompasses initiatives to raise awareness about sustainability across its operations. Their initiatives actively encouraging guests to reuse towels and linens, implementing a carbon offset platform, eliminating single-use plastic water bottles, and switching to large amenity dispensers.
The strategic engagement of suppliers and local communities, such as supporting children/youth beneficiaries and local businesses underscores Far East Hospitality’s commitment to sustainable practices and enriching guests’ experience.
Control Union, a global network of inspection operations and laboratories that specialises in independent, globally recognised certifications, including those approved by the GSTC. The GSTC sets and manages global sustainable travel and tourism standards, ensuring that accredited entities meet rigorous sustainability criteria. They work together to promote environmentally responsible practices within the industry.
“Far East Hospitality’s achievement of GSTC certification for 16 sites is a remarkable accomplishment that underscores their unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism,” Control Union Singapore Ltd. general manager, Seth Wang, said.
“This multi-site certification highlights their dedication to implementing sustainable practices across all their properties, setting a benchmark for the industry. Control Union is honoured to support Far East Hospitality in their journey towards environmental excellence and to witness their proactive approach to promoting sustainable travel and hospitality. This certification not only reflects their operational integrity but also their leadership in fostering a greener future for tourism.”
Singapore Tourism Board assistant chief executive, policy and planning group and chief sustainability officer, Ong Huey Hong, added: “Congratulations to Far East Hospitality for achieving the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s certification for all its hotels with more than 4,000 rooms in Singapore.
“This accomplishment reflects Far East Hospitality’s commitment to sustainable hospitality and aligns with our efforts to advance Singapore’s position as a leading sustainable urban destination. We look forward to continued collaboration with Far East Hospitality to achieve our shared goals.”
This achievement signifies and advancement in its sustainability journey, reinforcing its position as a pioneer in the hospitality industry dedicated to environmental and socially responsible practices.
