Environmental
Report 2014/2015
1
Contents
5 Introduction
7
Facts about Sunwing Family Resorts
10 Sustainability and Environmental work
Facts about the EU Ecolabel and Travelife
12 Environmental Report
Energy
Water
Waste
Awareness
Awards
18 Action plan
Environmental Policy
Objectives
Environmental targets
20 More information / Contact us
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3
Introduction
Sunwing Resorts has been practising sustainability issues for many years.
Thus, this is the sixth issue of our environmental report which reflects
the approach for continuous improvement in contributing to a sustainable
tourism sector.
Sunwing Family Resorts are either operated by Thomas Cook Hotels
& Resorts or by franchisees.
Sunwing Family Resorts welcomes every year 210.000 hotels guests
from Thomas Cook’s Tour Operators. The resorts can be found in Rhodes,
Crete (Greece), Majorca, Gran Canaria, Tenerife (Spain), Cyprus, Phuket
(Thailand), Side (Antalya coast-Turkey) and Hurghada (Egypt).
Sunwing Family Resorts has been a Thomas Cook premium product for
families since 1967 with a high percentage of returning customers
– around 66%
95% all guests are satisfied or very satisfied with their stay at our resorts.
In the following pages you can read about our work in relation to the
environment. We believe that in the future, it will be even more important
to offer sustainable tourism accommodation and we want to continue to
be “first in mind and first in choice”. Environmental considerations are part
of a successful future at home and on holiday and make an important
contribution to preservation of the natural environment.
Peter Grandell
Managing Director for Sunwing Nordics &
Director of Operations Thomas Cook Hotels & Resorts
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5
Facts about Sunwing Family Resorts
CYPRUS: Sunwing Sandy Bay Beach
Number of customers at Sunwing Family Resorts : 250.000
GREECE: Sunwing Kallithea Beach
Sunwing Makrigialos Beach
Number of employees at Sunwing Family Resorts : 2.600
SPAIN:
Sunwing Alcudia Beach
Sunwing Cala Bona Beach
Sunwing Arguineguin Beach
Sunwing Fañabé Beach
THAILAND: Sunwing Bangtao Beach
Sunwing Kamala Beach
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TURKEY:
Sunwing Side West Beach
Sunwing Side East Beach
EGYPT:
Sunwing Waterworld Resort Makadi Beach
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SUNWING
CALA BONA BEACH
SUNWING
ALCUDIA BEACH
SUNWING
ARGUINEGUIN BEACH
SUNWING
SANDY BAY BEACH
SUNWING WATERWORLD
MAKADI BEACH
SUNWING
BANGTAO BEACH
Opened : 1990
Rooms : 363
Pools : 4
Restaurants : 2
Operates : April to October
Employees : 160
Opened : 1971
Rooms : 455
Pools : 6
Restaurants : 3
Operates : All year
Employees : 180
Opened : 1986
Rooms : 252
Pools : 3
Restaurants : 2
Operates : All year
Employees : 155
Opened : 1989
Rooms : 364
Pools : 9
Restaurants : 2
Operates : All year
Employees : 182
Opened : 2012
Rooms : 556
Pools : 9
Restaurants : 10
Operates : All year
Employees : 550
Opened : 2006
Rooms : 300
Pools : 6
Restaurants : 2
Operates : All year
Employees : 250
SUNWING
FAÑABÉ BEACH
SUNWING
MAKRIGIALOS BEACH
SUNWING
KALLITHEA BEACH
SUNWING
KAMALA BEACH
SUNWING
SIDE WEST BEACH
SUNWING
SIDE EAST BEACH
Opened : 2003
Rooms : 241
Pools : 3
Restaurants : 2
Operates : All year
Employees : 105
Opened : 1984
Rooms : 267
Pools : 10
Restaurants : 3
Operates : April to October
Employees : 150
Opened : 1975
Rooms : 572
Pools : 6
Restaurants : 4
Operates : April to October
Employees : 260
Opened : 2009
Rooms : 31 1
Pools : 7
Restaurants : 2
Operates : All year
Employees : 190
Opened : 2007
Rooms : 254
Pools : 4
Restaurants: 3
Operates : April to November
Employees: 150
Opened : 2012
Rooms : 300
Pools : 7
Restaurants: 4
Operates : April to November
Employees : 230
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9
Environmental work
In 1995, Sunwing Family Resorts initiated a unique program, called “100 steps
towards a better environment”. In 2001 we took a step further by implementing
a program based on the eco label “Nordic Swan” which aims to improve environmental awareness and promote tourism by enabling holiday-makers to make
an environmentally aware choice. The Nordic Swan Label is only awarded to hotels
located in the Nordic countries, so we are applying for the “EU-Ecolabel”, equivalent to the Nordic Swan, for all of our resorts. The “EU-Ecolabel” award for hotels
was developed by the European Union and introduced in spring 2003. It focuses
on the use of energy, water, and chemicals and the minimisation of waste.
Sunwing Family Resorts have for many years sought to address environmental
concerns. These range from the sorting of waste at our resorts to co-operation,
at a European level, in order to create guidelines for the tourist accommodation
service industry. In recognition of our work, Sunwing Family Resorts Kallithea in
Rhodes was in September 2003 the first hotel in Europe to receive the EU-Ecolabel
for its accommodation. Furthermore in 2008, Sunwing Side West became the first
hotel in Turkey and in 2012 Sunwing Kamala the first hotel in Asia also to receive
the EU-Ecolabel.
In 2010, we decided to move a step further, so we joined Travelife which is
a sustainability scheme recognised by the GSTC (Global Sustainability Tourism
Council) that covers full spectrum of sustainability issues. Environment,
Ethical Trade, Labour, Social, Cultural, and Economic.
The subscription was renewed in 2013 and all Sunwing Family Resorts have
achieved the Gold Award.
The sustainability responsibilities in Thomas Cook Northern Europe Hotels
& Resorts include:
• monitoring and reporting sustainability performance every year
• working with external sustainability organisations to further our knowledge
and support best practice
• integrating sustainability processes into the day-to-day operations of our
businesses
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EUROPEAN ECO LABEL CRITERIA
FOR TOURIST ACCOMMODATIONS
We actively support the European Union’s Ecolabel
Scheme by having awarded 10 Sunwing Family Resorts
so far and by participating in its revision process and
openly share our experience and knowledge from its
implementation in our resorts.
Having being awarded with the European Ecolabel is the best way to tell our guests
about our efforts regarding environmental measures and quality improvements.
Enterprises bearing the Flower logo have officially been distinguished as being
amongst the most environmentally friendly in their area since it is the Europe’s
official trademark with high reputation based on strong and reliable criteria.
The European Ecolabel is a guarantee for high environmental performance,
since independent auditors are awarding the label after an on site audit which
is being effected before the awarding and can also be effected whenever during
the label award.
The tourist accommodation must comply with all criteria (best practice &
performance) in order to be awarded the EU Ecolabel, which aims to ensure
a green future and sustainable development.
In parallel we actively support Travelife which is
a sustainability scheme supported by the major
tour operators. Therefore, the hotel has to fulfil
not only environmental criteria, but social ones
as well.
All our Sunwing Family Resorts achieved the
golden award! The auditing was effected by
the management of Travelife itself who has
conducted the majority of the audits and the rest
were conducted by independent consultants,
since we feel that this approach has a greater
impact and seriousness behind it. Moreover,
using Travelife’s system now, we have the most
objective, accurate and updated sustainability
database of our hotel’s performance.
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Environmental report
ENERGY
In all Sunwing Family Resorts in Europe, 95% of light bulbs have been replaced by
low-energy bulbs and timers and photocells have been installed for the controlled
operation of outdoor lights.
Now, we take a step further and we have already started to change all low-energy
bulbs to LED ones. Room temperatures are individually controlled by thermostats and
there are automatic systems which turn the lights and the air conditioning off when
guests leave their rooms: these have been installed in 85% of the guest rooms and
there is a programme for further installation during renovation periods. In five Sunwing
Family Resorts, (SW Arguineguin, SW Sandy Bay, SW Cala Bona, SW Kallithea and
SW Makrigialos), heat recovery systems have been installed which produce hot tap
water from the air conditioning chillers, covering the resort’s needs for hot water during
the months in which the air conditioning systems operate.
In SW Alcudia, solar or photovoltaic panels are installed heating the pool’s and
apartment’s water and Building Management Systems in six Sunwing Family Resorts
(SW Side East, SW Side West, SW Sandy Bay, SW Calabona, SW Kallithea and SW
Makrigialos) are centrally adjusting the operating time of high energy consumption
machinery.
Additionally, we have installed in two Sunwing Family Resorts (SW Arguineguin and
SW Sandy Bay) innovative application systems as a fuel device in burners achieving
96% efficiency - saving oil consumption and reducing CO2 and Nox emissions respectively, and in all electrical networks we have installed energy saving devices reducing
electricity consumption per hotel. New technology generators have been installed in six
hotels (SW Arguineguin, SW Side East, SW Side West, SW Sandy Bay, SW Kallithea and
SW Makrigialos pool plant rooms which by a chemical reaction with the sea water use
at the pools, produce the chlorine needed for their safe and healthy operation and
reduction of the chemicals purchase. Sand filters have been replaced with crystal filters
reducing the number of back washes needed to keep the clearance of the water and
by this way also reducing energy and water loss.
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Moreover, special maintenance procedures have been drawn up and documented
for these energy-consuming machinery and equipment so as to achieve high
efficiency and low energy consumption. Electricity, gas and oil consumption is closely
controlled, documented and followed up with provisions for better information.
Last, cooperation with Universities trying to find ways to improve the energy performance of the buildings, by implementing a methodology for calculating their integrated performance and setting standards based on certification schemes.
Continuous improvement in the services offered to Sunwing Family Resorts guests,
including the new spa & pool installations, new appliances in the rooms (microwave
ovens, toasters, boilers, etc.) or the introduction of all inclusive concept and OBC, has
resulted a slight increase in energy consumption. However, in constructing or purchasing decisions, environmental criteria are considered thus minimising environmental
effect without compromising the comfort of Sunwing Family Resorts guests.
Energy Consumption kwh/bednight
YEAR
20052006 200720082009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
SUNWING
Kallithea 11,06 11,70 12,6712,21 10,20 12,91 12,17 12,5912,51 12,18
Makrigialos
13,9313,21 14,17 15,5714,79 13,38 17,03 17,69 18,3218,35
Sandy Bay
19,11 18,88 22,01 22,11 21,82 22,16 22,7623,0221,87 23,67
Alacudia
18,5517,51 16,0214,2816,85 17,85 15,56 16,2017,66 17,87
Cala Bona
14,9310,33 10,3410,7211,23 12,94 11,69 13,28 12,93 15,45
Arguineguin
20,3520,49 20,10 19,11 19,88 16,64 18,20 19,73 19,95 20,92
Fañabé
20,7421,89 23,15 23,7923,98 23,07 23,18 24,52 25,41 23,80
Side West
14,72
20,16
22,12
23,23
20,54
25,45
20,78
20,14
Side East
22,94
21,30
19,67
Bangtao
32,13
32,60
31,21
30,32
27,22
Kamala
21,29
12,89
21,72
Makadi
39,32
47,36
Average energy
consumption
16,9516,29 16,6517,24 17,61 19,37 19,30 20,7221,11
22,36
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WATER
All room taps and showers have been equipped with aerators which reduce water
flow while maintaining water pressure and 80% are of the single mixer type. Toilet
flushers are adjusted to less than 6lt of water per flush and during renovations double
flushing system is installed. Showers in kitchens or outdoors have a system to stop the
flow of water automatically after a certain time or if not occupied, and the gardens are
normally irrigated during night hours to avoid water evaporation from the hot summer
sun. Finally, periodic inspections checking for water leakages are documented and
forwarded to maintenance staff for corrective actions. During the past year we have
cooperated with the Travel Foundation on a water project in Rhodes,
in order to retrieve ways to further develop in water management.
Water Consumption lt/bednight
YEAR
20052006 200720082009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
SUNWING
Kallithea 185 180 186 181 221 238 232 229 224237
Makrigialos
265228 287269266 236 217 180 141 116
Sandy Bay
241195 201194203 194 180 172 175173
Alcudia
250260 279228204 214 204177 251 242
Cala Bona
234197 227216 218 224 202 209257207
Arguineguin 178168 178189181 173 166159171 191
Fañabé
316 231 242227184 204178 200197 194
Side West
357
355
368
407
340
482
423
470
Side East
494
404
375
Bangtao
580
627
932
714
703
Kamala
286
349
451
Makadi
377
497
Average water consumption
238208 245232231 274 261 320 307321
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Continuous improvement in the services offered to Sunwing Family Resorts guests,
including the new spa installations, new sports pool construction, new private pools,
new water slides, the introduction of all inclusive concept and OBC, or water supplier that did not fulfil water quality requirements and therefore was wasted, (such suppliers have already been replaced) has resulted a slight increase in water consumption. However in constructing decisions, environmental criteria are considered thus
minimising environmental effect without compromising the comfort
of Sunwing Family Resorts guests.
CHEMICALS
The use of disinfectants and chemicals is limited: where this unavoidable however,
environmentally friendly products are sought out. All the chemicals are biodegradable and the quantity is measured through dosing devices. New generation generators which by chemical reaction produce the chlorine needed for a safe pool have
been installed. Chemical-free cleaning methods are also promoted.
WASTE
All Sunwing Family Resorts have introduced the sorting of waste into at least five
categories. Recycling stations are placed strategically around the resort areas,
even though in some locations the local authorities have been slow to respond.
We routinely avoid buying small quantities or materials which are over-packaged or
are even designed for one use; such products include shampoos, soaps, shower
caps, and breakfast portions such as butter or marmalade. We introduced purchasing of bio-degradable bags replacing the plastic ones used in our Mini Markets.
We recognize that purchasing decisions can contribute significantly to environmental protection.
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Sunwing Makrigialos Beach:
EU-Ecolabel award Golden Travelife Award
Sunwing Arguineguin Beach:
The first hotel in Spain awarded the EU-Ecolabel Golden Travelife Award
AWARENESS
In Sunwing Family Resorts we try to raise awareness of environmental issues both
internally and externally through a variety of educational and training initiatives.
Our employees participate in environmental training programs each year which
include general education on climate change, methods of controlling the amount
of detergents and disinfectants used, reducing electricity and water consumption,
separating waste into the appropriate receptacles with separate collection of the
hazardous waste, and general environmental issues. A key element in Sunwing
Family Resorts’ focus on quality and environment issues is our recognition of the
importance of staff involvement. Proper training and information for staff have
encouraged their involvement in environmental initiatives. Our hotel executives,
the sustainability manager and the environmental coordinators have worked
together with local authorities and individual stakeholders so as to improve
awareness and general conditions on the destinations. By convincing others to
undertake similar plans, we hope to advance sustainable tourism generally.
AWARDS
Even though the nicest reward for us at Sunwing Family
Resorts is to serve our environment in the best way we
can, we are happy to have achieved the following distinctions for our efforts so far.
Sunwing Kallithea Beach :
The first hotel in Europe awarded the EU-Ecolabel 2nd
environmental award among all Greek enterprises
Golden Travelife Award
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Sunwing Sandy Bay Beach:
The first hotel in Cyprus awarded the EU-Ecolabel 2nd national
environmental management award Golden Travelife Award
Sunwing Cala Bona Beach :
The first hotel in Balearic Islands awarded the EU-Ecolabel
Golden Travelife Award
Sunwing Fañabé Beach:
The first hotel in Tenerife awarded the EU-Ecolabel
Golden Travelife Award
Sunwing Alcudia Beach:
Awarded the EU-Ecolabel Golden Travelife Award
Sunwing Side West Beach :
The first hotel in Turkey and outside Europe awarded the EU-Ecolabel
“White Star” Ecolabel Award Golden Travelife Award
Sunwing Side East Beach:
EU-Ecolabed Award Golden Travelife Award
Sunwing Bangtao Beach:
Golden Travelife Award
Sunwing Kamala Beach :
The first hotel in Asia awarded the EU-Ecolabel Golden Travelife Award
Moreover, Sunwing Family Resorts consistently since 1994 receive
the International Blue Flag award for the proper management and
maintenance of coastal environments and beaches.
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Action plan
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
Sunwing Family Resorts believe that continuing success in the hotel industry
depends on:
•
•
•
Offering high quality services in a clean, safe and well-protected environment.
Constant adaptation of its services and products to new environmental
standards and to the demands of its guests as these are shaped by
the economy, technology and social changes.
Consistent training of staff so that they understand and adopt these new
technologies and practices which protect the environment.
Each hotel department and its employees participate in this effort: it is necessary
to ensure that products and services are always safe and do not damage
the environment but if possible protect it and improve it.
We also motivate and put pressure on our partners, suppliers and local
authorities to accept and implement similar practices, always keeping in
mind local circumstances and national legislation.
Our company is committed to the environmental targets it has set itself, using
material and human resources to achieve the targets. We make this policy known
to our guests, staff and stakeholders.
Our activities are examined with respect to our policy and relevant legislation.
Our environmental work is reported openly and objectively.
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OBJECTIVES
Continuous improvement is based on measurable environmental objectives
such as :
•
•
•
•
Reduction of energy consumption.
Reduction of water consumption.
Elimination or limited use of harmful chemicals.
Limited production of wastes.
ENVIRONMENTAL TARGETS
Sunwing Family Resorts’ environmental action plan is designed to guarantee
the reduction in consumption of energy, water and chemicals and reduction in
wastes and to increase the points acquired by each resort every year from the
optional criteria of the EU-Ecolabel and the mandatory criteria of Travelife.
Our targets include the following:
•
•
•
•
Average optional EU-Ecolabel points from all Sunwing Family Resorts to
increase to 55 by the end of 2015.
All Sunwing Family Resort to achieve the Travelife Gold Award according
to the new criteria implemented from April 2014.
Ensure a continuous reduction in the consumption of natural resources by
a percentage that every resort will set based on its detailed action plan.
Ensure that all new employees are informed of our environmental activities
by completing training in basic environmental issues and business-related
environmental aspects every year.
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More information/
Contact us
On our environmental web pages you will find supplementary information
about the individual resorts, as well as a PDF-version of this environmental report.
Our Internet sites:
Sweden:
www.ving.se/sunwing
www.ving.no/sunwing
Norway:
Denmark: www.spies.dk/sunwing
Finland:
www.tjareborg.fi/sunwing
For further information on our environmental activities,
please contact [email protected] or our Sustainability
- CSR Manager Mina Splagkounia-Zahariou at
[email protected]
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