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Tabacón Grand Thermal Resort, La Fortuna/Arenal, Costa Rica

AHEAD OF COSTA RICA’S PLEDGE TO BE CARBON-NEUTRAL BY 2021, TABACÓN GRAND SPA THERMAL RESORT ANNOUNCES COMPREHENSIVE GREEN INITIATIVE PROGRAM: TABACÓN GREEN
From recycling to reforestation, guests lend a hand in quest to make Costa Rica the world's first carbon-neutral country

The recipient of three-leaf designation for Sustainable Tourism and certified a carbon-neutral resort by the Ministry of Environment and Energy of Costa Rican Republic in May 2009, Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort in La Fortuna prides itself on its leadership role in sustainability efforts, protection of the environment, and community involvement in sustainable efforts in the Northern region of Costa Rica. As the country gears up to become the world's first carbon-neutral country by 2021, Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort introduces its own far-reaching sustainability program, Tabacón Green, to further environmental awareness and allow guests to contribute in a meaningful and memorable way.

Through this ground-breaking Tabacón Green, Sustainable Tourism program and the commitment of its staff, the Green Brigade, the resort's own green initiatives are supplemented by a guest participation program of planting trees to minimize the carbon footprint of arrivals by car or bus, with more than 3000 trees planted thus far. Over 50% of the more than 872 acres total land owned by Tabacón is under protection as primary or secondary rainforest.

"In an area with tropical rainforest, the Arenal Volcano and many kinds of wildlife, conservation and environmental care are critical," noted Uwe Wagner, director general. "We encourage our guests to become involved in sustainability. We’re honored that our resort is the first in the world to receive the Seven Stars and Stripes' Green World Award."

Rainforest Protection, Recycling, and Energy Conservation
By protecting the rainforest within the property, the natural habitat of howler monkeys, coatimundi, white-faced monkeys, three-toed sloths, snakes, toucans and over 200 species of birds is secured. Hunting and extracting animals or endangered plants is strictly prohibited on the property. Gardeners and maintenance staff monitor and observe local poachers and inform the local MINAE (Ministry of Environment and Energy) of any violations.

The resort's gardens provide a portion of the resort's own produce, and, to eliminate the use of toxic pesticides in the maintenance of the extensive botanical gardens and to protect the natural animal habitat, the resort produces its own organic fertilizers and uses only organic products for pest control.

Recycling practices have been in place since 1997. The resort has implemented energy-saving practices via sensors in the outdoor lighting and in guest rooms. Water is heated by the nearby Arenal Volcano so no artificial water heating systems are required. All water throughout the resort is mineral water that emanates from the volcano and from natural springs in the rainforest. Organic waste is supplied to local farmers to be used in livestock feed.

The resort's treatment plant is analyzed regularly by the Ministry of Health in order to monitor the allowed level of DBO (Biochemical Demand of Oxygen) in the waters returned to the river. All drinking water is checked on a strict schedule. A certified Forest Engineer inspects the property regularly in order to monitor the development of reforestation and the conversion process to become an organic operation. Proamsa is the environmental consultant company that submits reports to the Ministry of the Environmental on a quarterly base, as per Costa Rican law requirements.

Through the resort's programs for energy conservation which have been actively enforced since 2006, Tabacón has succeeded in reducing its electricity consumption by approximately 35%. This level of power usage is low when compared to the world average for a luxury resort. Low-consumption lamps are used to power public areas, and guest room electricity is controlled by key cards. The resort has also installed low-power electric fans in some guest rooms to reduce usage of air conditioning systems.

Environmental Awareness, Staff Commitment and Community Programs
The resort's community programs are part of this effort as well and are encouraged by Tabacón. For each $3 per room per night donation that a guest makes, the resort provides matching funds, establishing a community fund. This fund provides for school supplies and uniforms for underprivileged children in San Carlos, donation of computers to local schools, donation of all furniture and fixtures to old-age homes and other institutions, donation of construction materials to local development programs in sports (local stadium), construction of local schools and a social hall, and food and clothing for the local orphanage, Hogarcito San Juan Bosco. To date, the community programs have raised over $205,000.00 in equipment and supplies.

Tabacón’s Green Brigade is a group of employees committed to increasing Tabacón’s environmental awareness. Through environmentally responsible practices, the Green Brigade aims to offer guests, and the community, a unique resort through the preservation of its natural surroundings. The team works to achieve this goal through waste removal around the property, reforestation programs aimed at the conservation of local bird and wildlife species, the creation of herb gardens, and community-based campaigns to raise awareness and fight Dengue fever.

Tabacón has also spearheaded a strategic plan in conjunction with ASANHOR (the local association in charge of reforestation and protection of the environment), MINAE and ICT to create a biological connection among Monteverde, Tilaran, Guatuzo, Los Chiles and Sarapiqui.

About Tabacón Grand Thermal Resort

Certified a carbon neutral resort as of May 2009, newly awarded Luxury Eco Certification (second resort in the world) and the first hotel in the world to receive the Seven Stars and Stripes Green World Award, Tabacón Grand Spa Thermal Resort is at the forefront of Costa Rica’s sustainability efforts. Acclaimed as one of the "world’s best spa resorts" and "spas" by Travel + Leisure, Luxist, Spa Magazine and Luxury SpaFinder; and one of the "world’s top eco-spas" by Concierge.com, Tabacón features a three-unit Temazcal, 11 outdoor treatments bungalows, and a menu of indigenous treatments including volcanic mud wraps and Watsu in an outdoor thermal pool. Other highlights within Tabacón’s rainforest setting are 12 natural hot spring pools, natural waterfalls, lagoons, thermal river pools and exotic gardens. A member of the Leading Hotels of the World, Tabacón’s Grand Spa is also a member of the Leading Spas of the World and Healing Hotels of the World.

The 114-room resort is surrounded by the energy of the live Arenal volcano. New this year, Tabacón also offers an education-rich wellness vacation program where guests can consult with a nutritionist and spa expert to develop a healthy living plan and assist with weight management. Tabacón has updated accommodations and swimming pool areas. Its restaurants serve an enticing mix of Ayurvedic, Costa Rican and Mexican cuisine. The signature Gala Dinner is served in a private rainforest bungalow with a private chef and server. Nearby activities include nature tours, hanging bridges, ziplining, canyoning, and hiking to the volcano.

www.tabacon.com 
011–506–2519–1999
or toll-free
1–877–277–8291
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