The National Forest Walking Festival Celebrates Its 16th Year of Exploration, Inspiration, and Accessible Adventures

Located upon a scenic green hill overlooking the thriving streets of Iwata, Shizuoka, GREENITY IWATA opened its doors to guests for the first time on the 29th of November 2024, offering visitors a luxurious and serene retreat. Photo credits: GREENITY IWATA The property boasts 55 beautifully designed guest rooms, including ten premium suites, all created using high-quality materials to blend in with the property's lush surroundings. Guests can take a stroll and connect with nature in the hotel's gardens, which are adorned with an array of seasonal plants and trees, or they can enjoy the peaceful and calming atmosphere of the property's lounge and bar overlooking the outside space. Two onsite restaurants serve a delicious variety of French and Japanese dishes made from fresh local ingredients, and there are two private banquet rooms available for hire as well as a chapel. Other facilities include two large public onsen, each equipped with saunas as well as open-air and indoor baths that use natural hot spring water, thought to have skin-purifying qualities, pumped from 1,500 meters below the hotel's foundations. Located on the western side of Shizuoka, Iwata is an area surrounded by sea, mountains and nature, much of which inspired the interiors and landscaping of the hotel. The hotel was also designed with a community-based concept in mind, which aims to bring together residents and visitors alike to share in the region's rich history, culture and local industries. Nearby nature attractions include the Shishigahana Park's cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, the Okegayanuma nature conservation area – one of Japan's top natural habitats for dragonflies, and the Ryuyo Insect Nature Observation Park. Local points of architectural and cultural interest include the Yanahime Shrine, Old Akamatsu House and Old Mitsuke School. One of the world's leading motorcycle companies, Yamaha Motor, is also headquartered in Iwata City. Travellers interested in learning more about local industries can visit Yamaha's Communication Plaza museum on site to see a display of motorcycles and other products created by the motor company.

Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is proud to announce its achievement of Green Globe Certification, a globally recognized standard for sustainable tourism and corporate responsibility. Photo credits: Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve This significant milestone is a testament to Mandapa's unwavering commitment to sustainability, as well as the dedication and hard work of its team in adopting environmentally conscious practices that reduce its ecological footprint and contribute positively to the local community. "We are extremely proud to announce that Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, has achieved it's first Green Globe certification in 2024. This significant milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainability and responsible luxury. As a sanctuary nestled in the heart of Ubud, Bali, we have always believed that preserving the beauty and harmony of our natural surroundings is integral to offering an authentic and meaningful experience for our guests. This certification serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team in adopting sustainable practices that not only reduce our environmental footprint but also enhance the well-being of the local community. From sustainable resource management and waste reduction initiatives to the promotion of local culture through community engagement, every step we take is aimed at creating a positive impact on both the environment and the people we serve. At Mandapa, we will continue to explore new ways to innovate, collabo rate, and lead by example in creating a more sustainable future for hospitality” - said Desy Setiawati, Hotel Manager of Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Mandapa's journey toward Green Globe certification reflects its comprehensive approach to sustainability, which includes:  Environmental Stewardship: Initiatives like waste reduction, water conservation, and renewable energy adoption are integrated into daily operations. Community Empowerment: Supporting local artisans, hiring locally, and promoting Balinese traditions through its wellness and dining programs. Guest Education: Immersive programs like the 'Disconnect to Reconnect' wellness journey encourage guests to engage with the environment mindfully. The 3 Green Achievements of Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve: Successful Resource Management and Waste Reduction Initiatives: Mandapa has implemented a series of resource-saving practices that have dramatically reduced its environmental footprint. By optimizing water usage through advanced irrigation systems and utilizing an on-site water treatment facility, the resort has reduced its reliance on external water sources. Additionally, waste management efforts have been a key focus, with the property achieving a significant reduction in waste sent to landfills through recycling programs and composting organic waste. Mandapa is committed to continuously improving its resource management practices to protect Bali's precious environment. Innovative Community Engagement and Education Programs: Mandapa's engagement with the local community is a vital component of its sustainability strategy. The resort has partnered with local villages to promote sustainable farming practices and conserve natural resources. The resort also hosts environmental education programs for local school children, teaching them about sustainable living and the importance of protecting Bali's unique ecosystem. By creating these partnerships and fostering a deep connection with the community, Mandapa is contributing to a broader cultural shift toward sustainability in the region. Green Team and Eco-Friendly Operations: Mandapa's Green Team is at the heart of its environmental efforts. The team, consisting of staff members from across the resort, is dedicated to implementing and monitoring sustainable practices throughout the property. Their efforts have led to the reduction of energy consumption through the use of energy-efficient lighting, and smart temperature control systems. Additionally, Mandapa is committed to sourcing locally produced and organic ingredients for its restaurants, ensuring minimal carbon footprint in its culinary operations. A Commitment to Sustainable Luxury Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is not only a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation but also a leader in luxury eco-tourism. The Green Globe Certification is a testament to the resort's unwavering commitment to sustainability, as it continues to innovate and set new standards in the hospitality industry. With a focus on resource management, community involvement, and eco-friendly operations, Mandapa is proud to offer guests a transformative experience that prioritizes the health of the planet and the well-being of its local communities. The certification aligns seamlessly with Mandapa's ethos as a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, where luxury and sustainability coexist harmoniously. As a beacon of responsible tourism, Mandapa continues to lead by example in redefining luxury experiences that are both meaningful and impactful. Discover more: www.MandapaReserve.com

The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua, Bali continues to set the standard for sustainable luxury, achieving remarkable progress in waste management and eco-friendly initiatives. In 2024, the resort successfully reduced landfill waste by an additional 2% compared to 2023, with only 2.44% of total operational waste sent to landfills. This outstanding achievement underscores Mulia Bali's steadfast commitment to providing a greener experience for its guests while advancing sustainability in the hospitality industry. Photo credits: Mulia Resort & Villas – Nusa Dua Building on the success of reducing landfill waste to 4.21% in 2023, this latest milestone highlights the resort's dedication to environmental stewardship and demonstrates how luxury and sustainability can seamlessly coexist. Comprehensive Waste Management for a Sustainable Future Mulia Bali adopts a holistic approach to waste management by recycling, reusing, and composting materials such as paper, glass, metal, tin, plastic, and rubber. These efforts not only minimise environmental impact but also contribute to a more sustainable environment for both guests and the local community. Plastic-Free Commitment The resort's journey towards a plastic-free environment began seven years ago, with the adoption of 100% recyclable plastic materials and biodegradable alternatives for straws and bags. Additionally, all bottled water used within the resort undergoes recycling. These initiatives align with Indonesia's national strategy for reducing plastic waste and position Mulia Bali as a leader in sustainable waste management. Advanced Water Management Mulia Bali employs state-of-the-art water treatment systems, including reverse osmosis and advanced wastewater reclamation, to optimise water usage and minimise waste. Rainwater reservoirs further support sustainable landscaping, nurturing the resort's lush gardens with minimal environmental impact. These measures align with Indonesia's progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. EarthCheck Audit Participation The resort actively participates in EarthCheck's environmental benchmarking audit, aligning its goals with global best practices. This commitment reinforces Mulia Bali's dedication to reducing carbon emissions and supporting Indonesia's sustainable tourism sector, as highlighted in the EarthCheck 2023 Annual Benchmarking and Certification Report. A Commitment to a Greener Future By reducing landfill waste to just 2.44% in 2024, Mulia Bali has set a new benchmark in sustainable hospitality. This achievement reflects the resort's dedication to preserving the environment for future generations while providing guests with an unparalleled luxury experience. Every stay at Mulia Bali celebrates the finest aspects of indulgence, seamlessly blended with environmental responsibility. As the resort looks to the future, it remains committed to advancing its sustainability goals and fostering a positive impact on the planet. For further information, please visit www.themulia.com.