Hotel Barahi Kathmandu receives TOFTigers certification for sustainable practices

KATHMANDU: Travel Operators for Tigers (TOFTigers) has awarded Hotel Barahi Kathmandu a certification for excellence in sustainable practices. Valid from September 2024 to August 2027, the certification recognises the hotel's commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

According to General Manager Roshan Sapkota, the hotel received the certification as an 'Outstanding Practice Accommodation Provider' after evaluation based on various criteria.

The hotel achieved remarkable scores in four key criteria of TOFTigers' eco-footprint rating, which acknowledged its moderate environmental impact and effective integration of environmental and social considerations into its operations, alongside well-executed decision-making processes and programme management.

TOFTigers' evaluation focused on several factors. The first criterion assessed social, environmental, and economic aspects, including nature education, construction and interior design, local programme participation, adherence to environmental laws, and training. The hotel is rated highly in all these areas.

The second criterion examined the hotel's environmental management, specifically its practices in water conservation, waste management, energy savings, and safety standards. The hotel was commended for effectively addressing these issues.

The third criterion evaluated the hotel's contribution to the local community, including fair wages, the involvement of local labour, the promotion of local skills and cuisine, and the consumption of local products.

Likewise, the fourth assessment covered socio-economic practices, including corporate social responsibilities and promoting local craftsmanship and skills.

The evaluation highlighted the hotel's extensive efforts in sustainability, including the use of plastic-free bottles, biodegradable materials, and waste segregation systems. The hotel's adherence to environmental laws, incorporation of eco-friendly materials, promotion of green spaces, accessibility for differently-abled individuals, and support for local agricultural products were also recognised.

Additionally, the hotel's commitment to cultural preservation, skill development, staff training, and social responsibility initiatives was noted. Efforts in water conservation, cleanliness, water reuse, energy-saving measures, and the use of electric vehicles further demonstrated its eco-conscious approach. The evaluation also acknowledged the hotel's focus on women's empowerment, compliance with safety standards, and the purchase, use, and promotion of local products. Importantly, TOFTigers considered the allocation of profits to social responsibility programmes as part of its overall rating.

The hotel has also launched impactful initiatives, such as donation drives for orphanages, cleanup campaigns at culturally significant UNESCO heritage sites, and partnerships with organisations like the Red Cross and Rotary Club to support health campaigns.

In addition to earning the prestigious TOFTigers certification, Hotel Barahi Kathmandu recently received the Gold Award for South Asia's Best New Hotel from the South Asia Travel Awards (SATA) 2024 and an 'A' grade in food safety from the Food Technology and Quality Control Department of Nepal.