Environmental and social responsibility in tourism has been a central focus for Marriott International in the Caribbean and Latin America for decades. This is reflected in the sustainability strategy of the company Serve 360: “Doing Good in Every Direction” and in the objectives that the hotel chain has set for protecting the environment by 2025. The company has established five environmental pillars within which its goals are framed, these are: Sustainability Certifications, Climate Action, Reduction in water consumption, Reduction in waste generation and responsible supply. All goals are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The Earth Hour event will take place on Saturday, March 23, 2024, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm local time for each destination. More than 190 countries will join this initiative, demonstrating the power of collective action. Marriott properties in Latin America will also join together to raise awareness about climate action.
Among Marriott International's notable actions in the region that contribute to achieving the company's global objectives are:
Implementation of various activities in hotels to engage guests and associates, from turning off unnecessary appliances to organizing special events.
Reducing or turning off outdoor lighting during Earth Hour, thus contributing to energy savings and raising awareness about the importance of conservation.
Turning off or dimming non-essential interior lighting, encouraging the use of candlelight in specific areas.
Informing guests about actions taken in support of Earth Hour, and encouraging them to donate their points from the renowned Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program to environmental and social organizations.
Some of the participating hotels include Aloft San Juan, Four Points by Sheraton Puebla, JW Marriott Mexico City, JW Marriott Santo Domingo, and JW Marriott Rio. As well as Renaissance Sao Paulo, La Concha Renaissance San Juan, Courtyard & Residence Inn by Marriott Barra de Tijuca, Sao Paulo Airport, and Residence Inn Isla Verde. Also, San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, Sheraton Buenos Aires, Sheraton Puerto Rico, Sheraton Santos, Park Tower: Luxury Collection and The Ocean Club: Luxury Collection.
An acoustic music session on Red2One, titled "Deck Sessions, END OF SUMMER", will take place at W Santiago. From 8:30 to 9:30, the Red2One rooftop bar will become the setting for an intimate acoustic music session. The artist in charge will offer a special performance that will highlight the importance of Earth Hour. Before and after her presentation, she will share reflections on the relevance of this event to raise awareness about caring for the planet. During the acoustic music session, it is reported that all the lights in the bar will be turned off, creating a more intimate and welcoming atmosphere.
For its part, the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman will reduce its exterior lights to a minimum during Earth Hour, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy the night sky.
At the JW Marriott Mexico City Polanco guests will be invited to turn off the lights in their rooms and join a 30-minute candlelight meditation on the Pool Terrace. This peaceful experience offers the opportunity to connect with yourself and express gratitude to Mother Earth.
While in the Lounge Bar & Sushi of the Renaissance Sao Paulo a special event will be organized where guests will be invited to turn off the lights in their rooms and join the lobby bar, where they can enjoy a special punch courtesy of the hotel with a decoration by candlelight, thus creating a cozy and relaxed atmosphere for all those present. Additionally, neon bracelets will be given away in the lobby to those who visit the bar during these hours, as a token of appreciation for their participation.
Finally, at the Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort, guests will be treated to a movie night and celebration at the Kids Club. The main entrance of the hotel will be illuminated 100% with candles, the hotel logo will be turned off, as well as the beach and pool lights. A tree will be planted in the property's leisure area and a sustainable dish will be served in the Bene and L'Etoile restaurants. The partners will also make a joint effort to clean Prainha do Vidigal.
Marriott International in the Caribbean and Latin America has nearly 500 properties located in 37 countries and territories across 25 brands of Marriott Bonvoy's more than 30 leading global brands. The company is proud to contribute to this global cause, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability and environmental protection.