Posted: December 4th 2015. 5:21am CST
Chabil Mar Resort in Placencia Receives Green Globe Certification
By Larry Waight: The Chabil Mar resort on the Placencia peninsula has been awarded Green Globe certification, an international distinction given to prestigious resorts around the world for commitment to sustainable eco-tourism practices.
“This has already been a banner year for us at Chabil Mar, so being notified of our Green Globe certification was like icing on a cake,” said the resort’s Marketing Manager Larry France. “This is no lightweight designation. It’s given only to those in the tourism industry practicing the highest levels of sustainability. At Chabil Mar, we take seriously the beautiful environment surrounding us and we are eager to help with global initiatives that keep the planet pristine for future generations.”
France said people often think it’s impossible to balance luxury with conservation and sustainability, but Chabil Mar, he says, is proof that not only can this be done, but done in such a way that visitors are enthusiastic to return for first-class hospitality and service. “We’re proud of our efforts and we intend to keep up our commitment to sustainability in every way possible,” added France.
To be certified by Green Globe, applicants must meet 44 core criteria and fulfill 380 compliance indicators. Only those able to document their achievements, improvements and green efforts are eligible to be awarded Green Globe certification.
“Receiving this designation is just a first stop for Chabil Mar,” explained France. The resort will be reviewed twice per year by third-party independent auditors to ensure the resort maintains its promise to remain as ecologically responsible as it is tourist-centric.
“From our lush tropical gardens to kayaks, paddle boards and bicycles we provide so guests can travel from place to place without expending carbon emissions. Our green earth commitment has become a priority for us,” France emphasized.
As the only guest-exclusive resort on the Placencia Peninsula, Chabil Mar has undertaken unusual measures to promote sustainability, including choosing suite furnishings decorated with locally-grown Belizean hardwoods from trees that are regularly replenished.
In addition to being awarded Green Globe certification, Chabil Mar resort is the recipient of numerous awards on a peninsula that is no stranger to worldwide notoriety: Placencia was named “Leading Beach Destination” at the 2015 World Travel Awards held in Bogota, Columbia and Chabil Mar’s accomplishments include topping the TripAdvisor award categories for nine years and a “Choice for Luxury” designation by Fodor’s.