Above: the Ritz-Carlton, San Juan

By Dana Niland
CJ Contributor

The Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC) has announced its certification of the Ritz Carlton, San Juan in the Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Program.

This is the fifth such certification in Puerto Rico, and the first for a resort hotel in Puerto Rico.

“We are proud to have been awarded the Sustainable Tourism Facility Certificate because our commitment to the environment remains one of the most important objectives of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company worldwide,” said Ritz-Carlton San Juan general manager Jacqueline Volkart.

In order to obtain the Sustainable Tourism Facility Certificate, the Ritz-Carlton took steps such as increasing the use of organic products in the kitchen and spa areas, establishing large-scale energy and water conservation efforts, and supporting organizations like Make-a-Wish and Soles 4 Souls.

It also promoted the works of local artists, partnered with the Arrecifes Pro Ciudad (Pro-Reef Organization), and established composting and efficient plant-management systems.

“We are convinced that sustainable tourism is currently in a great position for expansion which is they key to environmental conservation and diversification of Puerto Rico as a five-star destination,” said Ingrid Rivera Rocafort, executive director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company.