New ecological hotel concepts

In the last years ecological topics and environmental consciousness are increasingly becoming major issues in the thought processes of society. The tourism industry has promptly reacted to this and developed creative concepts.Probably one of the most unusual ideas comes from Morris Architects in Houston who want to turn an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico into an ecological luxury resort.
It is planned to operate the entire resort with geothermal heating pumps, solar, wave and wind energy. On the top deck one will find the lobby, pool area with a fine sandy beach, restaurants, conference and business centre, shopping arcades, entertainment options with a casino as well as accommodation.

The luxury accommodation were previously cargo containers that have been specially converted so the most demanding guests will have the highest level of comfort. Furthermore one is able to pull them out in order to have a better view of the sea from one’s private jacuzzi.
At the base of the platform one will be able to enjoy a variety of water sport activities: surfing, jet-ski, water ski, diving centre and a marina. From here it will also be possible to of a number of different boat trips to Mexico or the Caribbean.
The philosophy a social responsibility has been a vital principle for the Banyan Tree Group for many years. Some examples being that the ingredients of the restaurants are from local ecological cultivation, local work force is employed, trained and supported as well as the traditional handicraft being preserved as it is integrated into the respective resort.

Local projects such as the breeding station for sea turtles or coral transplantations on Vabbinfaru and Ihuru (Maldives) correspond with global projects from Banyan Tree and Angsana. The latter is part of the energy project: Energy and water consumption as well as carbon emissions are to be reduced yearly – whilst maintaining the highest level of quality for the customers.

All this is bundled with Banyan Tree under the slogan „Least Disturbance“: A particular focus is placed on environmental aspects as well as assuming on social responsibility for future generations.