Hilton Grand Vacations (Formerly Diamond Resorts) European Resorts Have Been Recognized with a “SILVER” Award by World Tourism Responsible Awards During the 2022 WTM London Event.
The awards, first launched in 2004, recognise and reward businesses and destinations that are contributing to a more sustainable and responsible tourism industry. Winners were chosen by a group of industry experts, which met online to allow for an internationally diverse panel.
WTM Rest of the World Responsible Tourism Awards 2022 – Responsible Tourism Partnership
Out of nine categories, 24 of the 30 European resorts, which were previously Diamond Brand Resorts prior to the acquisition with Hilton Grand Vacations in August 2021, submitted a nomination for “Conserving Water and Improving Water Security and Supply for Neighbours,” as the partnership with the Spanish NGO “We Are Water” has been key to achieve important sustainable and social goals.
The nomination included water savings in resorts with key indicators, standard water saving features and the linen programme with the plea “Let’s Make a Deal,” inviting owners and guests to save 16 litres of water by reusing towels and 20 litres when refusing linen change.
The nomination also covered fundraising in all 24 European resorts to help improve sanitation, water security and supply for communities in countries like Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Morocco and Madagascar, where water is scarce, and women and children walk many kilometres a day to get a few litres of water.
“We couldn’t imagine a better partner than Hilton Grand Vacations, not only committed to sustainability but also in alignment with the Foundation values,” said Carlos Garriga, Director of We Are Water Foundation. “Thanks to our collaboration, we have managed to increase awareness amongst guests and employees for a responsible use of water and, most importantly, to develop water infrastructure and sanitation for projects in India, Indonesia, Guatemala, Morocco and Madagascar where thousands of people now have a better future ahead.”
“We are extremely proud to have received this prestigious award,” said Suzana Gomercic, SVP European resort operations at Hilton Grand Vacations. “These amazing results have been achieved by our resort teams who have worked incessantly to educate our owners and guests on water use and its importance every day, and particularly during the holidays.”