InterContinental Phuket Resort has become the first InterContinental hotel in Thailand to earn certification from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), marking a milestone for IHG Hotels & Resorts in the region. The property is now the third IHG hotel in Thailand to hold the internationally recognized credential, following audits by Control Union Certifications.
The GSTC framework assesses performance across four pillars: sustainable management, socioeconomic impact, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship. For Bjorn Courage, General Manager of InterContinental Phuket Resort, the certification validates long-term efforts by the team. “GSTC Certification is significant because it independently validates the actions our team has been building into the resort for many years,” he said.
Operational sustainability measures
At the heart of the resort’s environmental program is an Oklin Food Waste Composter that processes up to 125 kilograms of organic waste daily. The resulting nutrient-rich fertilizer is donated to local organizations and used in the resort’s own gardens, closing the loop on food waste. AI-powered monitoring systems also help culinary teams fine-tune portion sizes and inventory, reducing overproduction and waste.
Beyond the property, the resort participates in the Proud Kamala initiative, which keeps Kamala Beach clean and supports local employment. Offshore, the Ocean For All Foundation’s “License to Clean” catamaran collects marine debris, contributing to ocean health in the Andaman Sea.
Culinary and community engagement
Sustainability extends to the resort’s food and beverage operations. InterContinental Phuket sources ingredients from local farms and has developed zero-waste cocktails, demonstrating that luxury hospitality can align with environmental responsibility. The resort’s holistic approach sets a benchmark for sustainable practices in Phuket’s competitive resort market.
This certification comes as Phuket continues to attract investment in sustainable tourism. Nearby, Laguna Phuket is expanding family offerings to cater to multi-generational travelers, while RIU opened its first Thailand resort in Phuket with 504 rooms. The island’s hospitality sector is clearly prioritizing both growth and sustainability.
For travel professionals, the GSTC certification is a useful marker when advising clients on eco-conscious stays. As more properties pursue third-party validation, the industry is moving toward measurable sustainability standards rather than vague claims.
InterContinental Phuket Resort’s achievement underscores a broader trend: luxury and sustainability are no longer mutually exclusive. With independent certification, the resort offers agents and tour operators a credible option for clients seeking responsible travel without compromising on comfort.
