Sustainability Framework
At The Chill Resort & Spa Koh Chang, sustainability is integral to our design and operations. Our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) program focuses on preserving the natural beauty of Koh Chang, a national park, and creating a positive impact on our community. We incorporate sustainability into all aspects of our operations, from energy and water management to waste management and bio-control of our gardens. Our cross-functional team, comprising experts in engineering, bio-control, and waste management, ensures the effective implementation of these initiatives.
Environment
Energy Efficiency and Conservation
We have installed solar rooftop systems to meet up to 70% of our daytime electricity needs and plan to add energy storage systems. We use energy-efficient devices, including LED lights, energy-efficient AC units, and upgraded to energy efficient boilers. Energy usage is actively monitored to manage energy consumption during day and night time.
Water Management
Given the scarcity of fresh water on the island, we have invested in a comprehensive water production facility to produce fresh water and drinking water. Underground water, rainwater and fresh water from the mountains are collected in our water reservoir and processed through a fresh water production system which is used throughout the resort. Fresh water is then further processed to drinking water via a reverse-osmosis system. We have installed low-flow fixtures, conduct regular leakage checks, and encourage guests to to reuse towels and bed sheets, as well as to turn off faucets during shampoo/soap application and while brushing teeth. Waste water is fully treated onsite by our waste water management system and is not released into the ocean.
Waste Management
Our waste management practices include principles of reduce-reuse-recycle and composting. We have a compost facility to turn organic waste into nutrient-rich soil for our gardens. We practice waste separation and recycling for glass, paper, plastic, and metal, and we aim to minimize food waste through careful stock management and creative repurposing. We are moving towards a zero-plastic policy with very limited use of plastic currently.
Bio-control
Our gardens 100% pesticide-free and fungicide-free since December 2023. We use non-harmful biological control agents to manage plant diseases and invasive species, promoting rich biodiversity without harming the ecosystem. We also use organic fertilizers free of ammonia, produced from organic waste collected in Bangkok. Additionally, our gardens feature native plant species from eastern Thailand and rare species, ensuring harmony with the local landscape and climate while preserving the natural state.
Rewilding
Recognizing the importance of conserving the Tien Thale tree, a protected species in Koh Chang National Park, we have collaborated with the park authorities to help restore its population. Due to illegal excavation, these highly sought-after trees, some over 100 years old, are at risk. With permission from local authorities, we are setting up a nursery to propagate the Tien Thale tree. Once a sufficient number have been propagated, we will replant them in the park to replace those illegally removed, aiding in the conservation and regeneration of this valuable plant species.
Community Engagement
Local Sourcing and Support
We prioritize local sourcing for our food and beverage operations, purchasing fresh seafood from local fishermen and fruits from nearby farms. We provide sea-to-table experiences, sourcing sustainably-sourced catch-of-the-day directly from the fishermen next-door. We also support local artisans by using handmade furniture, artwork, and in-room accessories crafted by local communities.
Education and Outreach
We try to recruit local residents wherever possible and have active outreach programs in local communities. We engage with the local community through initiatives such as Koh Chang Trash Hero, where we participate in beach clean-ups and garbage collection. We also plan to develop our properties into learning centers for sustainable practices, sharing our knowledge on bio-control, composting, and GAP farming with other resorts and the local community.
Achievements and Awards
The Chill Resort & Spa Koh Chang was honored with the Thailand Energy Award in 2017 for Energy Efficient Buildings in the Tropical Building category and was the 1st runner-up at the ASEAN Energy Awards in the same year.