Sunset at the Palms, an all-inclusive, adults-only resort in Negril, Jamaica, was recently recertified by Green Globe, an international organization that challenges hotels and resorts, tour businesses, convention centers, golf courses and hotel suppliers to uphold the highest standards of sustainability.
Recognized in more than 80 countries around the world, the Green Globe Standard consists of 44 core criteria that are continually reviewed and updated to ensure they reflect the most comprehensive expectations from its members. The criteria are organized into such key themes as sustainable management, social/economic impact, cultural heritage, and the environment.
Certification hinges on not only the member in question adhering to Green Globe standards, but also that their entire supply chain of vendors and partners meet specific expectations. As part of the program, members work with independent auditors who confirm that Green Globe standards are continually being achieved. In short, receiving certification is an honor; maintaining certification is an ongoing challenge for a business to be the best it can be.
Sunset at the Palms is unique among all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, choosing to preserve a very natural environment rich with flora and fauna instead of relying on the usual formula of concrete and stucco. Guests regularly comment on the resort’s landscaping, which allows them to appreciate such natural wonders as tropical flowers and several species of hummingbird in addition to enjoying the resort’s clean, white sand beach. The resort, its staff and its guests are fully committed to protecting the environment, which is part of what enabled Sunset at the Palms to achieve Green Globe status.
The resort is committed to using safe pesticides and cleaning products, naturally derived bath amenities and LED lightbulbs. It also follows specific rules about disposing of refuse. Kitchen refuse is sent to a local pig and goat farmer, for example, to eliminate waste while keeping local livestock fed. In exchange, the farmer provided Sunset at the Palms with a goat named Betty, who joined the groundskeeping crew by tending the resort’s acreage in the most natural and genuine way practiced by generations of Jamaicans. Since Betty came to the resort in 2017, the hotel’s herd has grown to include a mate and offspring. The resort often gifts new offspring to notable staff members, who can begin or expand their own herds at home, as part of its staff appreciation program.
Though it may begin with respecting and protecting natural resources, Green Globe certification doesn’t end there. Sunset at the Palms is also committed to caring for its community in Negril; hiring local residents for management positions; purchasing local goods and services whenever possible; and incorporating local culture into its entertainment, excursions and culinary offerings.
Sunset at the Palms’ commitment to sustainable excellence has been an ongoing mission from its beginning. In a previous incarnation, when Sunset at the Palms was called Negril Cabins—nearly 30 years ago—it was the first property in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean to receive Green Globe certification. Today there are just 14 hotels and resorts in Jamaica to bear this distinction.
