Elevating Hospitality with ESG Excellence
At Chatrium Hospitality, we believe that sustainable luxury begins with conscious choices. Our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives are rooted in responsibility, resilience and respect for our guests, our people and the planet. We are proud to share the pillars of our ongoing commitment.
We are delighted and proud to announce that Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok has officially been awarded the Green Hotel Plus Certificate for 2025! This prestigious recognition is a powerful testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship and operational excellence. This achievement is more than just a certificate; it embodies our collective mission to raise awareness of sustainability as a core value for our guests, partners, and employees. These key initiatives, driven by our dedicated colleagues, include: Solar Power: Investing in clean energy by integrating solar power into our facilities to reduce reliance on grid electricity. Detailed Waste Segregation: Implementing rigorous and detailed waste segregation protocols across all departments, significantly improving our recycling and reduction rates. EM Essence from Food Waste: Pioneering an innovative system to convert inevitable food waste into EM essence, turning a waste stream into a valuable resource for gardening applications.
We’re proud to announce that three of our Chatrium properties have been recognized for their sustainability efforts with the Green Leaf Certification.
- Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok has received the 5 Green Leaf Certification, the highest distinction for environmental excellence, and is proudly recognised as a Green Hotel Plus.
- Chatrium Sathon Bangkok has been awarded the prestigious 5 Green Leaf Certification in recognition of its outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability.
- Chatrium Grand Bangkok has earned the 4 Green Leaf Certification, highlighting the hotel’s strong dedication to eco-friendly practices and sustainable operations.
- Maitria Hotel Rama 9 A Chatrium Collection has been awarded the 4 Green Leaf Certification for its exceptional eco-friendly practices.
- Emporium Suites by Chatrium has received the 3 Green Leaf Certification, showing a strong dedication to environmental responsibility.
- Maitria Hotel Sukhumvit 18 A Chatrium Collection has received the 3 Green Leaf Certification, showing a strong dedication to environmental responsibility.
- Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi has received the 2 Green Leaf Certification, highlighting its unwavering commitment to greenery.
The Green Leaf Foundation granted these honors in recognition of our energy-saving efforts, waste reduction, and commitment to creating greener guest experiences. Through our Think First, Think Earth campaign, we’re focused on plastic-free initiatives, eco-friendly products, responsible sourcing, and meaningful community engagement. A recent CSR activity at Wat Klong Toei Nok saw our teams helping clean the temple and install solar panels to support the local community.
These certifications reflect our ongoing mission to become a leading sustainable hotel brand in Bangkok and across Thailand. We’re truly grateful and more inspired than ever to keep making a difference, one stay at a time.
We believe that true hospitality extends beyond our doors and into the hearts of the communities we call home. Chatrium is dedicated to uplifting local communities through impactful initiatives that drive real change.
Recent highlights include:
- Transforming Education in Myanmar: In Shwe Pyi Thar Township, Myanmar, we built the Narawat Monastic Education School, complete with a multi-purpose learning hall, concrete paths, and two school buildings.
- Temple Clean-Ups in Bangkok: Each year, we come together to clean and revitalize local temples near our hotels.
- Supporting Slum Child Care Klong Toey: Through funding food and education programs, we’re giving underprivileged students a chance to dream big.
- Supporting the Blind Foundation (Thailand) Empowering children with visual impairments through resources and initiatives that build confidence, develop skills, and foster independence.
- Supporting the Father Ray Foundation Providing education, career opportunities, and personal growth support for children with disabilities, ensuring a brighter future.
- Supporting Operation Smile Helping transforms lives through surgeries for children with cleft lips and palates, giving them healthier, more confident futures.
- Life-Saving Blood Donations: Partnering with the Thai Red Cross, our blood donation drives embody our commitment to saving lives.
At Chatrium Hospitality, sustainability is our way of life. Guided by our ESG philosophy and the ‘Think First, Think Earth’ program, we blend luxury with sustainability through impactful initiatives. By lowering our carbon footprint and empowering communities, we ensure every guest experience contributes to a healthier planet.
- Cage-Free Commitment: Chatrium is proud to be featured in the Cage-Free Tracker Asia among 77 other trailblazing companies. This recognition underscores our leadership in ethical and sustainable sourcing practices, ensuring a brighter future for animal welfare and the hospitality industry.
- Fighting Food Waste with SOS Thailand: We’re tackling food waste head-on, partnering with SOS Thailand to ensure surplus food reaches those who need it most.
- Empowering Local Communities with Socialgiver.com: Through the Thailand Recovery Fund campaign, we’re helping rebuild and uplift communities with every guest contribution.
- Conserving Water and Energy: From low-flow showers to energy-saving policies, we’re constantly innovating to minimize resource consumption.
- Harnessing Solar Power: Our properties are embracing solar energy through cutting-edge pipeline projects, reducing reliance on traditional power sources.
- Recycling Heat Energy: Innovative heat exchange programs repurpose energy from air conditioning systems to further reduce our environmental footprint.
- Local, Sustainable Sourcing: By partnering with eco-conscious suppliers and growing our own vegetable gardens, we’re serving guests the freshest, most sustainable ingredients.
- Greening Our Spaces: Our properties are lush with trees and plants, symbolizing our commitment to the environment. At Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao, we proudly nurture trees representing all 77 Thai provinces.
- ‘Reduce, Recycle, Reuse, Re-think, Replace’: From going paperless to donating used items to local charities, we’re embedding sustainability into everything we do.
To honour Earth Day, all Chatrium properties proudly reaffirmed their commitment to environmental sustainability through a range of meaningful initiatives under the shared theme "Green Leaf People – Planting a Greener Heart for a Sustainable World.
Organised by the respective Sustainability Committees, each property marked the occasion with unique activities that reflected their dedication to responsible hospitality. These included tree planting, candlelight displays in hotel lobbies to shine a light on sustainability, and turning off non-essential lights for one hour. Each activity served as a simple yet powerful gesture to raise awareness and encourage long-term care for the planet.
These Earth Day efforts are part of Chatrium’s ongoing “Think First, Think Earth” program, which reflects the brand’s vision to embed sustainability into every aspect of hospitality. By turning intention into action, Chatrium creates a culture of environmental responsibility that touches both guests and team members.
We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint by investing in renewable energy. Solar cell panels installed across selected areas of our properties help convert sunlight into clean electricity, lowering dependence on non renewable sources.
This shift to solar energy supports a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, decreases long term energy costs and aligns with global efforts to combat climate change. It is a visible and powerful step in our Think First Think Earth philosophy.
Every ray captured is a move toward a more sustainable and self sufficient future.
Available at:
- Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok
- Lacol Khao Yai – A Chatrium Collection
Smart Building Management for a Sustainable Future
Aligned with the “Think First, Think Earth” commitment, Chatrium Hospitality is introducing intelligent Building Management Systems (BMS) across select properties. These systems allow for real-time monitoring and control of utilities, helping to optimise energy consumption, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support preventive maintenance.By analysing data across lighting, air-conditioning and water systems, BMS technology ensures that energy is used only when necessary—maximising operational efficiency while minimising environmental impact. This innovation is a key part of Chatrium’s long-term strategy to embed sustainability into every layer of hotel operations, delivering responsible luxury without compromise.
Our saltwater pools offer a cleaner, more natural swimming experience while reducing the need for harsh chemicals. By using salt instead of traditional chlorine, we create a gentler environment for both skin and the planet.Saltwater systems require less chemical maintenance and produce fewer byproducts, supporting healthier air and water quality around the pool. This thoughtful choice reflects our Think First Think Earth philosophy, where guest wellbeing and environmental care go hand in hand. Swim in comfort. Swim with purpose.
Available at:
- Chatrium Grand Bangkok
- Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon
- Maitria Hotel Sukhumvit 18 – A Chatrium Collection
- Maitria Hotel Rama 9 – A Chatrium Collection
As part of our “Think First, Think Earth” initiative, four Chatrium properties in Bangkok have now switched to 100% LED lighting throughout all guest rooms, public areas and back-of-house spaces:
- Chatrium Grand Bangkok
- Chatrium Sathon Bangkok
- Emporium Suites by Chatrium
- Maitria Hotel Sukhumvit 18 – A Chatrium Collection
LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy and last significantly longer than traditional lighting, helping us reduce emissions, lower waste and conserve resources.From the grandeur of Chatrium Grand to the urban calm of Maitria Hotel, LED lighting enhances every space with comfort, clarity and care. Guests enjoy a seamless experience, while we quietly reduce our environmental impact.This is one of many ESG initiatives we’ve embraced to bring sustainable luxury to life — one bright idea at a time.
We proudly offer electric vehicle (EV) charging stations for our guests' convenience. Power up your EV while relaxing and recharging. Chatrium Hospitality has the 'Think First, Think Earth' program as part of our sustainability commitment. Stay with us and use our EV charging stations. You are supporting environ- mentally beneficial measures that will help protect our world for future generations.
Available at:
- Chatrium Grand Bangkok
- Lacol Khao Yai – A Chatrium Collection
To further elevate operational efficiency, advanced waste compactor technology has been introduced to optimise transportation and reduce emissions associated with waste collection.
This collaboration reflects Chatrium Hospitality’s ongoing dedication to a more sustainable future, where thoughtful innovation supports both operational excellence and a long-term vision for a circular economy.
Cleanliness is essential, but how we achieve it matters just as much. Across our kitchens, housekeeping and laundry operations, we use Ecolab chemical solutions that prioritise safety, efficiency and environmental care.
Formulated for high performance, these products help reduce water and energy use while maintaining hygiene excellence. Ecolab’s smart packaging design further supports sustainability goals through concentrated formulas, reduced plastic use and improved recyclability. This commitment to cleaner operations reflects our Think First Think Earth philosophy, where every product, process and package is chosen with purpose.
From welcome notes to in-room guides, the printed materials guests see and touch are created with intention. Using recycled paper for all guest-facing collaterals helps reduce environmental impact while maintaining the elegance and clarity our guests expect.This simple choice supports sustainable resource use, reduces waste and reflects our commitment to thoughtful hospitality. Each piece is carefully crafted to align with our Think First Think Earth philosophy, where even printed communication becomes a part of our environmental journey.Sustainability is not just in what we say. It is in how we choose to say it.
Digital tools play an important role in our journey toward more sustainable operations. By shifting to online storage for documents, notes and files, we reduce the need for printed materials and lower our overall environmental impact.Cloud based systems help streamline collaboration, improve accessibility and eliminate unnecessary paper waste. Information can be shared, updated and retrieved in real time without relying on physical copies or storage space.This simple yet effective change reflects our Think First Think Earth philosophy, where technology supports both operational excellence and environmental care.
At Chatrium Grand Bangkok, every property features an intelligent Guest Room Management System that blends comfort, efficiency and automation. This system integrates advanced HVAC and lighting control with real-time sensor technology to ensure a consistently pleasant environment for our guests while promoting energy conservation.
Each guest room includes
PIR Motion Sensors
These detect human presence by comparing temperature differences between moving guests and the ambient space. When motion is detected, the lighting and air-conditioning systems are activated or maintained to deliver a welcoming atmosphere.
Magnetic Door Sensors
These monitor whether the guest room door is open or closed. When the door is opened and then closed, the system responds by activating Welcome Mode. Lighting turns on and the air-conditioning is restored to guest-friendly settings.
System Functionality
Unoccupied Mode
When no motion is detected for more than ten minutes, the system enters an energy-saving state. Lights are turned off and the air-conditioning is adjusted to a higher temperature with reduced fan speed to conserve energy.
Occupied Mode
When a guest enters and closes the door, the system activates lighting and sets the air-conditioning to a comfortable temperature. Any motion or interaction with in-room switches or the thermostat resets the internal timer to ensure continuous comfort. If the room remains inactive for ten minutes, the system returns to energy-saving settings but will immediately resume full function when movement is detected again.
This intelligent automation is part of our commitment to gracious living and mindful hospitality, providing a refined experience that is both comfortable and sustainable.
At Chatrium Grand Bangkok, innovation meets responsibility. With the introduction of Aiello, our in-room voice AI assistant, we are reimagining luxury to be not only seamless and personalised, but also environmentally conscious.Aiello allows guests to control room settings, request services and access hotel information — all hands-free and paperless. By reducing the need for printed materials and minimising unnecessary energy use, this smart assistant helps us lower our carbon footprint while enhancing guest comfort.From turning off lights with a simple voice command to requesting amenities without a phone call, Aiello supports more efficient operations and a quieter, greener stay.
Crafted from sustainably sourced wood, our guest key cards are a thoughtful alternative to traditional plastic. Lightweight, durable and biodegradable, each card is designed to reduce environmental impact without compromising function or style.By replacing plastic with renewable materials, we help lower waste and support a more circular approach to hospitality. This small gesture reflects our Think First Think Earth philosophy, where every detail, even the one in your hand, moves us closer to a greener future.Sustainability begins the moment you check in.
From cotton buds to shower gel, every bathroom amenity is selected with both comfort and responsibility in mind. Our dry and wet amenities are made using biodegradable packaging and responsibly sourced materials to reduce waste without compromising quality. Whether it is a softly wrapped comb or a carefully dispensed shampoo, each item reflects our Think First Think Earth philosophy. By choosing more sustainable alternatives, we lower our environmental footprint while maintaining the elevated experience our guests deserve.Even the smallest essentials can leave a lasting impression when guided by purpose.
Every item we offer carries intention, including the laundry bags placed in our rooms. Made from recycled paper, these bags help reduce reliance on virgin materials and support a circular approach to resource use.Durable, functional and eco conscious, our recycled paper laundry bags are part of our ongoing effort to minimise waste and champion sustainable alternatives. This small but meaningful choice reflects our Think First Think Earth philosophy, where each detail is designed with care for the planet and future generations.Sustainability is not just seen. It is felt in the everyday.
Sustainability begins from the ground up. At Chatrium Hospitality, even the slippers we offer are chosen with care for both our guests and the planet. That is why we provide natural rubber slippers made from responsibly sourced biodegradable materials. Elegant, comfortable and plastic free, our slippers are crafted to reduce environmental harm while enhancing your stay. Unlike synthetic alternatives, natural rubber breaks down over time, helping to divert waste from landfills and reduce our carbon footprint. It is a thoughtful amenity that reflects our Think First Think Earth commitment, where every step no matter how small is a step toward sustainable luxury. When you walk with us, you walk lighter on the planet.
Sustainability is woven into every aspect of the guest experience, including the pen placed thoughtfully in each room. Made from recycled paper, this simple writing tool helps reduce waste and supports responsible use of natural resources.By using pens crafted from recycled materials, we minimise our environmental footprint while offering a functional and eco-friendly amenity. It is a conscious choice that reflects our Think First Think Earth philosophy, reminding us that meaningful change begins with everyday actions.Each word written is a quiet step toward a more sustainable future.
We are proud to offer Nordaq drinking water as part of our commitment to sustainable hospitality. Served in refillable glass bottles, Nordaq is filtered and purified on-site to the highest standards, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles.This innovative water solution helps reduce transport emissions, minimise packaging waste and preserve the natural minerals that enhance flavour. It is a conscious choice that supports our Think First Think Earth philosophy while delivering a crisp, refreshing experience to every guest.
Available at:
- Chatrium Grand Bangkok
As part of our dedication to responsible hospitality, we proudly serve Vivaree drinking water. Bottled in elegant glass and produced on-site through an advanced purification process, Vivaree offers exceptional quality while reducing reliance on single-use plastics.By sourcing and bottling water within the hotel, this approach helps lower carbon emissions from transportation and significantly cuts down on packaging waste. The result is a naturally balanced, smooth-tasting water that reflects our Think First Think Earth philosophy and enhances every guest experience with mindful refinement.
Available at:
- Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok
Every element of the in-room experience is chosen with care, including the TWG tea sachets presented for your enjoyment. Made from delicate, hand-sewn silk, each sachet reflects a blend of timeless elegance and thoughtful sourcing.TWG selects its silk materials responsibly, ensuring that both quality and environmental consideration remain at the heart of each cup. This refined detail supports our Think First Think Earth philosophy, where even the quiet ritual of tea is part of a more mindful and sustainable stay.
At Chatrium, we offer 100 percent compostable straws as part of our commitment to reducing single use plastic and promoting sustainable alternatives. Made from plant based materials, these straws naturally break down under proper composting conditions, making them safer for the environment. This small yet meaningful switch supports our Think First Think Earth philosophy, where even the simplest details are chosen with care for both people and the planet.
Every detail matters, even the ones you take with you. That’s why Chatrium Hospitality has replaced single-use plastic cutlery and stirrers with sustainably sourced wooden alternatives for all takeaway orders.Elegant, biodegradable and plastic free, our wooden cutlery and stirrers help reduce landfill waste and support a more circular economy. It’s a simple switch with meaningful impact, aligned with our “Think First, Think Earth” philosophy and our commitment to responsible hospitality.Whether you’re enjoying your meal in room, at the office or on the go, you can feel good knowing your takeaway choice supports a cleaner, greener future.
Our approach to dining is guided by a deep respect for people and the planet. That is why we choose ingredients from trusted local suppliers who share our values of quality, sustainability and care.Sourcing locally allows us to serve seasonal produce at its freshest while reducing transport emissions and supporting regional farmers and artisans. It is a choice that nourishes our guests and uplifts nearby communities.Rooted in our Think First Think Earth philosophy, every dish tells a story of connection, responsibility and authentic taste.
Chatrium Grand Bangkok embraced green living through our Sprout to Supper green activity, an initiative designed to connect our team with nature while fostering environmental awareness and collaboration.By planting and tending edible greens, our staff members take part in a meaningful act that promotes sustainability, teamwork and pride in eco conscious hospitality. These small efforts create lasting impact and reflect our Think First Think Earth philosophy in a living and growing way.It is a simple gesture that sends a powerful message about our shared commitment to the environment.
Available at:
- Chatrium Grand Bangkok
- Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok
- Chatrium Sathon Bangkok
- Emporium Suites by Chatrium
- Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi
- Chatrium Niseko Japan
At Chatrium Hospitality, we believe every cup of coffee or tea should reflect care for both people and the planet. That is why we proudly serve selections from JDE, a global leader in sustainable beverage solutions. From responsible sourcing to eco conscious packaging, JDE supports traceable supply chains and farming communities around the world. Many blends are Rainforest Alliance certified, helping to protect ecosystems and improve local livelihoods. Aligned with our Think First Think Earth philosophy, this partnership allows us to offer premium coffee and tea that guests can enjoy with purpose. Good taste begins with thoughtful choices. And every sip moves us forward.
What begins as a fresh cup of coffee continues as nourishment for the earth. At Chatrium Hospitality, used coffee grounds are collected and repurposed as natural fertiliser for our gardens and green spaces.Rich in nutrients and free from harmful chemicals, coffee grounds help improve soil health, retain moisture and support plant growth. This simple yet effective practice reduces organic waste and reflects our Think First Think Earth philosophy.Every brew has a second life, helping our landscapes thrive while closing the loop on daily sustainability.
At Chatrium Grand Bangkok, our laundry operations use low temperature washing methods to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact without compromising cleanliness or fabric care.By washing at lower temperatures, we significantly reduce electricity, water and gas usage. This practice also helps lower greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to the reduction of our overall carbon footprint.Aligned with our Think First Think Earth philosophy, every load of laundry becomes part of a more efficient and responsible approach to hospitality. Clean is not only about appearance. It is about thoughtful action behind the scenes.
Empowering Our Teams Through Knowledge Sharing Workshops at Chatrium Hospitality At Chatrium Hospitality, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and operational excellence. Recently, our General Managers and Department Heads at Chatrium Grand Bangkok participated in an insightful knowledge sharing workshop with Kärcher and Ecolab, aimed at enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and innovation across our operations. During the session, Kärcher showcased how their advanced machines optimize performance in various operational areas, enabling our teams to work smarter and more efficiently. Meanwhile, Ecolab shared their expertise on water safety, sustainable practices, and their Low Temperature Washing program. This program has already delivered impressive results, helping Chatrium Grand Bangkok achieve savings of over THB 328,000 in just 2.5 months. These tangible outcomes highlight the importance of empowering our teams through knowledge sharing workshops. By creating opportunities for collaboration and the exchange of expertise, we ensure that best practices are adopted across all levels of our hotels—strengthening both operational efficiency and service quality. At Chatrium Hospitality, we remain proud to host such initiatives, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and the professional growth of our team members. By continuously investing in our people, we not only enhance guest experiences but also set new benchmarks in operational excellence.
At Chatrium Hospitality, we believe that an inclusive and supportive workplace empowers individuals to thrive. We proudly celebrate the remarkable women across our organisation whose leadership, dedication and compassion contribute to a culture of collaboration and growth. Through mentorship, equal opportunity and a commitment to professional development, we strive to create an environment where women are supported to build confidence, develop their talents and advance in their careers. By fostering encouragement and opportunity at every level, we strengthen not only our teams but the communities we serve. At Chatrium Hospitality, we believe that when we support one another, we all grow stronger. Together, we embrace our shared philosophy to #GiveToGain. In recognition of International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to building a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.
We are Chatrium Hotels & Resorts, committed to making responsible choices for the environment and our communities.
- Our Sustainability Vision: At Chatrium Hospitality, we envision a world where hospitality and sustainability coexist harmoniously, creating memorable experiences for our guests while preserving the environment for future generations. Our vision is to be a leader in green and sustainable hospitality, setting new standards for responsible luxury and fostering a global culture of mindful travel.
- Our sustainability Mission: Our mission at Chatrium Hospitality is to deliver exceptional and eco-conscious hospitality experiences that go beyond the expectations of our guests. We are committed to integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of our operations, from design and construction to daily hotel activities. Through innovation, collaboration, and a dedication to environmental responsibility, we strive to minimize our ecological footprint while maximizing the positive impact on local communities.
- To our planet: We implement comprehensive responsible resource management across our operations by actively reducing consumption of energy and water, and waste reduction, reuse, and recycling to minimise our environmental footprint.
- To our people: We support local economies and champion the protection of local culture and heritage, while ensuring fair wages and equal opportunities for all staff.
- To our principles: We operate with full legal compliance, transparency, and ethical respect for local rights and heritage.
Dos:
- Remove your shoes before entering your local homes, or any temple buildings; look for a pile of shoes at the entrance as a cue.
- Dress modestly in public areas and temples; ensure your shoulders and knees are covered (swimwear is strictly for the beach or pool).- Return the "Wai" (the prayer-like gesture) with a smile if a staff member greets you this way, as it shows mutual respect.
- Always say "Khop khun" (thank you) to hotel staff, drivers, and servers; expressing gratitude is highly valued in Thai culture and fosters a positive atmosphere during your stay. - Reuse towels and linens by participating in the "Think first think earth Let's save It" programme to signal you don't need a daily change, saving significant water and energy.
- Practise proper waste segregation by using the designated bins for recyclables and general waste.
- Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce the massive amount of single-use plastic waste.
- Support local artisans by buying souvenirs from community markets rather than mass-produced to ensure your money stays local.
- Appreciate and protect native plants; avoiding the removal of flowers or seeds helps maintain the micro-ecosystems that support urban wildlife.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen (mineral-based like zinc oxide) before swimming to protect fragile coral reefs from toxic chemicals like oxybenzone.
Don’ts:
- Don't touch anyone’s head, including children; it is considered the most sacred part of the body and touching it is a major taboo.
- Don't point your feet at people, Buddha images, or the King’s portrait; feet are seen as the lowest part of the body. - Don't disrespect the Monarchy; avoid making jokes or negative comments about the Royal Family, as it is both offensive and carries legal penalties.
- Don't smoke or use cannabis in prohibited areas; smoking is banned on beaches and in public spaces, and cannabis use is restricted to private areas and licensed venues only.
- Don't leave the air conditioning on when you leave your room; cooling an empty room is the single biggest waste of energy in Thai hotels.
- Don't dispose of sanitary products or wet wipes down the toilet; please use the provided bins to prevent blockages and protect local water systems.
- Don't buy illegal animal products; avoid purchasing ivory, tortoise shell, or items made from protected species, as these support poaching and are illegal to export.
- Don't feed wildlife, especially monkeys or fish; this disrupts their natural diet, makes them aggressive, and causes ecological imbalance.
- Don't take shells or coral from the beach; it is illegal to export these, and removing them deprives the ecosystem of vital calcium and habitat.
Dos:
- Remove both shoes AND socks before entering any pagoda or monastery grounds; you must be completely barefoot as a sign of ultimate religious respect.
- Dress with high modesty; ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. A "Longyi" (Burmese sarong) is highly recommended and widely appreciated by locals in the sacred Shwedagon area.
- Use "Mingalaba" (the auspicious greeting) with a gentle bow of the head; it fosters a warm connection with locals and shows respect for Burmese traditions.
- Use both hands (or your right hand supported by your left) when giving or receiving items, especially money; this is a sign of politeness and sincerity.
- Reuse towels and linens by participating in the "Think first think earth Let's save It" programme to signal you don't need a daily change, saving significant water and energy.
- Practise proper waste segregation by using the designated bins for recyclables and general waste.
- Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce the massive amount of single-use plastic waste.
- Support local artisans by buying souvenirs from community markets rather than mass-produced to ensure your money stays local.
- Appreciate and protect native plants; avoiding the removal of flowers or seeds helps maintain the micro-ecosystems that support urban wildlife.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen (mineral-based like zinc oxide) before swimming to protect fragile coral reefs from toxic chemicals like oxybenzone.
Don’ts:
- Don't point your feet at the Shwedagon Pagoda or any Buddha images when sitting; always tuck your legs behind you or sit in a cross-legged position that hides your soles.
- Don't touch a Monk’s robes or a person’s head; the head is the most sacred part of the body, and religious figures must be treated with physical distance and respect.
- Don't take photographs or videos of security personnel, checkpoints, or government buildings; this is strictly prohibited for security reasons and can lead to the confiscation of your device or legal questioning.
- Don't leave the air conditioning on when you leave your room; cooling an empty room is the single biggest waste of energy in Thai hotels.
- Don't dispose of sanitary products or wet wipes down the toilet; please use the provided bins to prevent blockages and protect local water systems.
- Don't buy illegal animal products; avoid purchasing ivory, tortoise shell, or items made from protected species, as these support poaching and are illegal to export.
- Don't feed wildlife, especially monkeys or fish; this disrupts their natural diet, makes them aggressive, and causes ecological imbalance.
- Don't take shells or coral from the beach; it is illegal to export these, and removing them deprives the ecosystem of vital calcium and habitat.
Dos:
- Remove your shoes when entering ski lodge, ryokan, private home, or certain temples; use the provided slippers, but remember to remove those before stepping on tatami mats.
- Master the art of sorting waste; Japan has a highly sophisticated recycling system. Follow the detailed icons on bins for PET bottles, cans, and combustible waste.
- Carry a small "trash bag" with you; public bins are rare in Japanese cities. Carrying your litter until you reach your hotel helps keep the streets pristine.
- Practice "Shizuka-ni" (Quietness) on public transport; keep your voice low and switch your phone to "manner mode" to respect the shared social environment.
- Reuse towels and linens by participating in the "Think first think earth Let's save It" programme to signal you don't need a daily change, saving significant water and energy.
- Shower thoroughly before entering an Onsen (hot spring); this is a vital hygiene ritual to keep the communal spring water clean for everyone.
- Support "Omiyage" culture by purchasing regional specialties (Meibutsu) from local farmers and shops, ensuring your tourism spend supports rural economies.
- Utilize the excellent public transport network; Japan’s trains and buses are world-class. Choosing them over private taxis drastically lowers your carbon footprint.
- Appreciate and protect native plants; avoiding the removal of flowers or seeds helps maintain the micro-ecosystems that support urban wildlife.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen (mineral-based like zinc oxide) before swimming to protect fragile coral reefs from toxic chemicals like oxybenzone.
Don’ts:
- Don't eat or drink while walking; it is considered impolite and increases the risk of littering. Sit down or stand near the vending machine to finish your snack.
- Don't use excessive water at the Onsen; turn off the tap while lathering to respect the local natural spring resources.
- Don't enter a hot spring or public bath if you have visible tattoos without checking the policy first; many traditional venues still restrict tattoos, though "tattoo cover stickers" are increasingly available.
- Don't leave the "Washlet" (electronic bidet) or heated seat on at maximum settings when not in use; adjusting these to eco-mode saves significant electricity.
- Don't disturb the Sakura (cherry blossoms) or autumn leaves; shaking trees for photos damages the health of these culturally significant plants.
- Don't buy illegal animal products; avoid purchasing ivory, tortoise shell, or items made from protected species, as these support poaching and are illegal to export.
- Don't feed wildlife, especially monkeys or fish; this disrupts their natural diet, makes them aggressive, and causes ecological imbalance.
- Don't take shells or coral from the beach; it is illegal to export these, and removing them deprives the ecosystem of vital calcium and habitat.