16 December 2021 / Climate Action / 3 Min Read

First Climate Positive Hotel Brand in the World

INKATERRA Becomes the First Ever Climate Positive Hotel Brand in the World

At a time when hotels are working hard to implement eco-friendly initiatives and be more sustainable, Inkaterra Hotels has managed to achieve a rare feat — become the first ever “climate positive” hotel brand in the world. 

Green Initiative Certification

After measuring Inkaterra’s CO₂ footprint, elaborate mitigation plan with a 5% per year reduction target by 2030 and offset, Green Initiative — certification company — declared the Lima, Peru-based ecotourism company as Climate Positive.

This certification means that:

“any activity that furthers the achievement of carbon neutrality, provides an environmental benefit by removing additional carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.” 

The announcement

Coincided with the 2021 Climate Change Conference (COP 26). This certification comes as a validation of Inkaterra’s 46 years of efforts. By placing scientific research, biodiversity conservation and sustainability at the very core of its business.

Inkaterra has pioneered ecotourism in Peru since 1975. As quoted by Inkaterra Founder and President Jose Koechlin and Head of Content Gabriel Meseth.

For us, hospitality is a means to our end, which is sustainable development. Therefore, we work under a holistic approach where we produce scientific research as a basis for biodiversity conservation and the wellbeing of local communities.

Jose Koechlin and Gabriel Meseth told HotelsMag. 

Inkaterra’s plans to achieve the climate positive status. This includes Peru’s first land concession for research and ecotourism purposes at Madre de Dios region of the Amazon rainforest. The region has been sustainably managed by Inkaterra, since 1978. 

Inkaterra

The company established three “eco-lodges” inspired by local architecture. These were built with native materials, and developed several initiatives to restore carbon sinking capacity and conserve biodiversity.

In addition, Inkaterra has a goal to restore more than 5,000 hectares by 2025. Which will be achieved in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution and Forest Friends.

Company efforts have been conserving Peru’s biodiversity and wellbeing of local communities. And this, for more than 40 years.

“We are encouraging conservation and carbon free travel through the international exhibition ‘Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru.’ It is the most innovative strategy to promote tourism and investments in Peru.”

“The natural environment and native cultures are our most precious resources. Their conservancy is the only way to ensure the future of travel.”

Jose Koechlin, Inkaterra Founder and President