AccorHotels introduces two projects as part of its global Plant for the Planet programme: the planting of fruit trees in and around local farms of Arabica “Gayo” coffee specialty from Takengon, Aceh, Sumatra and a coastal regeneration project at Pejarakan, northwest coast of Bali.   

Garth Simmons, Chief Operating Officer of AccorHotels Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore said, “Through Plant For The Planet, we are working hand-in-hand with employees, customers, and local communities, to support these projects as our action for positive hospitality and to foster a more positive economy that is human-centric and planet-centric."

Plant for the Planet is funded through half of the savings made on laundry costs, when guests staying several nights choose to reuse their towels. To date, nearly 6 million trees have been planted and the Group is aiming to plant 10 million trees by 2021.

Planting of fruit trees in and around local farms of Arabica “Gayo” coffee specialty from Takengon, Aceh, Sumatra

Since 2016 AccorHotels’ Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia properties have supported the planting of native trees of the area with coffee farmers in Takengon, Central Aceh District, Sumatra in partnership with PUR Projet*.

All the trees planted provide economic and practical benefits to the famers through their fruit production and commercially viable timber, including medicinal and beauty products. These trees are integrated into coffee farms as shade trees in agroforestry systems.

In addition, trees providing shade will improve the coffee quality, enrich soil fertility and aid in preventing pests on the farms, thereby helping to reduce the famers’ dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Shade trees prevent soil erosion and protect crops from naturally-occurring events. Besides producing fruits and timber, these trees also protect and improve the coffee productivity. The project ensures the coffee quality and availability while increasing diversified income sources for farmers and their families. Guests can enjoy a cup of Gayo coffee in the restaurant or bar of select AccorHotels in the future.Coastal Regeneration at Pejarakan – Northwest coast of Bali

This holistic project operated by PUR Projet* with funding support from AccorHotels’ properties in Bali, Lombok, Sulawesi and East Java aims to restore coastal ecosystems by rebuilding coral reefs, preserving and restoring mangrove habitats and planting fruit trees with local farmers. This mangrove planting project in the coastal areas of Northwest Bali aims to improve soil retention, reduce soil erosion and runoff and improve water quality with immediate positive impact on coral health and coastal ecosystems, while providing alternative income sources for villagers.

Operating for 25 years in Indonesia, AccorHotels has over 100 hotels in Indonesia and is committed to making a positive contribution to the hospitality and tourism industry in the country, as well as dynamically strengthening its commitment to the environment and local community.

Plant for the Planet is part of the Group’s international sustainable development program, Planet 21. 

* PUR Projet is a social business dedicated to regenerating ecosystems worldwide and fighting climate change through farmer empowerment and strengthening supply chains. This approach is called insetting. For more information, visit www.purprojet.com.