Shangri-La in Oman implements use of sustainable straws

Both Shangri-La Barr al Jissah Resort & Spa and Shangri-La al Husn Resort & Spa stopped using plastic straws and replaced them with a sustainable metallic option earlier this summer, becoming the first hospitality brand in the sultanate to implement this initiative. The decision to end use of plastic straws at Shangri-La in Muscat is part of a global movement sweeping the hospitality industry.

Executive assistant manager in charge of F&B at Shangri-La Barr al Jissah Resort & Spa and Shangri-La al Husn Resort & Spa, Marco Syrbe, said, “We have all seen upsetting videos of the earth’s oceans polluted with plastic which not only harm the turtles that we here at Shangri-La Muscat promise to protect, but also endanger marine life, birds, animals which eventually impacts the food chain and our own health.

“At Shangri-La Barr al Jissah Resort & Spa, we are doing our part to make a change with a strict ban on the use of plastic straws at our resorts. By introducing metallic straws in our restaurants and bars, we have found an alternative to single-use plastic straws without compromising on the earth’s natural resources, while delivering the luxury experiences our guests deserve.” He added, “We are delighted to be part of a movement that aims to reduce quantities of plastic waste and thereby preserve the population of endangered sea turtles native to our beaches.”

As one of only five turtle nesting sites in all of Oman, the beaches of Shangri-La in Muscat welcome an average of 100 turtle nests each year. As of July, the resorts’ beaches are home to 90 nests with over 3,000 hatchlings expected to produce. Protecting the natural habits of these critically endangered sea creatures is a priority for the team at the resort.

The resorts’ Turtle Care Project aims to protect the endangered hawksbill and green turtle species native to the beaches of Oman. A dedicated turtle ranger team has been appointed to ensure the nests are sheltered from any threats and to raise awareness amongst guests and local communities on the plight of turtles through educational activities such as talks and viewings.

The Turtle Care project falls under Shangri-La’s corporate social responsibility programme Sanctuary. It focuses on Shangri-La’s Care for Nature Project, promoting the conservation and restoration of biodiversity.