Sustainable Leadership Award 2024
Marugal Hotel Management and Deleite Wear: Circular, local and social economy in action.
"Sustainability is the new luxury"
- María Rondón, Sustainability & Regeneration Manager of Marugal Hotel Management
Marugal, in collaboration with Deleite Wear, has taken a firm step in redefining the concept of sustainability in the hotel sector, adopting a circular economy model that transforms its supply chain and relationship with the environment. This commitment has earned them the Sustainable Leadership award at the Traveling for Happiness2024 awards, highlighting their contribution to the regeneration of ecosystems, integration of recycled materials and support for local communities.
Sustainability as the essence of modern luxury
For the international hotel manager, sustainability is not a passing trend, but the core of its identity. "We are convinced that customer satisfaction is also related to the origin of the materials we use," explains thecompany's Sustainability & Regeneration Manager, María Rondón.
This vision is embodied in the exclusive use of 100% renewable energy and in conservation practices that range from reducing the water footprint to adopting strategies to protect the natural and architectural heritage. One of its most emblematic projects is Cap Rocat, an old fortress in Mallorca converted into a hotel where water recycling and biodiversity conservation practices are implemented.
The company's commitment to regeneration goes beyond minimizing impact, seeking to improve the ecosystems in which they operate. In each of their properties they promote local consumption and the hiring of suppliers from the region, making sustainability noticeable in every detail. "We want our clients to experience luxury that respects and regenerates the environment," says Rondón, convinced that this approach contributes to creating an emotional and lasting bond with their guests.
Cap Rocat, an old fortress in Mallorca converted into a hotel where water recycling and biodiversity conservation practices are implemented. Photo: Marugal
Circular economy in collaboration with Deleite Wear
One of the most notable initiatives of the management company, which specializes in the development, launch and operation of unique hotels, is its collaboration with Deleite Wear, a brand committed to sustainable fashion and the reuse of textiles. Thanks to this circular economy program, the waste generated in the hotels managed by Marugal is transformed into new high-quality products, which in turn are reintegrated into the hotel's operations. This partnership reduces waste while bringing added value to the hotels and the community by promoting a responsible consumption model.
"The hotel industry is a client of many industries, including fashion. We needed a project that shared our values and was aligned with the vision of our brands," explains the company's Sustainability & Regeneration Manager. With Deleite Wear, Marugal has secured a partner that understands the importance of the circular economy and works in sync with the values of sustainability and quality that define both. The results are evident: every year, tons of textile waste are transformed into reusable products.
For Marugal, luxury means integrating sustainability without compromising the customer experience. This philosophy implies that the hotels managed by Marugal offer more than just comfortable stays and high quality services, proposing an immersive experience in the local culture and environment in which the values of each destination are respected. In this sense, the commitment to sustainability and circular economy is reflected in details such as the use of local materials, collaboration with local producers and the integration of regenerative practices.
This approach is especially palpable in its gastronomic offer, which promotes local flavors and Km. 0 products, such as artisanal cheeses and fresh produce from local fishermen in Torralbenc (Menorca). Marugal extends this commitment to its guests, inviting them to join in the regeneration of the environment through initiatives such as the use of bicycles and electric transfers.
Challenges and objectives for continued sustainability
Although Marugal has made significant progress in its sustainability strategy, the company continues to look to the future with ambitious goals. By 2024, they plan to deepen the decarbonization of their operations, betting on technologies and processes that reduce CO₂ emissions at every stage of their activity. At the same time, the company is working to improve the energy efficiency of its facilities and reduce the use of single-use plastics, maintaining its commitment to low-impact tourism.
The company also aims to expand its circular economy program, integrating new recycled materials and strengthening its ties with local suppliers that share its values. "This year we have managed to have all our hotels plastic-free and to contract energy exclusively from renewable sources," says Rondón. The company is clear that its success depends on continuing to evolve and adapt to environmental challenges, always seeking innovative solutions that strengthen its commitment to sustainability.
Marugal Hotel Management and Deleite Wear are an example of how cross-industry collaboration can be a driver of positive change. Their focus on the circular economy and resource regeneration demonstrates that a sustainable business model can be profitable and viable in the long term. Through their commitment to responsible consumption, local sourcing and waste reduction, they set a new standard for the hotel sector, showing that conscious luxury is not only possible, but above all necessary.
In each of their properties they promote local consumption and the hiring of suppliers from the region. Photo: Marugal