Sustainability

We are committed to carrying out all processes involved in the functioning and operation of our company in a sustainable manner with respect to the environment and local society. This implies that all our practices and actions are carried out without endangering the resources available to future generations to meet their needs.

To this end, we have established policies and saving measures that define the actions of our company.

Commitment to Tourism and Social Sustainability

At Auténtico Hotel, we believe sustainability is not a choice but a commitment.

Situated in La Sabana, San José—one of Costa Rica’s most iconic areas—we work every day to ensure our operations reflect respect for nature, local culture, and the well-being of future generations.
From efficient resource management to supporting nearby communities, every aspect of our hotel is designed to minimize our environmental footprint and promote conscious travel. We encourage recycling, use biodegradable products, prioritize local suppliers, and foster a culture of environmental stewardship among our staff and guests.
Staying with us means becoming an active participant in the movement toward a more balanced and responsible world.

Welcome to an authentically sustainable experience.

Policies

Sustainability Policy

Auténtico Hotel is committed to conducting its operations based on sustainable tourism criteria, promoting the health of the natural, cultural, and socio-economic environment, making proper use of current resources, and safeguarding them for future generations.

Purchasing Policy

Acquire goods and services from responsible suppliers, preferably located in the Greater Metropolitan Area. This way, resources are not consumed in transporting products from city to city. Suppliers must be respectful of the environment and social values.
Purchase organic vegetables produced without pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
Do not buy agrochemicals for the garden.
Avoid using insecticides whenever possible.
Check product packaging to ensure it has a symbol indicating it is recyclable.
Look for the recyclable symbol on toilet paper to ensure it does not come entirely from whole trees.
Avoid buying heavily packaged products. Purchase those that come in refillable, returnable, or reusable containers.
Do not use detergents containing chlorine, phosphates, or surfactants, as they damage the ozone layer.
Buy concentrated products.
Purchase modern appliances and devices with energy-efficient technologies.
Do not buy furniture or other items made from wood of endangered species.
Buy bedding made from organic cotton; avoid synthetic materials.
Use transportation services that compensate, mitigate, or reduce their greenhouse gas emissions or ecological footprint.
We commit to using species for food preparation that are not endangered, vulnerable, threatened, or disrespected during closed seasons or do not comply with recommended fishing sizes.
All printed, promotional, and other materials used by the organization will utilize environmentally friendly, low-impact materials. Additionally, it is recommended to use paper on both sides to maximize its lifespan.
The purchase of disposable and consumable goods is moderate, and the business actively seeks ways to reduce their use.

Employee Policy

Staff are obliged and responsible for complying with the sustainability policies of the organization and modeling impeccable behavior.
Staff must respect and cultivate values and beliefs that strengthen Costa Rican idiosyncrasy, especially in the specific communities where they operate.
Staff must respect the different ethnicities, religions, and customs of tourists, service providers, plant staff, and other people and officials.
Staff must attend training and update programs that allow them to commit to implementing good practices that support sustainability and its continuous improvement for social and environmental benefit.
Staff must ensure compliance with manuals and procedures established for the effective and efficient use of energy, water resources, solid waste treatment, and any other manual that strengthens the provision of services under sustainability criteria.

Other Policies

Auténtico Hotel is diligently committed to continuous improvement processes in all operational and functional aspects of the company sustainably.
It commits to respecting all local, national, and international legislation relevant to tourism practice.
Environmental alteration cases of any kind (gas, liquid, solid emissions, noise, odors, etc.) known will be reported to the appropriate authorities.
Natural coexistence between the client and the environment will be encouraged.
We propose to collaborate in protecting the natural environment and respecting and appreciating the existence of protected wild areas in the country and the region, as well as Costa Rica’s cultural heritage.
The extraction and commercialization of wild products and species will not be promoted.
Wild animals will not be kept in captivity.
Following national legislation, specifically Law 9028, smoking is prohibited inside all hotel facilities, including gardens, parking lots, pools, bars, and terraces.
The delay in changing towels and bedding will be encouraged through signage in the rooms.
Support will be provided as much as possible for the operation and improvement of tourist safety.
The company commits to maintaining a place for the separation of solid and ordinary waste, as well as maintaining a safe, clean, and odor-free environment.
Illegal hiring or hiring under the minimum conditions required by Costa Rican law will not be practiced.
Equal opportunities will be encouraged by all possible means without discrimination for any reason, and any form of sexual exploitation or drug trade will be discouraged.
We will work closely with other companies, municipal governments, the national government, and national or foreign organizations pursuing responsible tourism development.
Support will be provided as much as possible for the operation and improvement of tourist safety.

Saving Measures

Water Saving Measures

Turn off water taps when not in use; for example, when soaping or shaving. Inform guests on how they can help avoid waste.
Aerators are used on taps and showers to reduce water flow.
Efficient toilets that use less water per flush are employed.
Regular maintenance of water taps and toilets is carried out to avoid leaks or drips.
External piping is checked to prevent water leaks.
Efficient washing machines with non-return valves are used to prevent water and detergent loss through the drain.
Washing machines are operated with full loads.
Native plants are grown in the garden; they are adapted to the local climate and do not require excessive watering.

Energy Saving Measures

Turn off unused lights. Remind guests to turn off lights when they leave the room.
Encourage guests to open windows and blinds for natural light during the day.
Walls are painted light colors to reflect natural light better.
Energy-saving bulbs are used.
Sensors are used for automatic lighting in common areas such as the garden.
Use modern, energy-efficient air conditioning units.
Keep the refrigerator well-sealed and check that seals are in good condition.
Unplug unused appliances as they consume energy when plugged in.
Modern appliances are used as recent technologies are more energy efficient. Energy consumption labels are checked.
Short washing programs are used, employing detergents that work well with cold water.
Guests are invited to reuse clean towels and sheets.
Periodic maintenance of appliances is carried out.

Pollution Reduction Measures

Reduce paper use for printing; whenever possible, communicate via email.
Print on both sides of a sheet.
Use paper towels and napkins in the kitchen and dining room.
Reduce waste production by sorting waste at the source for subsequent recycling. Inform staff and guests about selective collection of paper, plastic, glass, aluminum, and organic waste.
Work with the local municipality for classified waste collection.
Materials suppliers are provided with classified waste.
Rechargeable batteries are used for lights, cameras, and other devices.
Avoid using disposable plastic cups and cutlery. Instead, buy durable, high-quality crockery.
Serve coffee in ceramic cups instead of disposable cups.
Use containers made from environmentally friendly materials in the restaurant.
Consume products that come in returnable or reusable containers.
Avoid products with excessive packaging.
Encourage reusing plastic bags; if possible, avoid them.
Donate discarded bedding and appliances no longer used by the company.
Grease traps have been installed in sinks.

Tourism Sustainability Manual

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