SM Hotels & Conventions Recognized for Innovation in Sustainable Hospitality with ‘Plate for the Planet’ Program

Sustainability Takes Center Stage in Hospitality

SM Hotels & Conventions has been distinguished as the recipient of the World’s Leading Sustainable Circular Economy Initiative 2025, thanks to its pioneering ‘Plate for the Planet’ program. This accolade was presented during a prestigious ceremony hosted at Terra, Expo City Dubai, attended by influential leaders championing sustainable tourism worldwide.

Integrating Circular Economy Principles Through Food

The ‘Plate for the Planet’ initiative embeds sustainability deep into hospitality operations, focusing on three core pillars: food, waste, and education. Central to this program are plant-based menu options, ambitious food waste reduction goals, and improved community nutrition. Impressively, vegetarian choices constitute 75% of the hotel menus, and over 200 kilograms of food waste are diverted every month through donations and composting efforts.

This program aligns closely with global sustainability frameworks including the UN Sustainable Development Goals and WWF’s sustainable dining standards, showcasing how hospitality can contribute positively to environmental stewardship.

Співпраця та залучення громадськості

The success of this initiative isn’t just about hospitality operations; it extends to a broader collaboration with local food producers and suppliers. SM Hotels & Conventions organizes workshops and enforces sustainable sourcing standards, thereby empowering employees and suppliers alike. This strategy not only strengthens relationships but also lessens environmental impacts throughout the supply chain.

Through these efforts, the organization supports local agricultural communities while maintaining high standards for guest satisfaction and environmental responsibility. This balanced approach has earned the program a reputation as a scalable and responsible model for the hospitality sector.

Remarks from Leadership and Industry Experts

Leah Magallanes, Vice President of Quality & Sustainability at SM Hotels & Conventions, emphasized the program’s continuous journey toward sustainability, highlighting that “circularity in food is possible—though never easy” and requires creativity, sound policies, and teamwork among all stakeholders. She hopes the recognition will inspire other hospitality players to rethink their food systems and work towards circular economy principles.

Glenn Mandziuk, President and CEO of the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, praised the awardee for outstanding commitment to innovation in sustainable hospitality. He remarked that their leadership proves responsible business practices and sustainability are essential to the industry’s future.

Justin Cooke, Executive Vice-President of the World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards, congratulated SM Hotels & Conventions, acknowledging their pioneering role in setting new standards that protect the planet for generations to come.

Why Sustainability Matters in Hospitality Transfers and Travel

When considering taxi and transfer services for travel, environmental and social responsibility are increasingly important criteria for many travellers. Programs like ‘Plate for the Planet’ demonstrate how the hospitality industry can innovate sustainably, an approach that eventually ripples out to all aspects of tourism, including ground transportation.

Platforms like GetTransfer.com provide users with transparency and choice by allowing travellers to select vehicle types, check driver ratings, and view exact fares ahead of time. This level of detail supports sustainable travel decisions, ensuring that every leg of the journey—from hotel to airport transfer—can align with a greener mindset.

How Sustainability Translates to Transfers and Taxi Services

• Choice of vehicle: Selecting low-emission or hybrid vehicles through the GetTransfer platform reduces carbon footprints.
• Operational efficiency: Transparent pricing and clear communication via the app minimize wait times and optimize route planning, cutting unnecessary mileage.
• Supporting responsible providers: Verified drivers and companies that embrace sustainable practices contribute to greener travel experiences.

Аспект	Вплив	Connection to Hospitality Sustainability
Food Waste Reduction	Decreased landfill use and methane emissions	Encourages waste-conscious traveller habits and eco-friendly dining while on trips
Місцеве постачання	Supports regional economies and reduces transport emissions	Aligns with local transfer services that use regional drivers and vehicles
Educational Outreach	Heightens awareness of sustainable behaviors	Empowers tourists to choose greener transfer and travel options

Making Smarter and Greener Travel Choices

Important to note, nothing beats firsthand experience when it comes to gauging the impact and value of sustainability efforts. Even the most authentic reviews fall short of the insight gained through personal trial. With GetTransfer.com, travellers can hire vehicles driven by licensed, verified professionals who offer a wide range of cars from private limousines to economical seater taxis, all at reasonable fares.

This availability of multiple vehicle options, paired with upfront pricing and transparent service details, helps customers make well-informed decisions without the risk of overspending or unpleasant surprises.

Key Benefits with GetTransfer.com:

• Extensive fleet ranging from cheap, reliable cabs to luxurious limousines
• Exact fare quotes before booking to avoid hidden charges
• User-friendly app and website for quick and easy ride planning
• Clear information on drivers, vehicle types, and ratings

Забронюйте поїздку за адресою GetTransfer.com to enjoy convenience, affordability, and responsible travel choices for your next trip.

Looking Ahead: The Role of Sustainable Initiatives in Global Travel

While this recognition of SM Hotels & Conventions is a significant beacon in sustainable hospitality, its direct ripple effect on global tourism is an encouraging but gradual progression. However, such initiatives are invaluable in setting benchmarks and motivating the industry to embrace environmental responsibility.

GetTransfer remains committed to staying updated with such developments, ensuring travellers worldwide have access to transparent, reliable, and eco-conscious transfer options. Start planning your next adventure and secure your worldwide transfer with GetTransfer.

Підсумок

The accolade awarded to SM Hotels & Conventions for their ‘Plate for the Planet’ program spotlights innovative strides in sustainable hospitality through circular economy principles, particularly in food sustainability and waste reduction. This holistic and collaborative approach not only benefits the environment but sets a precedent for the tourism industry at large.

For travellers seeking to extend these values throughout their journey, platforms like GetTransfer.com offer a transparent, user-friendly service to book private, sustainable transfers to any destination. With a rich selection of vehicles, exact pricing, and verified drivers, it’s easier than ever to make eco-aware travel choices from the airport to the city centre and beyond.