World’s Leading Sustainable Circular Economy Partnership – One Tree at a Time X Six Senses Courecheval

Six Senses Residences Courchevel (SSCVL) is a luxury property nestled in the alpine resort of Courchevel, France. Committed to sustainability and wellness, SSCVL integrates eco-conscious practices that benefit guests, the environment, and local communities. Through Six Senses’ GSTC-recognised Sustainable Operations Guidelines and strategic partnerships, including a Sustainability Fund (contributing 0.5% of total revenue), SSCVL actively promotes responsible tourism.

As Courchevel’s reputation as a premier outdoor sports destination grows, the region faces challenges such as economic dependence on seasonal tourism, increased pressure on municipal infrastructure, and waste from discarded sports equipment. To address these issues, SSCVL partners with One Tree at a Time (OTAAT), a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to fostering sustainability by repairing and reusing outdoor gear. OTAAT offers workshops, a community repair space, and upcycling initiatives, while also creating alternative livelihoods through its repair workshop.

Since June 2023, OTAAT has:

  • Encouraged 11 companies to repurpose their work uniforms
  • Provided employment for 7 individuals
  • Delivered 150+ hours of training workshops to 177 participants
  • Diverted 457 kg of clothing waste from landfills (January–March 2024)

 

Six Senses was also the first hotel brand to commit to the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative (GTPI) in 2020, reinforcing its dedication to sustainability. OTAAT exemplifies the circular economy in alpine sports tourism, a model that can be replicated across thousands of locations in the Alps.

As a member of the Re-Action Collective, OTAAT extends its impact by working with communities to reduce waste, cut carbon emissions, and conserve resources. Its latest initiative repurposes used outdoor gear into durable, weatherproof sleeping bags for individuals experiencing homelessness in France. Previously, OTAAT collaborated with the London Marathon to rebrand and reuse event apparel instead of producing single-use sportswear. These efforts demonstrate how circular models in the sports industry can save money, reduce waste, and fulfil social needs – setting a new standard for sustainable tourism worldwide.

World’s Leading Sustainable Water and Waste Innovation – Six Senses Zigby Bay

Six Senses has one clear goal when it comes to waste: Zero! At Six Senses Zighy Bay, an advanced onsite sewage treatment system makes this ambition a reality. Grey water irrigates the resort’s 5,200 trees, while organic sludge is naturally composted in reed beds and later donated to local farmers.

In 2022, the resort enhanced its waste management program with two new onsite waste segregation facilities and a full renovation of the wet waste area. As a result, 11 waste categories are now meticulously separated onsite. In 2023 alone, the resort produced 12,226 kilograms of compost from food waste, all donated to local farmers. Additional sustainability efforts include recycling glass, soap, candles, paper, and cardboard onsite, while other materials, such as used cooking oil, are sent offsite for biodiesel production.

Thanks to these initiatives, 33% of total waste was diverted from landfills in 2023. To push this even further, the team is investing in an industrial wood chip machine, aiming for 100% recycling of landscaping waste.

Beyond waste reduction, water conservation remains a top priority. In 2023, the resort cut total water consumption by 40% compared to 2019, driven by a strong leak prevention system and an energy conservation committee.

With innovation and commitment, Six Senses Zighy Bay is redefining sustainable luxury – one zero-waste goal at a time.

Armand Thieblemont  comments on the award wins:

“It is fantastic to be recognised as doing good within our industry. Of course, the work is the most important, however it is great to be recognised, especially for our colleagues to feel that their work is being made aware of. Internally, it helps us to say thank you to everyone involved and to know that their efforts are making a real difference.”