Zannier Phum Baitang: Shaping Future Sustainable Tourism in the Region
Green Globe Gold certification has been awarded to Zannier Phum Baitang in Cambodia, marking five consecutive years of certification. The award winning luxury nature and wellness resort also received two ASEAN distinctions in February this year - the ASEAN Green Hotel Standard Award 2020-2028 and the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award 2026/27. Together, the two awards and Gold certification reflect the hotel team’s ongoing commitment to responsible hospitality and sustainability excellence.
General Manager, Gulio D'Alberto said, “We are truly delighted to have achieved Green Globe Gold status, especially considering the journey we have taken over the past five years. Achieving Green Globe Gold is a milestone that reflects not only our operational discipline but also our values. Sustainability at Zannier Phum Baitang is a collective effort, from reducing waste to supporting our community, and this recognition belongs to every member of our team. We remain committed to raising the bar even further in the years ahead.”
Phum Baitang or “green village” in Cambodian, is a Khmer inspired resort featuring 45 private villas designed in the style of traditional Cambodian homes raised on stilts (piloti). Phum Baitang’s sustainability performance has steadily progressed since its initial certification year, when it received a compliance score of 79%. The property has improved its green practices and performance to reach an outstanding score of 97% in the most recent audit. This progression reflects the consistent discipline, long-term planning, and the engagement of every department.
Over recent years, the shift to more comprehensive sustainable operations has significantly reduced waste across multiple categories. Since 2019, plastic and paper reduction through elimination of single-use items and improved recycling systems has led to a 91.9% drop in plastic waste. In addition, paper waste volume has decreased by 7.6%.
A food-waste management program was introduced where leftover food suitable for animal feed is distributed to employees. Furthermore, all organic waste that previously went to landfill is now transformed into compost to fertilize gardens. As a result in 2025, recycled food waste volume increased substantially to 158.6%. The program also includes a property-wide initiative encouraging all team members to avoid overfilling plates during staff meals, reducing unnecessary waste and fostering a culture of mindful consumption.
Progress has been made in effective resource management. Energy, water, and fuel savings have been achieved through the full implementation of LED lighting across the property, reduced lighting levels, strict air conditioning management, and the installation of airflow taps. Regarding air conditioning systems, AC units are controlled manually as rooms do not allow for the installation of an energy management system (EMS). This year in 2026, energy-saving procedures were implemented where temperatures are now set to 24 degrees at night and switched off when rooms are unoccupied.
Over the past five years, there has been an 8.1% decrease in energy usage and water consumption has dropped by 5.3%. Additional fuel-efficient vehicles have also been purchased for tours and transfers, including the introduction of electric vehicles leading to savings of 37.1% in fuel consumption.
Planting a Tree, one of the many activities offered at the property’s Young Talents Space, fosters a culture of environmental awareness among young visitors. The aim of the interactive initiative is to bring kids closer to nature and teach them the importance of nurturing the environment with love. Children can choose between two native Cambodian tree species, which the Gardening Team help them plant. The kids then select a name for their sapling which is tended to by the Team with regular emails sent on its growth to track its progress.
Zannier Phum Baitang continues to invest in meaningful community initiatives, highlighting its commitment to supporting local communities and positive social impacts. The hotel donated USD 537,000 to assist with renovations at a local orphanage. Ongoing campaigns are also organized to support a primary school in West Baray. Guest donations help fund sports activities and provide essential school supplies and stationery for more than 600 children.
Contact
Pich Chanly
Executive Assistant – Sustainability & Retail Operations
Zannier Phum BaitangNeelka Way, Svay Dangkum
171202 Siem Reap, Cambodia
E: pa.phumbaitang@zannier.com
T: +855 63 961 111