First low-carbon tourism certificate granted in Hội An

General director of EMIC, Phan Xuân Thanh (left) receives the Gold Platinum Low-Carbon Tourism Standard certification given by Magnus International, a leading company in environmental project management and carbon offsets. Photo courtesy of EMIC

Renowned for its exceptional dining experiences that honour indigenous culture while promoting natural ecosystem regeneration, the restaurant has dedicated considerable time to establishing a foundation rooted in zero waste principles, circular economy practices, and sustainability standards within the tourism sector.

Comprehensive waste management protocols have been implemented across all service areas, including waste management training programmes, initiatives to minimise waste, and measures to enhance energy efficiency. Additionally, the restaurant actively participates in community-based environmental and livelihood projects.

Operated within a self-sufficient garden setting, the restaurant employs biological wastewater treatment systems, as well as effective energy and water management practices, all situated amidst picturesque paddy fields.

A bird's view of the Field Restaurant in Hội An. It was the first unit in Việt Nam winning the Low-Carbon Tourism Standard certification. Photo courtesy of the Field

It's hailed as the pioneering restaurant in Hội An championing a sustainable approach based on the 5-R principle – Refuse, Reduce, Recycle, Reuse, and Repurpose – since 2017.

EMIC Hospitality, in partnership with the Environmental Management Fund Foundation and Magnus International Thailand, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing their commitment to sustainability and positioning Hội An as a model for sustainable and responsible tourism.

Kulladejha Siriwattanawat, President of the Environmental Management Fund Foundation, highlighted the significance of the Platinum level certification of the Low Carbon Tourism standard (LCTS), emphasising that while tourism is a vital industry for Việt Nam, it also comes with environmental consequences.

"At the certification presentation event in Hội An, Kulladejha Siriwattanawat praised Emic Hospitality's dedication to promoting sustainable tourism by prioritising the conservation of natural resources and the environment. Their proactive approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conducting business ethically is commendable," she stated.

"The Platinum level certification they've received acknowledges their unwavering commitment to sustainable business practices, taking into account their environmental footprint and endeavours to minimise greenhouse gas emissions.

Two tourists enjoy a meal at the Field Restaurant in the suburban area of Hội An Town. The restaurant has been building the sustainable and responsible tourism standard. Photo courtesy of EMIC

"I hope this award serves as motivation for other professionals in the tourism industry to prioritise environmental conservation and collaborate in developing sustainable tourism for future generations," he added.

The committee for the Low Carbon Tourism standard is dedicated to raising awareness among stakeholders in the tourism industry about the importance of preserving natural resources and the environment. They emphasise conducting operations that support efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and uphold ethical business practices.

Tirawit Balajiva, Chief Operating Officer of Magnus International Thailand, also remarked that the certification of the Low Carbon Tourism standard is granted to hotels demonstrating sustainable business practices, considering their environmental impact and commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Quảng Nam Province pioneered the 'Zero Plastic Waste Tourism' campaign in Việt Nam in 2019. Over 100 hotels, homestays, villas, and restaurants have pledged to reduce plastic waste.

The Field Restaurant in Hội An was one of the early adopters of the campaign, recycling organic waste from the kitchen to reduce daily waste released into the environment by 10kg to 15kg per day. They repurpose organic waste into 30kg of materials to create chemical-free dishwashing liquid each month.

Many handicraft companies in Quảng Nam have shifted to using bamboo, rattan, or leaves to produce bags, furniture, drinking straws, containers, and souvenirs. The province has encouraged Thừa Thiên Huế and Đà Nẵng to join the green tourism initiative.

EMIC is an Ecotourism & Hospitality Alliance in Hội An, offering a comprehensive range of services to enhance the entire guest experience, from accommodations and cuisine to wellness retreats and tours, all focused on responsible tourism.

The Field Restaurant is part of a 5-business working group, which includes Sea'lavie Boutique Resort & Spa, EMIC Travel, Refillables, and La Luna Spa, paving the way for a Sustainable Hội An.