first hotel in Portugal to earn the prestigious Green Globe re-certification

LOS ANGELES, California – Green Globe announced re-certification of the Inspira Santa Marta Hotel in Lisbon, Portugal. Since its opening in October 2010, this unique hotel has demonstrated leadership and innovation in the fields of operational efficiency and corporate social responsibility. This property inspires and encourages sustainable practices among all stakeholders, from partners and vendors to employees and guests.

“We are very proud to be the first hotel in Portugal to earn the prestigious Green Globe re-certification and international recognition,” said Nicolas Roucos, General Manager at the Inspira Santa Marta Hotel in Lisbon, “Inspira Santa Marta Hotel has indeed not only achieved this re-certification, but we were able to increase our score on the compliance scale, which demonstrates true and long-term commitment to our journey into sustainable development. The work that will be involved in the future is much more challenging now, and we are continuously looking for ways to minimize our environmental impact.”

A long-term sustainability management system is in effect at the Inspira Santa Marta Hotel. The property is equipped with solar panels, water-saving devices, LED lighting, light sensors in corridors and all public areas, and 100% renewable energy is being purchased. Local suppliers adhering to sustainable practices are given preference, and the commitment extends to the hotel’s restaurants, which offer seasonal dishes with organic ingredients. “The Green Squad,” a special team of a group of employees from different departments and various responsibilities, monitors the progress of green measures, shaping and realizing the hotel’s environmental goals. “Engaging your senses” is the motto at the Inspira Santa Marta, and relying on the principles of Feng Shui, the hotel offers a unique experience to guests.

The Inspira Santa Marta Hotel supports the community and partners with various non-profit associations, such as Pump Aid, an international water and sanitation charity dedicated to the construction of water pumps and fittings in African countries. Hotel guests contribute donations with the purchase of filtered water in glass bottles recycled at the hotel.

Green Globe Certification’s CEO, Guido Bauer, commented: “We are extremely pleased to award re-certification to the Inspira Santa Marta Hotel in Lisbon. This property sets benchmarks with their outstanding efforts and dedication to sustainable development in Portugal. Current projects at the hotel include development of gluten-free menu options and making electric vehicles available to guests.” For more information, please watch The Inspira Santa Marta video on Green Globe’s youtube channel: mygreenglobe.com .

ABOUT INSPIRA SANTA MARTA HOTEL

This 4-star hotel is an “urban retreat” in the very center of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital. The Inspira Santa Marta stands out with its innovative concept and exceptional location just a stone’s throw away from Avenida de Liberdade, one of the most emblematic avenues in Portugal. The hotel offers a total of 89 rooms and suites, including 2 rooms for disabled people. Room design respects the principles of Feng Shui, creating spaces more comfortable and balanced, avoiding stagnation of energy flows. Guests can enjoy fresh Mediterranean cuisine at the Mediterranean Brasserie, and the Urban Bar invites for a pre-dinner drink by a fireplace. “The Retreat” spa offers a variety of services and treatments, sauna, steam bath, and a jacuzzi. The Inspira Santa Marta Hotel won the 2012 Turismo Portugal Award.

Contact: Nicolas Roucos, General Manager, Inspira Santa Marta Hotel, Rua de Santa Marta 48, Lisboa 1150-297, Portugal, Phone +351 210 440 909, Fax +351 210 435 993, Email [email protected] , www.inspirahotels.com

ABOUT GREEN GLOBE CERTIFICATION

Green Globe Certification is the worldwide sustainability system based on internationally-accepted criteria for sustainable operation and management of travel and tourism businesses. Operating under a worldwide license, Green Globe Certification is based in California, USA, and is represented in over 83 countries. Green Globe Certification is a member of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, supported by the United Nations Foundation. For information, visit www.greenglobe.com .