Six Senses Vana Marks World Environment Day with the launch of Earth Lab, Enhancing Sustainable Tourism

INDIA, 05 June, 2024: As we inch closer to the World Environment Day, Six Senses Vana reaffirms its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, echoing this year's theme of land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience. At Six Senses Vana, celebrating the Earth and its natural resources is a continuous way of life, rooted in the belief that nature is not outside of us but within us. Since its inception, Six Senses Vana has embraced the Green Building Concept, ensuring that every aspect of design and operation is environmentally responsible. As one of the first hospitality businesses in India to achieve LEED Platinum Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council in 2015, Six Senses Vana continues to set new standards in sustainable tourism.

The sustainable practices at Six Senses Vana extend beyond the conventional, adapting to the latest trends to minimize the environmental footprint. Taking this philosophy forward, Six Senses Vana proudly announces the launch of Earth Lab, a dedicated space for engagement and innovation to promote sustainable ways of living. This hub showcases sustainability initiatives, including water conservation, forestry, and renewable energy projects. It also displays essential consumption data, highlighting the retreat’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Aligned with Six Senses' core values, the Earth Lab provides an immersive experience for guests to participate in workshops that inspire environmental consciousness and action. These hands-on experiences foster a realistic connection to local communities and wildlife projects, enriching their stay with purpose and positive impact.

“Six Senses Vana has always believed strongly in sustainability and takes conscious efforts to give it back to mother nature. Launching The Earth Lab has been a personal project, it is home to diverse educational activities, helping guests foster a deeper connection with oneself. It helps to instill the value of giving back to the environment and appreciating its resources and beauty. We believe that every visit to the Earth Lab will empower guests to appreciate the environment and consciously protect it.”

Jaspreet Singh, General Manager Six Senses Vana

These activities at Earth Lab include Seed Bomb Making, where guests will learn how to create seed bombs—small bundles of seeds, soil, and clay. These can be thrown into areas in need of vegetation, promoting reforestation in a fun and interactive way. Another immersive experience includes Workout while Watering, combining physical exercise with environmental stewardship. Guests can participate in a guided workout session that involves watering plants around the retreat, helping to maintain the lush greenery while staying fit. The Bamboo Basket & Craft Making Workshop offers hands-on experience in crafting with bamboo, showcasing the versatility and environmental benefits of this highly versatile resource.

These activities will be supplemented by interactive displays at the retreat, including Birds of Vana, an engaging exhibit featuring the diverse bird species that inhabit the Six Senses Vana area. Trees of Vana  

will highlight the various tree species found in and around Six Senses Vana, educating guests on the significance of these trees in maintaining ecological balance and their benefits to the environment. In  addition to this, the Sustainable Practices Wall will incorporate a comprehensive exhibit detailing Six Senses Vana’s commitment to sustainability. This wall will feature information on responsible sourcing, eco-friendly construction methods, and the various green initiatives implemented at the property.

Sustainability is placed at the core of Six Senses Vana, effortlessly integrating eco-friendly practices with luxurious wellness experiences. Inspired by biophilic design, Six Senses Vana features living walls, abundant natural light, and seamless integration of outdoor spaces, enhancing both visual appeal and environmental benefits. By utilizing electrical heat pumps for laundry, the retreat has eliminated the use of diesel, further reducing its carbon footprint.

At Six Senses Vana, operational and embodied carbon emissions are continuously monitored. Hence, sustainable building materials and durable furnishings are chosen to minimize environmental impact. Regenerative tourism is at the heart of Six Senses Vana’s mission, supporting local conservation efforts, offering eco-tours, and practicing regenerative agriculture on-site to positively impact the environment and local communities.

The energy efficiency measures include advanced InnCom Control Systems that optimize lighting and air conditioning based on occupancy, while Building Management Systems regulate air-conditioning in public spaces to conserve energy. Additionally, the in-house high-efficiency sewerage treatment plant recycles gray water, ensuring not a single drop is wasted. The on-site bottling plant has significantly reduced single-use plastic, eliminating over one million plastic bottles in the last decade.

Nature conservation is woven into every element of the retreat. Natural textiles sourced from ethically responsible farms are used, ensuring the highest standards of eco-conscious production. The furniture is made from FSC-certified wood and bamboo, underscoring Six Senses Vana’s commitment to responsible forestry. Low VOC paints and polishes enhance indoor air quality, safeguarding the health of both guests and staff.

Guests can also experience verdant gardens, where organic herbs and produce are cultivated following Ayurvedic principles. By sourcing natural products from local artisans and Self-Help Groups, the retreat supports local livelihoods. The strong network of local farmers is responsible for the supply of organic vegetables and fruits, while the in-house Mushroom Hut offers a unique opportunity to harvest seasonal mushrooms.

Further, the composting plant converts organic waste from our kitchen and gardens into nutrient-rich soil, closing the loop from soil to soul and displaying a strong dedication to sustainability. This ensures 100% waste diversion from landfills, enriching both on-site gardens and the local farms from which the produce is sourced.

At Six Senses Vana, sustainability transcends green practices. It embodies a holistic approach to nurturing the environment and the communities that play a pivotal role in enriching the Vanavasis experience.

About Six Senses Vana:

Six Senses Vana is named after the Sal forest it takes refuge in. As the first Six Senses dedicated wellness retreat, it offers health and healing in the Himalayan foothills of India, just outside Dehradun. Ayurveda, Yoga, Tibetan Medicine, and Natural Healing Therapies combine with a rich daily activity schedule, deep commitment, and personalized support. The magic lies in the way these elements are fused together to best benefit guests, based on their current state of mind and body, and personal goals for the stay. Nourishing food, experiences for all the senses, and a kind-hearted team complete the retreat

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