Lake Como, Italy, December 11, 2024 – UCSL United Certification Systems Limited is proud to announce that Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como has achieved the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Certification, solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable luxury.

With this certification, Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como joins an elite group of properties worldwide that adhere to GSTC’s rigorous criteria. Assessed by UCSL, a GSTC-Accredited Certification Body, the resort has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to sustainability practices, including environmental management, cultural heritage protection, and support for local communities.

“Achieving GSTC certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who strives every day to deliver truly extraordinary guest experiences while preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Lake Como,” said Samuel Porreca, General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como. “We extend our gratitude to UCSL for thoughtful partnership, their thorough assessment and support throughout this journey.”

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, known for upholding the highest standards of excellence, gained GSTC-Committed status earlier this year. Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group recognizes the value of implementing the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Criteria as global standards for sustainable tourism and hospitality across their geographic scope of operations internally and with their suppliers and stakeholders.

Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Como and surrounded by a lush botanical park, Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como serves as an inspiration for other luxury properties worldwide by seamlessly integrating sustainability into its exceptional guest experience. The resort has eliminated single-use plastics (in line with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s global commitment), uses lake water for efficient temperature regulation, and sources seasonal, locally grown ingredients to support nearby farmers. Its bar embraces zero-waste principles, and guests are invited to connect with the region through eco-tours and workshops with local artisans, blending exceptional hospitality with environmental and cultural stewardship.

Olga Shuvalova, CEO of UCSL: “We are honored to partner with Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como and collaborate with such an extraordinary and dedicated team in achieving GSTC Certification. Their commitment to sustainability is exemplary, demonstrating how true luxury is indeed sustainable.”

Immersed in a centuries-old botanical park on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como offers 75 guestrooms, suites and private Villas set amongst nine distinguished buildings, allowing for more privacy. The majority of the Villas are named after plants and trees that grow in the resort’s lush botanical garden. The beating heart of the hotel is the historic 18th century Villa Roccabruna, the former private residence of Italian soprano Giuditta Pasta, which houses ten of the hotel’s sophisticated suites as well as public spaces. Two of the Villas, namely Villa del Lago and Villa della Rocca, are available exclusively for private hire.

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Renowned for creating outstanding properties, each destination reflects the Group’s dual Asian heritage, local culture and unique design. Driven by a passion for the exceptional, every day, everywhere, the Group’s mission is to craft time enriching experiences that transform the ordinary to the exceptional and guests to fans through its legendary service. The Group now operates 41 hotels, 12 residences and 25 exceptional homes in 26 countries and territories with many more projects under development. Mandarin Oriental continues to drive its reputation as an innovative leader in luxury hospitality, delivering sustainable growth over the long term.

United Certification Systems Limited (UCSL) is an independent certification body, headquartered in the EU and operating worldwide. Proud to be one of the first GSTC-Accredited certification bodies, we provide certification services that align with the highest standards in luxury hospitality, bringing unparalleled expertise to the forefront. Driven by a deep passion for sustainability, we transcend the traditional role of a certification body, emerging as pioneers in research and education, spearheading positive change within the tourism industry.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Juliana Rozenkrantc
Communications manager, UCSL
j.rozenkrantc@ucsl.eu