The Surfrider Foundation is excited to announce the launch of our brand new Ocean Friendly Hotels Program! This program recognizes hotels that are committed to cutting out unnecessary single-use plastic and offers a simple, straightforward framework to help them make sustainable choices for our ocean. The larger we grow our network of Ocean Friendly leaders, the more mainstream the concept of plastic-free becomes.
To celebrate, The South Orange County Chapter connected with The Ranch at Laguna Beach to hear about their ocean-friendly practices and why they joined the new program.
Please tell us about your hotel. What makes it a special destination for your guests, and how is your location connected to the ocean?
The Ranch at Laguna Beach is a unique destination, as it is nestled in the stunning Aliso Canyon, right across from Aliso Beach. Our guests can enjoy a drink by the pool or live music and a round of golf surrounded by steep cliffs full of natural beauty. What sets us apart is our connection to the ocean, which is just a short walk from our canyon oasis. This proximity allows guests to enjoy beach activities, ocean views, and the calming sound of the waves. Additionally, our commitment to sustainability and the environment, especially through our ocean-friendly initiatives, enhances the overall experience of The Ranch.
What ocean-friendly practices does your hotel have in place? What sets your hotel apart in terms of its commitment to sustainability and ocean health in particular?
The Ranch at Laguna Beach is very committed to sustainability and ocean health, which is shown through a variety of initiatives. One of these key initiatives includes the elimination of single use plastic, which is done using compostable and glass materials, aluminum water bottles and cups, bamboo room keys, and responsible purchasing. On top of this, all food outlets and restaurants apart of The Ranch are certified Ocean Friendly Restaurants. The Harvest Restaurant only sells local sea food that is in season and meets the James Beard Sustainable Seafood Standards. The Ranch also participates in the "Adopt a Channel" program, maintaining a 0.75 mile stretch of the Aliso Creek Channel by removing thousands of pounds of trash annually, preventing it from reaching the ocean.
Why did you decide to join Surfrider’s Ocean Friendly Hotels program?
The Ranch joined the Surfrider’s Ocean Friendly Hotels program to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and ocean health. The program aligns with the hotel’s environmental values by helping to eliminate single-use plastics, improve recycling, and ensure sustainable sourcing. Being part of the Ocean Friendly Hotels program also strengthens The Ranch's reputation as a leader in sustainable hospitality.
Why do you think it’s important for the hospitality industry to prioritize sustainability? What role can you see the industry playing in protecting our ocean?
It is important for the hospitality industry to prioritize sustainability because of the large impact that the travel industry has on our environment. Prioritizing sustainability helps to reduce the hotel’s impact and conserve natural resources. Hotels and resorts often consume a significant amount of water, energy, and materials. By adopting sustainable practices, they can reduce waste, lower emissions, and protect the natural environment. The hospitality industry can play a significant role in protecting our oceans by implementing eco-friendly initiatives such as eliminating single use plastic, sourcing sustainable and local seafood, and educating guests on important issues related to the impact of their stay.
What advice do you have for other hotels looking to become more sustainable and may be considering joining the Ocean Friendly Hotels program?
For hotels looking to become more sustainable, our suggestion would be to start with easier, higher impact initiatives such as eliminating single-use plastics and composting food waste. We also suggest focusing on sourcing sustainable materials by working closely with distributors. It is also important to engage with staff and guests to promote eco-friendly habits.
Can you share a guest story or piece of feedback you’ve received about your sustainability efforts?
Recently we had one of our guests share a wonderful story about our Ball aluminum cups. They loved that we use reusable and infinitely recyclable aluminum cups instead of plastic or compostable ones. The guest mentioned that they took their cup home last time and continues to reuse it. They appreciate how it reduces waste, and they feel good knowing they are helping to contribute to our sustainability efforts. This kind of positive feedback shows how even small changes can have a big impact.
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Improving operational sustainability is always an evolutionary journey of refining best practices. Can you share anything you’re currently working on or other sustainable practices you’re hoping to implement in the future?
At The Ranch at Laguna Beach, we are always looking to improve our sustainability practices. Currently, we are looking to further reduce food waste at The Ranch by partnering with Copia and the Orange County Food Bank to donate extra food. Additionally, we are continuing to plant more trees on our property through the OC Tree Collective to offset carbon emissions. We have also unveiled our partnership with Rivian to provide guests with electric house cars, promoting cleaner transportation options.
Is your local hotel Ocean Friendly? If not, encourage them to sign up and join the movement to end single-use plastics!
Want to help Surfrider stop plastic pollution at the source? Consider donating today!