Ecological Innovations at Xcaret: 6 Actions to Reduce Disposable Plastics

Acting Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow

Will you join us in fostering a culture of reuse for a cleaner future?

In a world where single-use plastics have become a significant environmental threat, we must take concrete steps to reduce our ecological footprint.

At Xcaret, we are committed to promoting sustainable practices that benefit the environment and inspire our visitors to adopt more responsible habits. This article explores how we can replace single-use plastics with reusable products daily, highlighting the initiatives implemented in our parks and hotels to support this cause.

Reducing Single-Use Plastics

The negative impact of single-use plastics on the environment is alarming. These materials, which take centuries to decompose, contribute to ocean and soil pollution, affecting wildlife and ecosystems. Everyone must take decisive action to eliminate single-use plastics in our daily routines.

Here, I'll describe some of the actions implemented at Xcaret that might inspire you to do the same.

1. Reusable Cups and Thermoses

We reflect our commitment to sustainability through various initiatives to reduce the consumption of disposable plastics. Since 2020, we have provided reusable thermoses to our hotel guests and tour participants, significantly reducing the use of plastic water bottles.

Additionally, since 2011, we have implemented reusable polycarbonate cups in all our experiences. This strategic decision has allowed us to eliminate disposable cups, promoting a reuse and waste reduction culture. These actions minimize environmental impact and offer our visitors a more ecological and conscientious experience.

2. Reusable Bags: A Creative Alternative

Since 2019, Xcaret has stopped using plastic bags and offers economical reusable laminated bags in all our parks. These bags feature beautiful and creative designs inspired by Mexico's cultural and natural richness and serve as a sustainable keepsake for your visit.

At Xcaret Hotels, we provide guests exclusive-design blanket bags as a courtesy in each room. Perfect for shopping, beach belongings, or daily use, these bags are practical and symbolize our commitment to sustainability.

3. Installation of Water Stations: Sustainable Hydration

Reducing disposable plastics also extends to the sale of plastic bottles. Instead, we encourage our visitors to bring their water bottles and hydrate at the 160 water fountains and dispensers in parks and hotels that we have had since 2020, ensuring applicable health and hygiene standards.

If visitors do not have a thermos or cup, a wide variety of unique and attractive designs are available at affordable prices in all stores, perfect for remembering their experience at Xcaret.

4. Bottled Water Without PET

For those looking for bottled water, in 2019, we replaced PET water bottles in our stores with a plastic-free alternative: reusable aluminum bottles produced with a low environmental impact approach.

These bottles, designed to maintain water temperature, come with a strap for easy carrying, making them more convenient during your visit. These bottles are a practical choice and a step towards a greener future.

Our hotels, Hotel Xcaret Mexico, Hotel Xcaret Arte and La Casa de la Playa, have also joined the commitment to reduce the use of single-use plastics, offering elegant and sustainable alternatives.

5. Reusable Glass Water Bottles at Xcaret Hotels

To ensure our guests stay hydrated sustainably, we provide reusable glass water bottles in all dining areas, rooms, and the gym. These bottles are a stylish and ecological alternative to disposable plastic bottles, promoting the habit of reuse and waste reduction.

Since 2019, Hotel Xcaret Mexico has operated a purified water bottling plant that supplies water in reusable containers. We inaugurated a second bottling plant in 2021 with the opening of Hotel Xcaret Arte to provide purified water to this hotel and Casa de La Playa. These facilities meet rigorous food hygiene standards and have prevented the use of over 1.5 million PET bottles.

6. Snorkeling Equipment Upgrade for a More Sustainable Option

In our constant effort to reduce environmental impact and enhance visitor experience, in 2022, we took a significant step towards sustainability. We replaced traditional snorkeling masks with full-face masks, an innovative alternative that provides greater comfort and safety to users and allows us to eliminate the use of over 600,000 plastic tubes.

This measure contributes to reducing plastic waste and reflects our commitment to environmental protection and continuous improvement of our sustainable practices.

Extra: Eco-Friendly Souvenirs

In addition to the initiatives mentioned, Xcaret offers a line of regionally themed stuffed animals made from recycled plastic. These plush toys are adorable and educational and represent an innovative way to reuse plastic materials, contributing to waste reduction and promoting environmental awareness among children.

How You Can Help Reduce Single-Use Plastics at Home

Adopting sustainable habits doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some ways you can reduce single-use plastics in your daily life:

1. Use reusable bags: Always carry fabric bags when shopping.
2. Buy in bulk: Choose bulk foods and use your own containers.
3. Avoid plastic bottles: Use reusable stainless steel or glass bottles.
4. Say no to disposable cutlery: Bring your reusable cutlery when eating out.
5. Use glass containers: Store your food in glass jars instead of plastic.
6. Opt for package-free products: Buy fruits and vegetables without plastic packaging.
7. Make homemade products: Make your own cleaning and personal care products to avoid plastic packaging.
8. Recycle properly: Learn about proper recycling and separating your waste.
9. Reuse containers: Give a second life to plastic containers you already have.
10. Educate your family: Share these tips with your family and friends so everyone can contribute.

At Xcaret, we believe every small step counts. By reducing the use of single-use plastics and opting for reusable products, we are caring for the environment and building a more sustainable future for the next generations. We invite you to join us on this journey towards a greener and more responsible world.

Together, we can make a difference.

Act today for a sustainable tomorrow!