From waste to wonder: Shangri-La Hambantota’s 18R Green Passport is changing face of tourism

Tucked away along Sri Lanka’s serene southern coast lies Shangri-La Hambantota, a lush haven of luxury and tranquility. But there’s more to this resort than its idyllic beaches and world-class service – it’s a trailblazer in a movement reshaping tourism itself. Enter the 18R Green Passport initiative, a revolutionary approach to sustainability that’s transforming how we think about waste, conservation and hospitality.

Beyond the 3Rs: A bold vision of 18Rs

Most are familiar with the 3Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. It is a simple mantra that has shaped environmental consciousness for decades. But at Shangri-La Hambantota, a bold question was asked: What if more could be done?

That question led to the birth of the 18R business model, a circular economy approach designed to return everything used back to nature in an environmentally friendly way. It is not just about protecting the planet; it is about turning waste into value, inefficiency into innovation, and sustainability into a way of life.

Starting from 3R, it expanded to 5R, then 7R, 12R, and now 18R, which includes principles like Robotics, Rest, and Recharge. With each iteration, new layers of thoughtfulness, efficiency, and profitability have been added to the sustainability movement. Because sustainability is not just good for the planet – it is good for business, too.

Waste as a new beginning

When one steps into Shangri-La Hambantota, sustainability greets them at every turn. Waste is no longer something to discard – it is treated as a valuable resource waiting to be reborn.

The resort’s approach to food waste can be taken, for instance. What does not end up on the plate finds its way to composting bins or becomes feed for local farms. Plastics are not just recycled; they are repurposed creatively, and single-use items are nearly non-existent. Rooms are equipped with designated waste segregation systems, complete with guest-friendly instructions, allowing visitors to contribute to the effort.

Even the resort’s purchasing practices reflect its green vision. Everything from cleaning products to packaging is carefully selected to minimise harm and maximise reusability.

The technology behind the 18Rs

But what makes this model truly groundbreaking is how it integrates technology to push sustainability further.

By using smart tracking systems and automation, the resort can monitor, optimise, and refine its sustainability efforts in real time. From energy management to waste conversion, every process is designed for maximum efficiency, transforming sustainability from a concept into a dynamic, self-sustaining system that delivers real impact.

The heart of Shangri-La: Its people

Sustainability isn’t just a policy here; it’s a passion shared by everyone. Shangri-La Hambantota’s team, led by visionary General Manager, Refhan Razeen, has woven this culture into the very fabric of the resort. Employees undergo rigorous training, not just to follow the rules but to truly live and breathe sustainability.

And it doesn’t stop there. The resort works hand-in-hand with local communities, providing opportunities for education and economic growth. Waste collectors, artisans and schools all benefit from this partnership, proving that sustainability isn’t just about protecting the planet - it’s about empowering people too.

Guests who leave changed

For guests, staying at Shangri-La Hambantota isn’t just a vacation – it’s an awakening. From the moment visitors check in, they’re handed tools to understand and participate in the 18R journey. Interactive workshops and behind-the-scenes tours show how the resort transforms waste into something extraordinary, leaving guests inspired to bring these ideas back home.

Some leave inspired to start composting at home. Others reflect on their own habits and choices. Many leave with a sense of connection – not just to the earth, but to the people working tirelessly to protect it.

One guest summed it up beautifully: “I came here for the luxury, but I left with a purpose”.

A vision beyond today

What makes Shangri-La Hambantota’s 18R Green Passport initiative truly remarkable is its vision for the future. It’s not just about reducing waste today but about reshaping how an industry and perhaps the world, treats waste tomorrow.

People can imagine a hospitality sector where luxury coexists with responsibility, where every stay leaves no trace but footprints on the sand. This is the world Shangri-La Hambantota is building, one innovative idea at a time.

Join the movement

When one chooses Shangri-La Hambantota, it is not merely a stay at a resort – it is joining a movement. A movement that demonstrates waste can be reborn, that tourism can be sustainable, and that every small action contributes to something significant.

Guests are invited to visit and witness firsthand how the 18Rs are shaping a greener tomorrow. The journey begins here, with Shangri-La Hambantota’s Green Passport in hand.