BUCUTI BEACH RESORT NAMED TO ISLANDS MAGAZINE’S FIRST ANNUAL ‘BLUE

EAGLE BEACH, Aruba – December 4, 2007 – ISLANDS magazine recently recognized Bucuti Beach Resort’s owner and CEO Ewald Biemans for his environmental stewardship on the magazine’s first annual “Blue List,” a compilation of the top 100 leaders and innovators in responsible tourism.  The list acknowledges those who have embraced, nurtured and protected the amazingly diverse natural and cultural heritage of their islands.

            “Since day one, my wife Susan and I have been committed to preserving Aruba’s rich culture and environment and educating our guests on what makes the island unique,” said Biemans.  “Promoting conservationism among our staff and guests is a major part of the Bucuti experience.  Whether it’s participating in one of our resort-sponsored beach clean-ups, interacting with volunteers from Turtugaruba, the island’s sea turtle protection program, or enjoying native cuisine, folklore and music at our restaurant, the Pirates’ Nest, our guests can count on a truly hands-on, authentic Aruban experience.”

            The Biemans also hold bi-annual recycled craft contests for resort associates and annual focus groups for guests that address environmental issues.

            “You have to not only talk the talk, but also walk the walk,” said Biemans, explaining his philosophy behind Bucuti’s extensive environmental programs.  “We are responsible for doing everything possible to ensure that we maintain the exceptional natural beauty of Aruba and its people for generations to come.”

In addition to his dedication to maintaining the island’s cultural identity, Biemans is also a leader in instituting environmentally sound operating practices.  Bucuti was the first Caribbean resort to become ISO 14001 certified and is now celebrating its fourth consecutive year of certification and its sixth consecutive year of Green Globe 21 certification. 

            The resort’s guest rooms and suites are designed to preserve energy and water and are equipped with recycling bins, energy saving lamps, insulation systems that retain cool air and water saving toilets, showerheads and taps.  All sink and bath water is collected in a grey water recycling system where ultraviolet light destroys bacteria so the water can safely be re-used to irrigate the grounds.  Wastewater from the toilets flows to a government treatment plant for re-use by businesses and the two golf courses on the island. 

Throughout the resort, energy and resources are conserved through the use of light and air conditioning sensors, environmentally friendly products and bulk dispensers for products like soap, shampoo and lotion.  Solar heated water is used in designated areas of the resort and ozone machines, rather than chemical aerosols, keep guest rooms smelling fresh.  A resort-wide recycling program helps drastically eliminate the amount of waste from glass, aluminum, paper and other materials.

Bucuti Beach Resort featuring Tara Beach Suites & Spa is Aruba’s premier, intimate, upscale boutique resort.  Located on the white powder sands of Eagle Beach, Bucuti offers 104 guest rooms and an abundance of contemporary European charm.  A caring and attentive staff, a commitment to environmental responsibility and innovative technology, including advance check-in, high-speed WiFi access throughout the resort and loaner laptops, are just a few of the features that have persuaded nearly half of Bucuti’s guests to return year after year.  For more information, visit www.bucuti.com.

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