CASA VELHA DO PALHEIRO – 2026
At Casa Velha do Palheiro, we believe that sustainability is essential to the preservation of the environment and the well-being of future generations. We are committed to protecting the environment, reducing environmental impacts, and integrating sustainable practices across all our operations, in alignment with global sustainable development goals.
Casa Velha do Palheiro is committed to maintaining the international Green Key (GK) certification, reinforcing our dedication to sustainability, including socio-economic impacts and the well-being of both guests and employees.
We are committed to reducing energy consumption through the following measures:
Raising employee awareness regarding energy conservation.
Informing guests about the Green Key programme and environmental best practices.
Purchasing energy-efficient equipment (Energy Class A).
Using LED lighting and controlling outdoor lighting through timers.
Complete modernisation of the domestic hot water system (DHW), replacing the gas boiler with high-efficiency heat pumps (Energy Class A), promoting sustainability and reducing energy consumption.
Casa Velha do Palheiro adopts measures to minimise water consumption without compromising guest comfort or safety:
Installation of water-saving devices.
Use of rainwater for garden irrigation.
Use of heat pumps and solar panels for water heating.
We are committed to minimising waste production and promoting proper waste separation among both guests and employees.
We prioritise waste reduction at source, whenever possible, through the elimination of single-use items and the reuse of materials within hotel operations.
We prioritise the use of environmentally certified cleaning products and guest amenities, reducing our impact on the local ecosystem.
Casa Velha do Palheiro has established a partnership with Greener Act to support a reforestation project within the Palheiro Nature Estate.
Over 800 trees have been planted, forming a green labyrinth with the potential to offset approximately 20 tonnes of carbon per year.
The labyrinth is open to guests and visitors, who contribute to the project through the purchase of trees via the Greener Act platform.
The annual carbon offset generated by this project is equivalent to approximately 40 round-trip flights between Funchal and Lisbon.
Whenever possible, we select food products from local, organic, or sustainable sources, contributing to a reduced environmental footprint and supporting the local economy.
Casa Velha do Palheiro encourages guests to participate in sustainable practices, such as the reuse of towels and bed linen, and to take part in environmental initiatives promoted by the hotel.
Casa Velha do Palheiro has established clear and integrated guidelines to promote sustainable social, cultural, and economic development, with full respect for human rights and the dignity of all individuals. Our approach is based on principles of equity, transparency, inclusion, and responsibility, fostering a positive impact on the surrounding communities.
We ensure fair and transparent recruitment processes, offering equal opportunities to all.
We recognise the importance of prioritising local recruitment, encouraging people to remain within the surrounding community and contributing to the local economy.
We guarantee full respect for labour rights recognised at both national and international levels.
Child labour is strictly prohibited at any stage of our daily operations or throughout our supply chains.
We promote dignified working conditions, including fair working hours, appropriate remuneration, and freedom of association.
We do not discriminate based on age, race, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, socio-economic status, or any other condition.
We adopt strict safety standards.
All employees are provided with health insurance, as well as free access to a medical specialist in nutrition and well-being.
We also promote access to specialised mental health care.
We foster a culture of prevention through continuous training in safe practices and emergency response.
We promote continuous capacity-building for employees and community members on social, cultural, environmental, and citizenship-related topics.
We develop awareness campaigns tailored to local contexts.
We value traditional knowledge and encourage the exchange of knowledge and experience.
We respect and promote universal human rights in all our activities.
We combat all forms of discrimination, exclusion, or oppression.
We strongly repudiate any form of exploitation or harassment—commercial, sexual, psychological, or physical—particularly against children, adolescents, women, minorities, and vulnerable groups.
We value cultural, ethnic, religious, and gender diversity as an asset for social and organisational development.
We implement protective measures and accessible, secure reporting channels.
We stimulate local economic development by valuing community products, services, and traditional knowledge.
We encourage partnerships with community associations and local businesses.
We adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption in all its forms.
We promote ethical tourism that respects local cultures and the environment.
We ensure that tourism activities do not compromise natural or cultural resources, nor generate negative impacts on the local community.
Cátia Afonso
Hotel Manager
Casa Velha do Palheiro – Relais & Châteaux
