SCP Hilo Hotel Celebrated for Responsible Tourism with Elite Qurator Certification from HTA

Thursday, October 17, 2024

SCP Hilo Hotel proudly announces its Elite Status certification from the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA) Qurator program, the top distinction recognizing the hotel’s dedication to responsible tourism. Qurator, the State of Hawai‘i’s official mark of excellence for local businesses, helps guide visitors towards Hawai‘i-based products and experiences that embrace responsible tourism practices. This prestigious certification highlights SCP Hilo Hotel’s positive impact on the environment, community, and economy, showcasing its commitment to sustainable tourism and its contributions to Hawai‘i’s cultural and ecological preservation.

“Qurator isn’t just a stamp of approval,” said Mufi Hannemann, HTA board chair. “It speaks to a set of brand values for the Hawaiian Islands, that we care deeply about our land, our people, our culture, and our guests. It’s a recognition of the interdependent relationship between businesses, visitors, and our broader local community.”

To earn Qurator certification, businesses are assessed across six key categories: Environment, Cultural Support, Equity, Safety, Community, and Guest Experience. These criteria ensure a comprehensive evaluation of their commitment to responsible and sustainable practices.

“We are incredibly proud to have earned the Qurator certification, which is a reflection of our deep commitment to preserving the cultural and environmental integrity of Hawai‘i,” said Breeani Kobayashi, General Manager of SCP Hilo Hotel. “At SCP Hilo, we strive to offer an authentic experience for our guests while supporting the local community. This certification not only validates our efforts but also motivates us to continue leading by example in the hospitality industry. We are excited to welcome travelers who value sustainability and cultural authenticity as much as we do, and we believe this recognition will help us attract more visitors and investors who share our vision for a responsible future for our island home.”

SCP Hilo Hotel stands out as one of the select few hotels in Hawai’i to earn the prestigious Qurator certification, positioning itself as a top destination for travelers from the mainland U.S., Canada, and other Hawaiian islands who seek responsible and meaningful travel experiences. This certification reflects SCP Hilo’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and community engagement—values that resonate deeply with today’s conscious travelers.

With responsible tourism gaining momentum, the Qurator certification serves as a vital benchmark, recognizing businesses that uphold rigorous cultural, environmental, and community standards set by the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA). SCP Hilo’s dedication to these principles attracts both leisure and corporate travelers who are eager to support businesses that contribute positively to Hawai‘i’s cultural heritage and economic sustainability.

SCP Hilo is more than just a hotel; it’s a hub for community engagement, creating opportunities for guests and locals to connect through various collaborative events, cultural exchanges, and shared spaces. The hotel cultivates a sense of belonging and fosters meaningful connections, offering travelers authentic experiences that go beyond typical tourism.

The hotel’s regenerative travel philosophy is exemplified by its “Every Stay Does Good” program, where each guest stay actively contributes to restoring the local environment. Through a partnership with the Hawaii Wildlife Fund, SCP Hilo helps remove 2.2 pounds of trash from Hawai’i’s beaches for every stay, making a tangible impact on the preservation of the makai (seaside). Additionally, SCP Hilo was the first property in Hawai‘i to achieve Silver Benchmarked recognition by EarthCheck, the global leader in scientific benchmarking and certification for travel and tourism, further solidifying its commitment to sustainability.

Adding to its list of accolades, SCP Hilo was recently celebrated in the Sunset Travel Awards in the “Where to Stay: Nature Lover’s Lodging” category, a recognition of the hotel’s exceptional service, dedication to sustainability, and celebration of local culture. Through these initiatives, SCP Hilo continues to elevate the standard for responsible tourism in Hawai’i, offering guests an experience that is not only memorable but also mindful of the environment and the community.

“Qurator exemplifies HTA’s commitment to championing businesses and organizations that enrich our community as a whole,” said Daniel Nāho‘opi‘i, HTA’s interim president and CEO. “Many travelers want to make responsible choices, and with Qurator, visitors can easily identify businesses that align with their values and contribute to a more sustainable, regenerative Hawai‘i.”

Qurator was developed with a community-first approach, incorporating input from over 100 external groups before finalizing its criteria. This extensive collaboration covered a wider range of topics than any other program of its kind. Additionally, a 24-member advisory committee, comprising representatives from the visitor industry, business associations, government, and non-profit organizations, played a key role in guiding the development of Qurator, ensuring its alignment with community values and responsible tourism practices.

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