How hospitality can lead on climate and community– in conversation with Climate Reality Leader Arishma Chand

ARISHMA CHAND, PHOTOGRAPH PROVIDED BY ARISHMA CHAND, 2025

​Pacific Island nations, including Fiji, while bearing the brunt of the climate crisis, have long been recognised as global leaders in sustainable practices. This leadership is visible from the community level through to the business sector, including tourism.

From phasing out single-use plastics and implementing large-scale renewable energy projects, to coral planting, reef restoration and educational initiatives, the progress is both comprehensive and inspiring.

Arishma Chand, Climate Reality Leader and Sustainability Team Leader at Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, says she is proud to be part of a luxury brand that continues to focus on practices that serve communities, the planet, and the bottom line.

One such initiative is the reduction of single-use plastics, particularly plastic water bottles, supported by a filtration system for municipal water to reduce extractive practices.

“We have our own in-house water bottling station, which re-filters municipal water and fills it in food-grade glass bottles that are distributed to our rooms, lobby and gym.

“Having previously worked for a mineral water company, where water was sourced naturally, leading this initiative at Sofitel gave me broader knowledge that, apart from pure water extraction, there are other means by which we can produce safe drinking water and conserve mineral water for future generations.”
​

SINGLE USE PLASTIC BOTTLE ON A BEACH, PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF UNSPLASH, 2025

Having recently completed its first year of operations, the initiative is now demonstrating tangible economic benefits in addition to its environmental gains.
Across the hospitality industry, it is increasingly evident that balancing business goals with environmental responsibility can take many forms. For Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa, this means creating sustainable practices that enhance the guest experience, reduce operational costs, and strengthen brand reputation.
​
“Being a luxury brand, we have always promoted environmentally friendly products in terms of chemicals, in-house mulching of green waste, the use of fresh produce from local suppliers, flower gardens, medicinal plants and fruiting trees that enhance the overall beauty of the facilities,” Arishma explains. While Fiji is already leading the way on many fronts, Arishma believes there are exciting developments still to come, many of which will centre on people and technology.

FIJI LANDSCAPE, PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF UNSPLASH, 2025

“Personally, I believe that the power of social media and technology is playing a major role in educating and creating awareness among people on the importance of sustainability,” she says.

For Arishma’s own development as Sustainability Team Leader, the 2025 Climate Reality Leadership Training in Nadi has also been significant.
​
“By attending this training, I learned about the founders and groups who are working towards conservation plans that can help sustain the environment while also fostering upcoming developments in the hospitality industry.”
​
If you are interested in becoming a Climate Reality Leader or want to find out more about Climate Reality Project Australia & Pacific initiatives, please visit the training website and connect with us on social media.