KAANAPALI – Aqua-Aston Hospitality last week announced the completion of a year-long sustainability enhancement project at Maui Kaanapali Villas.

Because of the project, the 260-room resort has been able to slash carbon dioxide emissions by an amount equivalent to the CO2 emissions from 26,434 barrels of oil, 2,173 passenger vehicles, or the energy supplied to 967 homes for an entire year.

“We were able to significantly reduce our CO2 emissions because the project helped us reduce power and water consumption, and because we introduced new recycling and waste reduction SOPs for glass, aluminum, paper and food waste. We’re proud to do our part in helping to preserve and protect the stunning natural beauty that our guests come to Maui to enjoy,” said Hal Nordblom, general manager of Maui Kaanapali Villas.

The project included improvements to the plumbing and wastewater infrastructure, and the installation of a modernized air conditioning system, photovoltaic panels, a solar heating system for the resort’s two swimming pools, and more than 500 LED light bulbs along walkways throughout the 11-acre resort.

This year, Maui Kaanapali Villas was recognized by TripAdvisor with a “Certificate of Excellence” after receiving over 500 “excellent” ratings, and it was named “one of Hawaii’s best hotels” by readers of HAWAII Magazine in the annual Readers’ Choice Awards.

The resort is operated by Aqua-Aston Hospitality, one of the largest hotel and resort-condo operators in Hawaii.

“Aqua-Aston Hospitality is committed to sustainable tourism, and we are proud to support the introduction of more sustainable practices wherever we operate,” said Ed Skapinok, senior vice president of sales, marketing and revenue for Aqua-Aston Hospitality.