How Olas Tulum Achieved Platinum LEED Certification

At Olas Tulum, sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s the guiding principle behind every decision we make. We are incredibly proud to hold a Platinum LEED certification, the highest level of recognition for green building design and construction. But what does that really mean, and what did it take to get here?

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. Achieving Platinum status is a rigorous process that requires a holistic approach to sustainability. For Olas, it was about creating a regenerative impact on the environment and the community from the ground up.

Key Strategies that Earned Our Certification

1. Energy Efficiency through Solar Power: We are completely off the grid. Our entire operation, from lighting to refrigeration, is powered by a state-of-the-art solar panel system. This commitment to renewable energy ensures we have a minimal carbon footprint.

2. Passive Architectural Design: The original 1970s design of the house, by Austrian engineer Carlos Schober, was our blueprint. The building’s intentionally curved walls and use of mature coconut groves provide natural shade and air circulation. We restored this design, ensuring our guests can stay cool and comfortable without the need for air conditioning, a major energy consumer.

3. Water Conservation and Management: Our property uses a dual system for water management. We have multiple rain-collection systems that provide water for non-potable uses. Additionally, we tap into a pure, underwater stream that is gravity-fed directly into our sinks and showers, reducing the need for energy-intensive pumps.

4. Waste Reduction and Recycling: We work hard to minimize our waste. All our cleaning and bathroom products are organic and biodegradable, ensuring they don't harm the cenotes or the ocean. We also have a robust composting program and avoid single-use plastics whenever possible.

5. Supporting Local and Sustainable Sourcing: Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our walls. We source all of our food and coffee from local, organic farms and vendors. This supports the local economy, reduces transportation emissions, and provides our guests with the freshest, most delicious meals.

The Olas Difference

Achieving Platinum LEED certification wasn't easy, but it was essential to our vision of a truly authentic and responsible hotel. When you stay at Olas, you're not just booking a room; you're supporting a model of tourism that values the planet and its people. This allows us to offer an escape that is not only beautiful and serene but also deeply meaningful.