October 23, 2020
Monaco leads the way in sustainable luxury
Sustainable luxury is evident almost everywhere in Monaco, one of the world’s most sustainable countries. Discover some of its leading eco-credentials here.
Luxury and sustainability go hand in glove these days, as the concept of sustainable luxury is embraced by residential developments, hotels and restaurants in Monaco — with carmakers and superyachts on board as well.
In one of the world’s most sustainable countries, the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation has been dedicated to the protection of the environment and the promotion of sustainable development since 2016. The country’s goal is to be carbon neutral by 2050.
The principality is known for its green culture, encompassing lush gardens and parks, certified green hotels that seamlessly combine environmentally conscious elements and luxe accommodations, unparalleled residential developments with the latest in green technology, and urban gardens that support restaurants’ organic cuisine.
Here are just a few ways sustainable luxury is evident in the principality – Sustainable luxury in Monaco
Eco-friendly buildings
The emphasis on the eco-friendly building has resulted in residential developments offering sustainable luxury with innovative green features. Photovoltaic solar energy panels help reduce the carbon footprint, rainwater is recovered for later use, charging stations are provided for electric vehicles, and extensive pedestrian promenades replace traffic-clogged routes. Buildings feature sustainably forested wood, and native trees and plants in landscaping and rooftop gardens highlight Monaco’s green culture. These features and more are showcased in Monte Carlo real estate for sale.
Green teams
Sustainable luxury is by no means limited to residential developments in Monaco. The principality’s major hotels have earned environmental certifications, as “green teams” among the properties have developed ways to reduce the carbon footprint. Underground pumps generate clean energy from seawater to power heating and air conditioning systems, greywater is recycled, and green and fair trade products are used. Lush gardens preserve biodiversity, and hotel restaurants pride themselves on serving only sustainable seafood.
One hotel houses the first certified organic restaurant to be awarded a Michelin star, and others offer diners a customised “la petite boite” to take their unfinished dishes and bottles. Also, one enterprising entrepreneur grows organic fruits and vegetables on Monaco’s rooftops and balconies to meet the needs of chefs de cuisine.
Eco-friendly travel
Monaco is also a favoured port of large superyachts, which offer sustainable luxury on the seas. Diesel-electric superyachts save fuel and help reduce the vessel’s carbon dioxide footprint, while the ability to cruise silently benefits marine life and enhances comfort onboard. Wastewater recycling systems and on-deck solar panels are among the eco-savvy features of these sleek, stylish superyachts.
Last but not least, as Monaco is known for its cars as well, sustainable luxury is evident in automakers’ latest high-end models, including the Bentley Bentayga Hybrid, the completely electric Aston Martin Rapide E (featured in Monaco’s E-Prix), the Mercedes-Benz EQC, the Jaguar I-PACE, and the Porsche Taycan. Not to be outdone, both Lamborghini and Ferrari have future model e-cars on the drawing board.
So, to answer the question – not only is luxury sustainable, but increasingly obtainable, as one of the most sustainable countries in the world sets the example for the many ways it can be achieved in grand style.