Taj Madikeri Resort Coorg Champions Biodiversity as Its Sustainability Mission
Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg champions biodiversity as a part of its sustainability commitment.
By SOH Edit Team
IHCL’s ESG+ framework, Paathya integrates environmental stewardship, community development, and responsible operations into a unified long-term strategy across its portfolio. Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg exemplifies this vision through on-ground biodiversity conservation, resource efficiency, and community engagement initiatives.
Set within a 180-acre rainforest landscape, the resort was developed over seven years without cutting a single tree, utilising only 30 acres for built infrastructure.
Key sustainable construction practices focused on reducing environmental impact. Compressed stabilised earth blocks were produced on‑site from displaced soil and sun‑dried instead of baked, lowering emissions and achieving a near‑zero construction footprint.
Biodiversity Conservation & Guest Engagement
This ecological sensitivity has enabled a thriving biodiversity. The property supports 310 species of birds, 68 species of butterflies, 79 species of mammals, and 32 species of frogs.
With an Air Quality Index consistently below 3 and a fully plastic-free environment, the property delivers a sustainability-led guest experience.
A distinctive initiative is the Batracharium, established after scientific identification of frog species on-site. Guided by the in-house naturalist, it enhances awareness of regional amphibian diversity. The Biodiversity Photography Club further engages associates and guests in documenting the estate’s ecological wealth.
Resource Efficiency & Clean Energy Transition
Operational efficiency underpins the resort’s sustainability approach:
- Naturally ventilated public spaces reducing air-conditioning demand
- LED lighting and low-wattage outdoor illumination to minimise energy use and protect nocturnal fauna
- 100% wastewater treatment and reuse for irrigation and flushing
- Over 84% of electricity sourced from wind energy in the past two years
The resort has also transitioned to electric mobility across the estate, replacing petrol vehicles with Tata Punch EVs adapted for steep terrain. These zero-emission vehicles reduce noise pollution and minimise disturbance to wildlife, while safety enhancements improve accessibility, particularly for elderly guests.
Community integration remains central to operations:
- Over 31% of associates are recruited from neighbouring villages
- Partnerships with local artisans and regional producers strengthen livelihood creation and skill development
Through its integrated ESG+ approach, Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa, Coorg demonstrates how responsible luxury hospitality can coexist with biodiversity conservation and inclusive growth.
Experiential offerings:
- Guided rainforest walks
- A Butterfly Park
- Honey cultivation with 32 active bee colonies
- Pottery sessions using natural materials
- A heritage conservatory celebrating Kodava culture
