At Anurak Lodge, our commitment to sustainability goes beyond minimizing our environmental impact. We have shifted from traditional footprint management to regenerative practices, and focus on creating lasting positive change for the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage in Khao Sok.
Our impact
227Trees planted through Rainforest Rising
465kg of fruits & vegetables harvested from our gardens
1,814kg of compost produced for our gardens
36staff hired from the community
The 4C’s
Anurak Lodge’s sustainability efforts are guided by The Long Runs 4C framework: Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce. This holistic approach ensures that we protect the natural environment, support and empower local communities, celebrate cultural heritage, and operate a responsible business. By balancing these four pillars, we aim to create a positive impact for both the planet and its people.
Conservation
Our mission is to restore and regenerate the natural ecosystems around us. From rewilding former palm oil land through Rainforest Rising to soil restoration, water management, and biodiversity enhancement, we work to heal our environment using nature-based solutions like our vegetable garden and composting.
Community
Tourism should benefit local people. By sourcing locally and investing in training and career development for our staff, we create meaningful jobs and support surrounding villages.
Culture
At Anurak Lodge, culture is dynamic. We celebrate the region’s local knowledge and connection to nature. Through crafts and community-based experiences, guests can engage with and learn from this evolving culture.
Commerce
Regenerative tourism thrives when communities and businesses grow together. By collaborating with local partners and guests, staying financially resilient, and sharing best practices, we create long-term value for both the community and the region.
The 12 Sustainability Cornerstones
As part of VHG Hospitality, we follow the 12 Sustainability Cornerstones: essential practices that guide how we operate. Each day we work on progressing and championing these 12 cornerstones to continuously improve for our guests, community, and environment.
We collect and monitor data on electricity, water, and waste, to improve every year.
We separate our waste into plastic, organic, and other recyclables, and dispose of them responsibly.
We turn food and garden waste into nutritious compost for our grounds .
We have a dedicated Green Team that leads our sustainability efforts.
We continuously invest in staff training and development.
We educate guests about our sustainability efforts.
We provide safe refillable drinking water on-site.
We reduce single-use plastics year by year, aiming for zero.
We are committed to restoring our property grounds and leave it better than we found it.
We celebrate local culture and promise to stay open to learning from our staff members & community.
We work together as one community , guests, staff, and locals, to create positive change.
We plan to invest in renewable energy before 2030.
Rainforest Rising
At Anurak Lodge, we’re committed to bringing the rainforest back to life. Rainforest Rising is our reforestation program dedicated to restoring a former oil palm plantation , which was once a thriving lowland evergreen forest. Our one-acre restoration site sits within the lodge’s grounds and borders Khao Sok National Park, creating an important refuge for local wildlife.
Now, we’re inviting our guests to take part in the journey. By planting a native sapling, you contribute directly to a living forest that will grow long after your stay .
At Anurak Lodge, almost all our activities take place off-property, ensuring that the money tourism generates goes directly back into the community.
We support local businesses by sourcing ingredients from farmers, crafts from small enterprises, and experiences from family-run activities. Every home-cooked meal, bamboo raft ride, or handmade souvenir helps local families thrive and keeps the economic benefits of tourism within the community.
Responsible guest experience
We believe responsible travel is a shared journey. When you stay at Anurak Lodge, you become part of our sustainability journey.
Anurak Lodge is currently proud to be Travelife Gold Certified.
Plant a tree through our Rainforest Rising program.
Conserve water and energy during your stay.
Avoid single-use plastics.
Support the local community & respect Thai culture.
Conservation
Community
Culture
Commerce
