Meet Hirokazu ‘Hiro’ Kasuya, Our Sustainability Manager

Hirokazu Kasuya plays a key role at Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui as our Sustainability Manager. His efforts have been central to driving eco-friendly practices throughout the resort, reducing our environmental impact while encouraging both guests and team members to live more sustainably.

Through his leadership, we’ve deepened our connection with the local community and expanded our sustainability education efforts. Hirokazu continues to lead new initiatives focused on biodiversity and reducing single-use plastics, reinforcing our commitment to responsible tourism on Koh Samui.

Welcome to Our Organic Garden

Established in 2003, our 8,000-square-metre organic garden provides fresh vegetables, herbs, flowers, and plants used throughout the resort. It’s also home to a variety of sustainable practices, including citronella distillation, plant propagation, composting food waste into organic fertilizer, and producing charcoal from reclaimed wood and fallen trees.

Responsible Waste Management

Our approach to waste management combines environmental care with practical creativity. Organic waste from the kitchen and staff canteen is composted in our garden, while single-use plastics are replaced with biodegradable or reusable alternatives like lemongrass straws, refillable water bottles, and eco-friendly toiletries.

We also repurpose materials wherever possible - old cushion covers become delivery bags for suppliers, and recycled items are crafted into décor such as lamps and door hangings. Even carrot pulp is reused in the kitchen, reflecting our commitment to sustainability in every detail.

Low-Impact Mobility & Eco-Cleaning

To reduce air pollution, conventional vehicles are restricted within the resort. Guests Park in designated areas and are transported by electric buggies. We also promote non-motorized beach activities like kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding -offering enjoyable, low-impact ways to experience our natural surroundings.

Chemical Reduction

We use natural cleaning solutions across the resort, including fermented fruit cleansers and chemical-free laundry products. Composting kitchen waste and garden trimmings supports our zero-waste approach, helping to reduce chemical use and protect the local ecosystem.
 

Raising Awareness & Community Support

We are committed to supporting our local community through meaningful initiatives such as tree planting at schools, beach and temple clean-ups, and donating used linen to animal-care facilities.
 

Greater Good Grant (GGG) – In line with Banyan Group’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the GGG supports impactful community projects. In 2024, we installed a solar-powered drinking water system at Baanplailam School, providing clean water and sustainability education. This project was recognized as one of the group’s top five initiatives of the year.

Green Imperative Fund (GIF) – Through our “Stay for Good” program, guests can contribute USD 1 per night, matched by the resort, to support local causes including food donations, animal care, and waste clean-up efforts in Koh Phangan.

Seedling Program – We also support two students from Theeparatpittaya School with financial assistance and mentorship, helping nurture future community leaders.