Sustainability at Amangiri

A trailblazer when it comes to blending nature with design, Amangiri’s iconic architecture seamlessly integrates into its environment. The original architects Marwan Al-Sayed, Wendell Burnette, and Rick Joy intentionally designed a true-to-form expression of the surrounding rock formations, using minerals in the building materials – mixed with recycled fly ash – which reflect light to capture the dynamic interplay between architecture and the ever-shifting natural light.

On opening in 2020, Camp Sarika followed suit, designed in a way that minimised the impact on the natural environment with all surrounding rock formations remaining completely untouched. In addition, each pavilion’s tented canvas is created from recycled plastic bottles. 

Amangiri is committed to preserving the beauty of the cosmos by adhering to the International Dark-Sky Association's (IDA) guidelines, in cooperation with its local community. Preserving the pristine darkness of the skies is essential for the well-being of our ecosystems, wildlife, cultural heritage and future generations. Every corner of the property has been meticulously planned to ensure that lighting is both functional and respectful of the night sky. From dimmed downward-directed lights in the halls, to minimal blue light emissions, this practice not only minimises light pollution but ensures the night sky views from Amangiri’s Suites and Pavilions remain eternally breathtaking.

Additionally, Amangiri offers captivating stargazing sessions in cooperation with a local observatory, educating guests on the wonders of the universe and promoting the preservation of dark skies. 

As a steward of the land, the resort encourages the "Leave No Trace" etiquette – a concept widely implemented across National Parks in the US to minimise human impact on the natural environment – when guests embark on the 12 miles of designated hiking trails. Resting on over 900 acres, the trails have been designed to respect the native wildlife, soil, and flora and fauna, offering guests unforgettable experiences and preserving the landscape for future generations to enjoy.   

Amangiri exemplifies its commitment to the local community through robust support for the education system. Recognising the importance of a thriving learning environment, the hotel donates to individual schools, offering a range of resources. From backpacks to ensure every child is equipped for academic success, to art materials that foster creativity and sporting equipment to promote physical wellbeing, the hotel's contributions span from kindergarten to high school.  

Aman is committed to embracing the culture of its destinations, creating a symbiotic relationship with its host community. At Amangiri, daily programming has been specially curated with long-standing local Native American partners. These unique and fulfilling cultural experiences offer guests the opportunity to learn more about the rich traditions, history and wisdom of Native American tribes, helping to support the local people and preserve their cultural heritage.  

Amangiri embraces a minimal waste approach. The property has eliminated all single-use items, including plastic bottles, using recyclable alternatives such as sugar cane straws and bamboo toothbrushes. Amangiri also recycles 100% of the aluminium water bottles provided to guests, along with cardboard boxes from deliveries, partnering with local companies for recycling processes, while impressively, 100% of food waste is donated to a local wildlife organisation. Amangiri will continue to expand its recycling programme as more options become available in this remote area. 

Additionally, with the ambition to extend the lifecycle of materials, the firewood used for the fireplaces has been sourced responsibly from dead trees – part of the ecosystem’s natural cycle – in nearby Kaibab National Forest, promoting the forest’s health and reducing waste.   Amangiri has also implemented technologies across its hotel operation, reducing paper usage by more than 50%, while enhancing the guest experience.  

As climate change progresses, the resort is committed to advancing its clean energy consumption and supporting renewable energy. Harnessing the abundance of natural light in its vast desert surrounds, Amangiri has a large solar field which generates electricity from the sunlight, while the resort’s fleet of BMW vehicles also includes electric cars. Additionally, both Amangiri and Camp Sarika have transitioned to LED lighting, substituting all incandescent and halogen bulbs, and motion sensors have been installed to enhance energy efficiency and implement intelligent lighting systems.