At Sofia Colombo, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in creating a positive impact on the environment, our communities, and future generations through responsible and innovative practices.

Together, we can build a more sustainable future. Learn more about our ongoing initiatives and join us in making a difference.

Vision Statement

“Our commitment is to deliver exceptional service integrating responsible practices while fulfilling social responsibilities, by collaborating with partners to create value for guests and stakeholders and foster a loyal and supportive workplace where associates can thrive through sustainable tourism for a healthier planet.”

Objectives

• • • Enhance Guest Participation in Sustainable Practices through Effective and Engaging Communication
    • Foster a culture of sustainability, equity, and well-being among associates and maintain transparency among the stakeholders
    • Stimulate Responsible consumption through sustainable food practices and smart operations to reduce carbon footprint for a healthier planet

Environmental Policy

At Sofia Colombo City Hotel, we recognize that our location in a rapidly developing urban environment requires special responsibility to reduce environmental impact. We are committed to leading sustainable hospitality in Colombo by protecting natural resources, reducing emissions, and fostering eco-conscious operations.

Our Environmental Policy encompasses the following principles:

1. Environmental Compliance: We comply with all environmental regulations, and city guidelines relevant to urban hospitality in Sri Lanka.
2. Resource Conservation: We actively reduce energy, water, and material usage through smart technologies and behavioral change to reduce our carbon footprint.
3. Urban Biodiversity Support: We promote vertical gardens, rooftop greenery, Protecting Marine ecosystem with partners, and native plant species to support biodiversity in the cityscape.
4. Waste Management: We follow 5R policy (Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle) to minimize landfill waste and promote composting and recycling.
5. Green Building Practices: We maintain and upgrade our facility based on green building standards such as LEED.
6. Employee Training: Our staff are trained for sustainability practices to uphold green practices in daily operations and guest engagement.
7. Guest Awareness: We encourage guests to participate in sustainability through linen reuse programs, save water concept, carbon emission reduction and low-waste dining.
8. Transparency and Reporting: We publish regular sustainability reports and communicate progress to stakeholders and the public.

Community Engagement Policy

At Sofia Colombo City Hotel, we believe in creating shared value through strong relationships with our local community. As a city hotel, we are uniquely positioned to make a lasting impact by supporting inclusive growth, local culture, and social equity.

Our Community Engagement Policy encompasses the following principles:

1. Local Partnership Building: We collaborate with Colombo-based NGOs, schools, sustainability clubs, and local government authorities to design and implement meaningful community projects.
2. Employment Opportunities: We prioritize hiring from the local community, especially youth and marginalized groups, offering fair employment and skill-building opportunities.
3. Education and Training: We offer hospitality internships, and sustainability awareness sessions to empower the staff.
4. Local Supplier Empowerment:  We source goods and services from small and medium local enterprises, including farmers, artisans, and social enterprises.
5. Cultural Support: We promote Sri Lankan arts, crafts, and traditions through hotel-based performances, presenting local culture and local collaborations.
6. CSR Initiatives: We organize staff volunteer days and guest-participation events that contribute directly to community well-being, such as donation drives and sustainability workshops.

Procurement & Purchasing Policy

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all purchasing practices at Sofia Colombo City Hotel support sustainable practices while maintaining quality, efficiency, and ethical responsibility. Our procurement strategy aligns with our sustainability commitment by reducing environmental impact, supporting local economies, and minimizing operational waste.

1. Local Supplier Priority- Priority is given to local suppliers when sourcing all products, promoting community economic development and reducing transportation-related emissions.
2. Local Market Procurement for Fresh Produce – Fresh vegetables and fruits are purchased from the Pettah Market (Kala Pola), supporting small-scale local vendors and ensuring freshness through short supply chains
3. Support for Local Handicrafts – Items sold in the souvenir shop are sourced from local handicraft suppliers, preserving Sri Lankan cultural heritage and supporting artisan livelihoods
4. Minimum Stock Level & Forecast Monitoring – Inventory levels are maintained at minimum thresholds, and all purchasing is monitored against occupancy forecasts to avoid overstocking and reduce operational waste
5. First-In, First-Out (FIFO) Method – All store issues strictly follow the FIFO procedure to ensure older stock is issued first, minimizing spoilage and waste
6. Priority for Sustainable-Certified Suppliers – We give preference to suppliers who demonstrate sustainable practices or hold certifications such as organic, fair trade, ISO 14001, or other recognized environmental/social standards. This helps to drive responsible business ecosystems
7. Ethical & Timely Supplier Payments – At Sofia Colombo, we maintain a strict policy of ethical supplier relations. We ensure prompt payments for goods and services without delay or deferral, fostering trust, fairness, and long-term partnerships
8. Promoting Staff Participation in Sustainable Purchasing – Associates are encouraged to support resource-efficient and cost-conscious purchasing, backed by awareness programs and department-level coordination to reduce unnecessary procurement and encourage responsible decision-making
9. Monitoring and Reporting – All purchases and issues are systematically monitored, and regular reports are generated to track usage patterns and guide responsible procurement decisions

Human Resource Policy

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all human resource practices at Sofia Colombo City Hotel support our sustainable Practices while fostering a workplace culture built on diversity, inclusivity, and equity for well-being of employee in the organization.

1. Fair & Inclusive Employment – Recruitment practices are fair, transparent, and based on skills and qualifications. We ensure equal opportunity for all individuals regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or background. Local hiring is prioritized to uplift community livelihoods.
2. Non-Discrimination – We maintain a zero-tolerance towards any form of discrimination or bias in recruitment, training, promotion, or daily operations. Every associate is treated with dignity and respect
3. Equal Promotion Opportunities – All team members have equal access to career growth, based on performance, commitment, and capability. Promotions are guided by a transparent process, free from favouritism or inequality
4. Local Community Enrolment and Development – We actively engage with the local community by offering internships, training opportunities, and educational partnerships with educational institutions. This strengthens both our talent pipeline and our industry impact
5. Grievance Handling – A clear, confidential grievance-handling procedure is in place. All employees can raise concerns safely, and each case is handled fairly, respectfully, and without retaliation
6. Personal Grooming & Professional Standards – All associates are expected to maintain high standards of personal hygiene and grooming, in line with hotel image and guest expectations. Regular grooming guidelines are communicated and supported with training if needed
7. Employee Benefits – Employees receive fair compensation and benefits in accordance with Sri Lankan labour law, including: EPF/ETF contributions, Annual leave, maternity leave, and sick leave, Meals, uniforms and accommodations, where applicable

Grievance Handling Policy

At Sofia Colombo City Hotel, we are committed to fostering a respectful, fair, and open work environment. This Grievance Handling Policy provides a clear and confidential process for associates to raise concerns, ensuring that issues are addressed promptly, professionally, and without fear of retaliation. It reflects our dedication to maintaining a supportive workplace where every voice is heard.

1. Equal for All Associates – This policy applies to all employees, permanent, contract, and trainees, ensuring every associate has equal opportunity to voice concerns.
2. Step-by-Step Reporting Process – Associates should first report grievances to their manager or Head of Department, who must respond within 3 working days. If unsatisfied, the issue can be escalated to the HR Manager, and finally to the General Manager.
3. Timely Response & Escalation Timeline
   • Manager/ HOD: 3 working days
   • HR Manager: 2 working days
   • General Manager: 3 working days to schedule a meeting
4. Confidentiality & Trust – All concerns will be treated with strict confidentiality, unless disclosure is necessary for resolution. Associates may also request anonymity when appropriate.
5. Suggestion Box Option – Associates may drop written grievances into the Suggestion Box in the meal room. It is opened bi-weekly by the HR Manager and can be used anonymously or with a name.
6. Encouragement to Approach Direct Supervisors First – Whenever possible, associates are encouraged to approach their direct manager first, as they are closest to the matter and often best positioned to provide immediate support.
7. Ladies Affairs Committee – A dedicated Ladies Affairs Committee is in place to address and support concerns specifically related to female staff. The committee is run by female associates and includes representatives such as the GM’s Secretary, Front Office Manager, Sales Head, and HR Officer. It serves as a safe and empowering space for women to voice workplace matters, share ideas, and find support in a respectful and confidential setting. 
8. “Tea with GM” – Open Dialogue Initiative – To promote open communication and a people-first culture, Sofia Colombo City Hotel hosts a “Tea with GM” session, where team members from each department are invited to enjoy tea and engage in direct, informal conversation with the General Manager.
9. Supportive & Respectful Culture – The policy promotes a safe, respectful, and supportive workplace, where feedback is encouraged, concerns are addressed fairly, and all voices are valued.