Spotlight on Sustainable Tourism (SOST) by Spotlight on Sustainable Tourism (SOST)

Issue 13 ● June 2014 ISSN 2227-4065

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

Mission Hills, China Jetwing Vil Uyana, Sri Lanka

Feature: Six Senses Con Dao, Vietnam

‘

Point of View: Fluid Destination’: Innovative, but who will protect it?

Green Showcase: Chumbe Island, Zanzibar

Contents

Kumud Sengupta Managing Editor email:

m.ed@sostinternational.com

23 SOST TEAM M. Ivanova

Contents

B. Thomas J. Vaz

SOST June 2014

ABOUT SOST

Editorial

Feedback:

SOST gets feedback from around the world

23 Point of View: Fluid Destination’: Innovative, but who will protect it?

27 Market Intelligence:

Market Vision for internal circulation and to our clients and

News & Events:

Greening Cruise Tourism

Green Showcase:

Chumbe Island, Zanzibar

07 Feature: Six Senses Con Dao, Vietnam

• •

(SOST) is an e-journal published by

subscribers.

SOST shares news and updates on its activities

Spotlight on Sustainable Tourism

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism: In the Spotlight:

Mission Hills, China Jetwing Vil Uyana, Sri Lanka

on: www.sostinternational.com

Green Business Directory

Listing of Eco-businesses

It is available to our website visitors

Market Vision:

- Travel & Tourism Research & Consulting - Sustainable Travel Development – Advisory Services

Market Vision Research & Consulting Services FZ-LLC P.O. Box 32394, Dubai, UAE Tel: +9714-3911241 Fax: +9714-3911245 www.market-vision.com

Editorial

SOST wishes its readers Ramadan Kareem.

SOST’s mission is to motivate stakeholders in the travel & tourism industry to adopt sustainable business practices with the message that sustainable tourism is ‘Good for the Planet and Good for Business’.

As we go into the summer holiday season, the travel and tourism sector goes into high gear, with millions of people around the world looking to book new, unique holiday experiences. I hope all of us in this industry play our part in encouraging them to patronize those in the travel supply chain that practice responsible tourism. In this issue, SOST showcases some great examples that we can be proud of. Our main feature is on Six Senses Con Dao in Vietnam, recognized by National Geographic Traveller as one of the world’s top eco-lodges. In our Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism feature, we showcase Mission Hills located in the tropical island of Hainan in China, recognized as the leading golf and leisure brand in the world, and Jetwing Vil Uyana in Sri Lanka, voted as the Winner of the Environment Award in the WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow Awards 2014. In Green Showcase, we present Chumbe Island Coral Park, an award-winning private nature reserve that was developed for the conservation and sustainable management of uninhabited Chumbe Island off Zanzibar, one of the last pristine coral islands in the region. In the column Point of View, contributing author Dr. Dileep M.R. PhD, Tourism Academician, Author and Columnist, currently working as faculty with Ministry of Higher Education, Sultanate of Oman, speaks about the importance of backwater conservation in his article ‘Fluid Destination’: Innovative, but who will protect it? There’s more in the Market Intelligence and News and Events sections. The Business Directory has some new additions – do have a look. We hope you enjoy this issue. As always, we look forward to your comments and feedback. Let us know what else you would like to read about. Happy Reading!

Kumud Sengupta Managing Editor Certified Assessor & Consultant for Sustainable Tourism Founder-Director, Market Vision

Feedback

SOST is a great read packed with informative information about sustainable tourism. I've recommended it to many of my colleagues that work in the hospitality and tourism sector in Asia. Peter Semone Chief Technical Adviser Lao National Institute of Tourism & Hospitality Laos

Spotlight on Sustainable Tourism (SOST) is a great e-Journal that allows travellers/stakeholders who are willing to look for a responsible way of travel, to find new destinations. At the same time, it allows practitioners’ responsible initiatives to get more publicity about their products and their way of practicing sustainable tourism. It’s a digital marketing tool that gives stakeholders an opportunity to look for unique sustainable tourism products and ideas. Michael Awad Executive Director Siraj Centre Palestine

SOST has contributed a lot to my knowledge about sustainable tourism, and has sparked my interest in higher education in the subject. Radhika Kumar Dubai, UAE The passion with which the SOST journal is produced comes through – keep it up. It’s a laudable initiative. N. Nandala Kampala, Uganda SOST covers the right issues. Tourism must be sensitive to the local needs and nature conservation is an important feature. Let us all be responsible. Shakti Banerjee Honorary Director, Wildlife Protection Society of India Kolkata, India Wow! This is a great publication. Great articles. Nixon Abuja Tours & Marketing Executive, Kent Tours Kenya

SOST is read by a diverse audience consisting of professionals in the tourism industry, tourism business owners, destination marketers and academia. It has particularly found favour with those interested in sustainable and responsible tourism. SOST is promoted to (a) a growing database of subscribers and customers numbering over 10,000 travel and tourism industry professionals, and (b) online business networks with memberships exceeding 100,000. It is also read by visitors to its recently launched website: www.sostinternational.com, and Facebook page: www.facebook.com/sostjournal. Twitter account @SOST_intl has also been recently launched – do follow us. Launched in March 2012, four issues of SOST were published in the year. Since 2013, SOST is a bimonthly publication (six issues per year). For sponsorship and advertising details, please contact: advertise@sostinternational.com.

News & Events

PATA, CBI and Travelife to promote sustainability in tourism in Asia The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Travelife, and The Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries (CBI) have decided to promote sustainability among tour operators and travel agents in Asia Pacific. On May 18, 2014 in Zhuhai, China was signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Following this signing. PATA members will have access to the Travelife sustainability training and management tools so that they can integrate socially and environmentally responsible practices into company operations. European travel associations have started a programme that will help travel companies and their suppliers achieves ustainability through training, management, reporting and external

recognition and certification. PATA would support all members, wishing to implement socially and environmentally responsible business practices. PATA CEO Martin Craigs said: “PATA forecasts that international visitor arrivals in Asia will grow at 6.3% per year up to 2018. With Travelife internal procedures in place, tour operators and travel agents will be able to combine growth with sustainable, measurable practices.” CBI, an agency of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, encourages imports from developing countries by enhancing the capacity of individual companies and business support organizations. CBI’s primary objective is to support the sustainable growth of tourism in line with

its Sustainable Tourism Development Program Asia 2013-2017. CBI will facilitate PATA in its sustainability objectives through training and capacity building. On signing the MOU, Naut Kusters, Manager for Travelife for Tour operators, said: “The support of PATA and CBI for Travelife is a historic step towards a sustainable travel industry. It will spread global CSR and sustainability standards and best practices amongst Asian tour operators. It will provide direction to committed tour operators and recognition for front runners.” Source: http://www.eturbonews.com/46076/patacbi-and-travelife-promote-sustainability-tourismasia

Farm tourism is Philippines’ sunshine industry The Philippines’ emerging farm tourism sector got a major push as a driver of inclusive economic growth in the Farm Tourism Conference held recently in Daet, Camarines Norte.

communities socially and economically. “Farm tourism attracts visitors and travelers to farm areas, generally for educational and recreational purposes to encourage economic activity to provide farm and community income,” she says.

The three-day discussion, organized by the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST) and the province of Camarines Norte and supported by the Department of Tourism (DOT), put the spotlight on the unique combination of agriculture and tourism. Guest speaker Sen. Cynthia Villar says that farm tourism is one of the country’s sunshine industries that can be exploited because of the agricultural nature of the economy.

This involves the community and its benefits should be distributed to stakeholders to ensure sustainable tourism and inclusive development. The gathering also showcased the successful farm camps across the country such as the Sunflower Farms in Ligao City, Albay; Rapha Valley in Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental and others.

ISST President and Project Director Dr. Mina Gabor says farm camps focus on low-impact travel and empowers local

The integration of tourism and farming allows more efficient resource utilization which can provide jobs, increase income, business opportunities and reduce urban migration.

Homestays is another potential sector in the tourism industry that can benefit people at the community level. The Farm Tourism Conference is in line with the theme of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) for this year, “Tourism and Community Development,” which emphasizes tourism’s vital role in spreading its economic fruits to the grassroots. The gathering was attended by local government executives, municipal tourism and agricultural officers, barangay officials, entrepreneurs and community stakeholders from various provinces, which have potentials in agriculture- and rural-based tourism. Source: https://ph.celebrity.yahoo.com/news/farmtourism-ph-sunshine-industry-160839196.html

News & Events

Southern Africa turns into tourism nerve centre Zimbabwe was named the best tourist destination for 2014 by the European Council on Tourism and Trade.

only desert in the world to be inhabited by lions, elephants and rhinos.

Zimbabwe’s success story is one that must be shared by the rest of its neighbours in the SADC region whose calm environment synchronised with that of Zimbabwe making it possible to be accorded the prestigious title for 2014.

According to Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), the tourism industry in the region has grown rapidly in recent years contributing US$940 billion to the world economy in 2010, but the region has receipted only a small percentage of this figure.

The region boasts of Great Zimbabwe, the second largest ancient man-made structure in Africa, Victoria Falls, one of the seven wonders of the world which is shared by Zimbabwe and Zambia, the Namib desert in Namibia, which is the

The SADC region has an edge over other parts of the region in being a favoured tourist destination in a number of ways. Firstly, the region enjoys socio-political stability which is an absentee in other parts of the continent.

This leaves the Southern African region as the only secure tourist destination on the continent hence the need to capitalise on marketing our destination to the rest of the world. Secondly, the SADC region has two of the continent’s economic powers, South Africa and Angola, who are second and third respectively and if intra – SADC cooperation is implemented they can help with lending other less fortunate states with funding to boost tourism infrastructure. Source: http://www.sustainabletourismalliance.co.za/south ern-africa-turns-into-tourism-nerve-centre/ Pictures: http://funny-pictures.picphotos.net/world-africatable-mountain-wallpaper/ http://www.wallrgb.com/

Tourism dept uses environmental criteria in hotelranking system TO mitigate the impact of the tourism industry on climate change and promote sustainable tourism, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has incorporated an environmental component in its new accreditation system for hotels, resorts and other accommodations. This, as participants in the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)Association of Southeast Asian Nations International Conference on Tourism and Climate Change last week adopted in principle the Legazpi Declaration on Tourism’s Response to Climate Change, a significant step in the long-term battle to mitigate the effect of the tourism sector on global warming. The declaration was adopted after a twoday conference in Legazpi City, Albay, which ended on May 20, and attracted over

600 participants from 18 countries, including global leaders, scientific exports, and representatives of local and international tourism establishments. Tourism Assistant Secretary for Tourism Development Planning Rolando Canizal said the recent signing up of 14 tourism establishments and organizations to the UNWTO Global Ethics on Tourism “makes establishments more aware of their responsibilities toward reducing their impact on climate change.”

development. •Increase coordination among relevant agencies, NGOs, international bodies and the private sector in making tourism an instrument to accelerate the shift toward more sustainable consumption and production patterns.

The Legazpi Declaration binds the conference participants to:

•Consider climate-change impact and vulnerability assessments within broader risk-management processes in order to develop and implement climateresilience and -adaptation measures to minimize the impact of climate change on tourism

•Provide clear, evidence-based information and policy guidance to national and local governments to enable them to establish, pursue and prioritize low-carbon strategies for tourism

•Encourage private investment, corporate responsibility and business practices consistent with socioenvironment protection and climate resilience etc. Source: http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/index.php/en/n ews/top-news/32935-tourism-dept-usesenvironmental-criteria-in-hotel-ranking-system

Six Senses

Feature

Six Senses Con Dao, Vietnam Amber Marie Beard, Vice President of Sustainability, Six Senses Con dao

Six Senses Con Dao opened in December of 2010 and is located south of Ho Chi Minh City; accessible by a 40-minute plane ride to the largest island of the archipelago, Con Son. Operated by Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, a hotel and spa management company, it has been recognized by National Geographic Traveller as one of the world’s top eco-lodges. In this interview, Amber Marie Beard, Vice President of Sustainability, shares with us the sustainability philosophy, features and practices at this amazing eco-lodge. What was the motivation behind setting up such a project in Vietnam? Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas have always fit well within the Vietnamese culture. Con Dao fits perfectly as it is remote but accessible. The region is pristine, but also important for us to make a social and environmental impact; something that is very close to our operating philosophy. Does Six Senses Con Dao have an established sustainability policy? What are the key tenets of this policy and what measures are taken to monitor performance and progress in meeting sustainability targets? Six Senses Con Dao (SSCD) is committed to Six Senses overarching position on sustainability which is built on acknowledging, and being held accountable for, our responsibility as members in our local and global community.

We are aware that we are responsible not only to our guests but to our hosts and also the local communities and ecosystems that we develop and operate in. Six Senses sustainability is, and always has been, integrated, intuitive and innovative. Powered by passion and driven by pragmatism our actions are both measurable and meaningful. Six Senses sustainability is at the heart of our decisions and actions as a company, hotel, resort, spa or host. Recognizing that everything we do is designed to provide a platform for experiencing the simple beauty of nature, ensuring that we have one that is life-rich is why sustainability is much more than CSR for Six Senses; it is just good business. Six Senses sustainability is not about sacrifice, rather it is a celebration of abundance. The unique environments, cultures and experiences we share with

our guests are not meant to be experienced just once. Sustainability ensures that future generations can enjoy them with Six Senses for years to come. Our approach to sustainability is built on three key tenants:  Self-sustaining – We aspire to operate in a manner which is self-reliant, has either a zero or positive impact on our local community and environment, and is resilient to ever changing challenges to sustainability.  Legacy – We aspire to ensure that the places we create promote/support community development, health, cultural preservation and environmental protection for our guests, hosts and local communities to enjoy for

Feature

Six Senses

generations to come.  Social Equity – We aspire to be champions of equality and accessibility for all wherever we operate and to enhance the quality of life in the communities we call ‘home’. Monitoring and Measurement Sustainability is integrated throughout all functions of the company. It is supported by a framework of mandatory guidelines, annual sustainability assessment and action plan for each property, training, incentives, metrics accounting, incentives, the Sustainability Fund and our Sustainability Team. The mechanisms used for monitoring and measuring are:  Mandatory Sustainability Guidelines and Annual Sustainability Assessments / Action Plans Required for new development, property upgrades and operational practices. On existing properties, an annual assessment is performed by the Vice President of Sustainability and action plan developed in areas of non-compliance with the Guidelines and any other special sustainability projects. • Metrics Accounting Currently includes energy ( plus carbon), water and waste. This is being upgraded to include water bottling, host training

hours, host community engagement hours, sustainable food (generated on-site) and carbon associated with guest transfers).

the 16 island Con Dao archipelago and it is considered the premier National Park in Viet Nam.

• Sustainability Team Comprised of a Sustainability Champion from each property which supports the monitoring and measurement across the portfolio.

The whole resort has been built to take advantage of the year round prevailing winds to help keep villas naturally cool. All buildings are in keeping with the natural surroundings, that is, no large obtrusive concrete structures, and it is the only resort to do so on Con Dao.

What makes Con Dao unique? What makes it ecologically friendly? SSCD is the only five star luxury resort on

There are several factors that make this resort ecologically friendly.

Six Senses Feature

Most of our building materials are timber, either reclaimed or harvested from sustainable sources. Six Senses sustainability mandatory guidelines help to make a huge impact from the way we deal with garbage (for example, this year we aim to try and make every property including Con Dao zero waste, meaning every resource we use is used to its full potential before being recycled). We employ water recovery systems and our own sewerage treatment works that allow us to reuse the treated water for irrigation. We grow our own fruits and vegetables, which over the last three months has produced nearly one ton of produce. Where possible, all produce is locally sourced, not only reducing logistical impact, but helping to support the community. Despite being a luxury resort, Six Senses Con Dao embraces a leadership role in nature conservation. Please tell us more about your Bay Protection programme. The Bay Protection programme was proposed in association with the Con Dao National Park. At this time we are running our own conservation programmes because of the high fees associated with the park and lack of transparency on how the funds are spent. SSCD regularly invites nature biologists / experts who have helped to catalogue the amazing bio-diversity on the island (so far they have catalogued three species previously unrecorded and one that was thought to be extinct on the island). With their help we run programs to

educate our hosts on the local wildlife focusing on those species which are perceived to be dangerous, such as snakes, why they should not be killed and their role within the local ecology. In addition, we with also work with the biodiversity group and Change, which run the PEEK program (Photography Educating & Empowering Kids). This program takes local kids into wildlife environments where they are given a small lecture on the local environment and then they use digital cameras to record different flora and fauna specimens. These pictures are then uploaded to www.inaturalsit.org where an army of experts can help then to identify these specimens. What type of environmental education & training do you provide to your staff? Do you have a Respectful Code of Conduct for guests? We provide Sustainability Training to all our hosts. This training bridges the gap

in understanding what sustainability is (i.e. more than just â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenâ&#x20AC;?) and empowers our hosts to take responsibility for their own actions, both while at work and at home. Department specific sustainability training is currently being developed and is to be rolled out this year. Hosts are also asked to participate in our community engagement activities. While we do not have a specific Environmental and Respectful Code of Conduct for guests, we do have our Little Green Book within each villa that includes information on the local environment, community and culture. Each guest also has a GEM (Guest Experience Maker) who helps to share cultural and environmental information with him/her. And these guest experiences are led by our hosts who brief them on any sensitivities or other considerations regarding conduct for the guest to follow depending on the experience such as local village tours, scuba diving, turtle watching, etc.

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Six Senses

We provide Sustainability Training to all our Hosts. This training bridges the gap in understanding what sustainability is (i.e. more than just “green”) and empowers our Hosts to take responsibility for their own actions. What measurable impact has been made on the local environment in which you operate? Could you provide details about the ‘Water for Kids’ program and the ‘Turtle Club’ initiatives? The Water for Kids program is actually more of a Clean Drinking Water initiative. The idea is that through the sales of own water (produced in-house) we can supply, install and maintain drinking water systems in the local town. So far we have supplied a Reverse Osmosis & UV treatment plant to a local school and the local hospital. We are currently looking to find a third sponsor. The Turtle Club initiative has two purposes. The first is to draw attention to the silent plague across Viet Nam, which is that drowning is the number one cause of death for children over the age of one. On average, 15 children per day die from drowning in the country. The second part

of this program is designed to take local Six Senses hosts (initially just one, but we are hoping to build on this in the future), train them to teach swimming to internationally levels, and then have them teach local kids to swim and recognise safe swimming conditions, for free. Right now we are trying to arrange training for our chosen host with the Swim Vietnam organisation based in Hoi An. Once competed, then we can start the training programs. We are aiming for a July launch. Please provide some insights into your customers’ profile, and what motivates them to stay at Six Senses Con Dao? Our year round business is well spread out from European and Asian markets; in particular, the UK, France, Germany, Korea, Japan and Hong Kong. They are affluent travellers who have experienced many forms of luxury and

are looking for the next level of luxury. Emotional experiences are what they seek, and these are what stay with them after departure from the resort. Gender matters not, and the age group varies depending on whether we are talking about honeymooners or cross-generation family visits. While we do see our fair share of families, most visitors are couples between 30 and 40 years old. Six Senses Con Dao is sought after by guests because Vietnam is an increasingly popular destination and the resort is recognized as a must-see. There is no other resort like it in the country, and Con Dao is a perfect beach-retreat to end a tour of the country. From your experience in leading Six Senses Con Dao and knowledge of the industry and customers, what trends do you see for the travel and tourism industry in the future? Do you see a

Six Senses

Feature

For guests, it’s quickly changing from becoming a differentiator or preference to an expectation that the hotel or operator of their choice is an environmentally and socially responsible one. growing interest in sustainable tourism or eco-friendly travel? The industry is known for lagging in sustainability and so it remains. However, I am seeing change - not within the current industry leaders but the up and coming generation of students of hospitality. We have numerous students who contact Six Senses for support with their final thesis, research or dissertation project in hospitality as they recognize that operating in a non-sustainable manner in hospitality is no longer acceptable and they want to be part of the change. When they get out in the workplace that is when the industry will see a true shift. As for guests, it’s quickly changing from becoming a differentiator or preference to an expectation that the hotel or operator of their choice is an environmentally and socially responsible one. What is your sustainability message to the travel trade?

Sustainability is not a compromise to luxury travel! Many believe that luxury and sustainability are idiosyncratic in nature, but when one looks closely at authentic luxury they pair quiet well. Attributes such as quality, meaning, emotional connection, bespoke, unique and timeless are core to luxury and sustainability. It is very true that travel can have negative impacts on the environment and local communities but it is not outside our capacity to change that! Sustainability is not just ‘a nice thing to do’, it is a business strategy for ensuring financial viability for years to come. Nor is it difficult. It starts with awareness, identifying the impacts, taking responsibility for them, and changing them where and when you can. It’s a continual process. It is not something you start, achieve and then stop practicing. However, it does require that you start…and there is no time like the present!

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

Mission Hills

Mission Hills, China

Mission Hills Group, owner and operator of Mission Hills Resort destinations in the heart of the Pearl River Delta and the tropical island of Hainan, is the pioneer in China’s fledgling hospitality, sports and leisure industry. Founded in 1992, Mission Hills is recognized as the leading golf and leisure brand in the world and synonymous with high-end, luxurious and exquisitely-designed residences. In this interview, Dr. Ken Chu, Chairman and CEO of the Group, shares with us information about Mission Hills’ sustainability philosophy and business practices. How did this project come about? What was your motivation to set it up? In China, sustainable tourism and environmental practices are still at its infant stage even though China has the largest population and fastest growing middle class. It is Mission Hills’ vision to set the example of sustainable best practices in China and pioneering the sustainable tourism development in the region. Over the years, more than US$48 million has been invested on the implementation of various sustainable environmental programs. Through “leveraging” and “sharing” operating principles, Mission Hills has created numerous job opportunities for the local community, thus improving the standard of living and level of education in the regions in which we operate. It is the group’s mission is to advance

with time and inspire happy, healthy and harmonious lifestyles and experiences for all. We are committed to advocating ecological, cultural and sustainability into Mission Hills’ eco- tourism development. What is Mission Hills’ core sustainability philosophy and what are the key features of the resort? Sustainable tourism is the core of our tourism-related business development. Low Carbon, Environment and Ecology Protection are our most important sustainable strategies. We are proud of our achievements on natural and culture heritage, water conservation, waste management, energy saving, bans of sharks fin and elephant ivory, generating economic and social benefits and advocating public environmental education. We are committed to be a leading worldclass leisure and tourism brand, a pioneer

in the sustainable development in China, and protecting her natural resources for future generations. The Principles of Mission Hills Sustainable Tourism including environmentally friendly practices; support for the protection of cultural and natural heritage, and improving the lives of local communities as part of our daily decision-making. Embracing the global movement toward environmental sustainability, Mission Hills’ energy-efficient, low-carbon footprint projects have incorporated many innovative, eco-friendly design elements and building materials.

Mission Hills

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

Mission Hills works closely with both local and international NGOs on the implementation of various industry standards and undergoes regular sustainable and resort audits. Could you further elaborate on some of the eco-practices that you follow in the resort? Mission Hills works closely with both local and international NGOs on the implementation of various industry standards and undergoes regular sustainable and resort audits. We have also recently completed our annual strength, weakness, opportunity and threats (SWOT) analysis to monitor and evaluate the progress of our sustainable tourism practices.

natural environment for future generations, the preservation of ecology in our tourism businesses development, the celebration of international and local cultural exchange, and the assurance of economic benefits to the local community. You launched nature hiking trails at Mission Hills. Could you tell us more about this initiative?

Being one of the largest resort destinations in China and the key opinion leader in the golf industry, we take an active role in influencing and engaging our industry leaders in the implementation of sustainable tourism best practices in the region.

Yes, that’s right. It has always been Mission Hills’ vision to create a sustainable and environmentally responsible tourism related businesses that harnesses the power of sport and leisure to make a positive economic, cultural and environmental impact on the local community and the region. We encourage constant innovations of sustainable elements to be implemented at our resorts.

Our group’s sustainable development plans focus on the conservation of the

In May 2014, we introduced more than 30 kilometres of nature and cultural heritage

hiking trails, and an Eco Gallery education centre at all our three properties in Shenzhen, Dongguan and Haikou. These newly opened nature, cultural and heritage trails, and eco galleries at Mission Hills resort destinations in southern China are included in various eco-vacation packages and special promotions aimed at educating the growing number of Chinese travellers as well as international visitors. The importance of sustainable tourism, defined by environmentally-friendly resort operations to support the protection of cultural and natural heritage, and social and economic wellbeing of local communities are communicated in these tours. The nature trails and eco galleries display educational exhibitions about ecology, biodiversity conservation, and climate change, along with information on how to be a responsible traveller in today’s tourism industry.

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

Mission Hills

At Mission Hills, we deliver messages regarding environmental best practices to our staff through internal email system, training courses, workshops, brochure, signage, posters and LED displays. Do you provide Environmental Education & Training to staff? Do you have an Environmental and Respectful Code of Conduct for guests? Mission Hills constantly engage with our staff and educate them on various environmental issues and practices. Over the past years, we have held over 450 workshops on environmental best practices and thousands of employees have benefited from these programs. Through words of mouth, our employees then pass on the information they have learned to their families and friends thus making more people aware of the different environmental issues, challenges and practices. Our trainings include efficient water management, emergencies and accidents precautions, preservation of habitats and vegetation, waste minimization, separation and recycling, energy saving, environmental protection and management planning etc.

At Mission Hills, we also deliver messages regarding environmental best practices to our staff through internal email system, training courses, brochures, signage, posters and LED displays. Garbage sorting system is implemented in all the hotel guest rooms and public areas to encourage our guests to separate waste and garbage accordingly. Environment protection signage is also displayed in public areas and hotel rooms to remind our guests of the various tourism sustainable best practices while staying with us. The introduction of the nature and cultural heritage hiking trails and Eco Gallery education centres aid to educate visitors and our staff to protect Mother Nature and cultivate sustainable practices that will benefit our next generations. What measurable impact has Mission

Hills made on the local environment in which it operates? It is our responsibility to â&#x20AC;&#x153;give backâ&#x20AC;? to the communities in which we operate. Mission Hills plays an active role in cultural and social charities. Our Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s educational foundation has donated more than RMB 700 million in past years to build schools in different provinces across China. We have also subsidized several scientific research projects at renowned universities and colleges in Mainland China and Hong Kong. Mission Hills has successfully integrated staff from diverse cultures and origins to form a highly efficient and cooperative service team. Mission Hills has a total of 15,000 direct team members (inclusive of 4,000 caddies) from 20 different countries, and 30 provinces and regions in China. There are also over 20,000 contractors and

Mission Hills

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

Solar energy is used in all houses on the courses and street lamps that light the entire property. We used heat recovery from air-conditioner to heat the water. These result a minimum saving of 2.56 million kilowatt hour consumption per year which is equivalent to electricity consumption from 13,000 families in a month. business partners that are indirectly working with Mission Hills and whose livelihood is built around our new developments.

houses. Other natural fertilizers are used for the golf courses and the landscaping areas are treated with slow release, nontoxic formula to prevent overdose.

Mission Hills recognizes the importance of the environment and the impact it has for our future generations. As mentioned, more than US$48 million has been spent on the implementation of various sustainable environmental programs. Some of our sustainable initiatives over the years include:

Herbicide, insecticide and fungicide are all chosen based on compliance with the environmental requirements of the US Agricultural Department. To minimize their use, we selected maintenance-free grass that best suit the weather, and implemented a â&#x20AC;?Caddies De-weeding Programâ&#x20AC;?, thereby reducing the use of herbicide by 50%.

Plantation: Planted 280,000 square meters of trees and flora, including over 4,000 shrubs and over 100 different indigenous species. Fertilisation & Insecticide: In addition to embarking on the largest ever natural fertilizing program in Southern China, grass trims are collected and reused as fertilizers for organic plants in our green

Water Preservation: We used Rapid Infiltration System along with a biological water recycling system to filter and purify wastewater for repeated irrigation. Water sources within the development are built in an enclosed environment, such that all used water is treated and reused. 90,000 sq meters of reservoirs and water tanks are built as water catchments and this

waterscape is used to nurture the plantation and the courses. This significantly reduces the overall water usage in the whole development and a minimum saving of 3.5 million cu.metres of tap water consumption is achieved which is equivalent to water consumption of 250,000 families in a month. Solar Power & Heat Management: Solar energy is used in all houses on the courses and street lamps that light the entire property. We used heat recovery from air-conditioner to heat the water. These result a minimum saving of 2.56 million kilowatt hour consumption per year which is equivalent to electricity consumption for 13,000 families in a month. Mission Hills established an air quality monitoring station with an investment of over RMB 2 million. The station uses advanced equipment and technology

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

Mission Hills

Our role in pioneering tourism sustainable development and being an innovative leader in the tourism industry has sparked interest in sustainable tourism and eco-friendly travel in China. to measure 10 parameters at the same time, including PM2.5, CO, NOx, SO2, O3 and other five meteorological parameters. The results are closely monitored and synchronized with the Monitoring Station of Haikou Municipal Environmental Protection Bureau, providing authoritative air quality data. From your experience in leading Mission Hills and knowledge of the industry and customers, what trends do you see for the tourism industry in the future? Do you see a growing interest in sustainable tourism or eco-friendly travel? With the rise in the middle class and higher income groups, China is set to become one of the largest travel markets in the world. It is a challenge to accommodate the increasing demand for travel while reducing the pressure on natural resources, addressing climate change, water scarcity, ensuring socio-economic development and wellbeing, poverty

reduction or community engagement. Mission Hills is a good example to demonstrate to the rest of China the successful outcome of sustainable best practices. Our role in pioneering tourism sustainable development and being an innovative leader in the tourism industry has sparked interest in sustainable tourism and eco-friendly travel in China. Our sustainable tourism practices are also in line with the Chinese governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new environmental protection policies and welcomed by the officials and tourism bodies in the regions in which we operate. What is your sustainability message to the travel trade? The three Ps (Profit, People and Planet) forms the basis of my sustainable message to the travel trade. Focus on each of these three aspects to ensure the survival of Mother Earth. Our tourism industry depends on it.

Mission Hills

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

Awards & Recognition 2014: Mission Hills Centreville received the “Global Model of Green Commercial Complex” award and “GFHS Outstanding Contribution Award – Individual (CEO)” award at the 2014 Global Forum on Human Settlements. 2013: International Corporate Social Responsibility Excellence Award by The International CSR Awards Organization. 2013: Mission Hills Resort (Shenzhen, Dongguan, and Haikou) received the “Global Low Carbon Ecological Scenic Spot and Outstanding Contributions to Undertaking Corporate Social Responsibilities

Awards at the 2013 Global Forum on Human Settlements. 2013: Mission Hills Golf Club was named “International Green Heroes” by The Green Organization. 2012: National Low Carbon Tourism Test Site by All-China Environment Federation 2012: Green Management Award by Hong Kong Green Awards.

2012: Gold award in the International Best Environment Practice by International Green Apple Awards and is the only Gold award given to a China project since the award was founded. 2011: Named 5A Level Tourist Attraction by China’s National Tourism Administration.

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

Jetwing Vil Uyana

Jetwing Vil Uyana, Sri Lanka Finalist

Jetwing Hotels is a family owned hotel chain that has been in the tourism industry for 41 years. Located in the heart of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, Jetwing Vil Uyana is just 5 km away from the rock fortress of Sigiriya which is also considered to be the 8th Wonder of the World. In this interview, Jude Kasturiarachchi, Director, Jetwings Hotels, shares insights about this lifestyle hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique approach to eco-living. Jetwingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core philosophy is based on responsible tourism. What are the key tenets of your sustainability policy, specifically for Jetwing Vil Uyana? And how do you ensure it is implemented? Jetwing believes that tourism cannot exist in isolation. It only works well when a complex and intimate relationship is established with the local community and the environment. The concept of sustainability is incorporated into business decisions considering the Triple Bottom Line (Profit, Planet, People).

Can you give us some details about Jetwing Vil Uyanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s key features and the environmental best practices that you follow? Jetwing is possibly first in the world to construct a wetland system with lakes, reed beds and forest areas to form a private nature reserve. Man-made lakes

collect rainwater naturally, which is later used for paddy cultivation. The buildings of Jetwing Vil Uyana grow not out, but into the landscape. The Hotel by design has maximised the use of natural light and ventilation. The cadjun roofing material and the presence of clay in the plastering aid in maintaining a cool interior naturally. Most materials used for construction were sourced locally. For instance, no soil was exported or imported to the premises; soil excavated during construction was used for building bunds along the lakes. Garden waste is composted and used as organic fertilizer in the hotel gardens. Bicycles are used as much as possible for transporting goods within the premises.

What measures are taken to monitor performance and progress in

meeting sustainability targets? The Jetwing Green Directories ensure that all hotels, including Jetwing Vil Uyana attain high standards of environmental custodianship in both front-end and back-end processes. These procedures are standardized and each hotel has to identify its performance under certain key areas identified and address its shortcomings. Regular audits are also carried out, to measure and track performance.

Jetwing Vil Uyana

Do you provide Environmental Education & Training to staff? Do you have an Environmental and Respectful Code of Conduct for guests? Please provide some details. Environmental awareness programs are conducted at the orientation of new associates along with monthly trainings on environmental topics (such as Energy and Water conservation, Biodiversity) Guidelines for Responsible Tourism are provided in the Jetwing Vil Uyana Excursion booklet.

You embrace a leadership role in the local community through involvement in and sponsorship of several Community Outreach Programs such as the Jetwing Youth Development Project (JYPD) and various conservation initiatives. Can you enlighten us about these programs and initiatives?

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

The first JYDP was first conducted in Sigiriya, prior to the commencement of Jetwing Vil Uyana, with two more programmes completed after the launch.

effect from 1st April, 2014. Accordingly, one third of the excursion charge from each guest is transferred to the Loris Conservation Fund.

A total of 147 people were enrolled for the Jetwing Youth Development programmes conducted at Jetwing Vil Uyana.

What opportunity do you give your guests to be involved in the local community and contribute to its development?

Following upon the success of the initial JYDP at Jetwing Vil Uyana, over the past few years the programme has subsequently been conducted at locations of other Jetwing properties. Another initiative is the Loris Conservation Project. In order to preserve the area where the Grey Slender Loris habituate within the property, Jetwing decided to demarcate this particular area as a Loris Conservation Site, essentially foregoing any future construction or industrial activity within or around the site. Stemming from the ongoing success of the Loris Conservation Project a Loris Conservation Fund was initiated with

Local site-guides are employed during excursions to historical sites; transport for excursions offered by Jetwing Vil Uyana is also sourced from local drivers, thus providing opportunities for members of the surrounding community to financially benefit from the hotel operations. Village tours are offered to guests to experience traditional village life. Guests can also participate in several CSR activities carried out by the hotel.

What is your labour policy? What percentage of your staff is local and how else does your hotel contribute

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

to the betterment of the local community? What measureable impact has been made on the local environment in which Jetwing Vil Uyana operates? Jetwing Vil Uyana complies with relevant statutory requirement of the country. 41% of the total workforce is local. Jetwing Vil Uyana has always placed great importance on consistently fostering close relationships with its neighbouring communities, who are identified as key stakeholders in the day to day operations of the hotel. Activities carried out by Jetwing Vil Uyana include philanthropic responses to needs in the community, involvement in sociocultural and religious activity in the locality, among others.

What positive impact has being a responsible tourism company had on your business? What are the long term benefits from being involved in sustainable business practices?

Jetwing Vil Uyana

Can this be a competitive business advantage? Biodiversity assessment surveys were undertaken in 2005 during construction, and flora and fauna has been carefully monitored over the years, showing a tremendous increase in species diversity. This is a long-term benefit as we directly impact the environment and the company has thrived because of its commitment to sustainability. This is indeed an advantage for the future as more and more travellers prefer staying at eco friendly hotels.

Do you follow any international guidelines in Best Practices in Sustainable Management? Do you have any external eco-certification? Jetwing Vil Uyana is an ISO 14001 hotel, certified by Sri Lanka Standards Institution. It won the award for Sustainable Project Design in the 2012 HICAP Sustainable Hotel Awards competition.

Jetwing Vil Uyana is a Winner in the 2014 WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow Awards. What do this accolade mean to you and your staff? From its inception, Jetwing Vil Uyana introduced practices to minimize environmental impact and conserve biodiversity in its environs. The Award reinforces the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s belief that sustainable practices are the way forward to the future. The Jetwing family is also committed to this, and it reinforces the goodwill between company and employees. It also establishes a sense of responsibility and accountability that is shared amongst all the employees of the company working towards a sustainable future.

And finally, what is your sustainability message to the travel trade? In the travel trade, sustainability and conservation practices are necessary as we deal with people and the planet.

Jetwing Vil Uyana

Harvest at Jetwing Vil Uyana

Involving local communities benefits all parties, particularly providing an authentic travel experience for the visitor and opportunities for development with regards to the residents of the area. When complemented with conservation activities, the planet benefits from what would otherwise have been high impact. A guest similarly benefits, from the simple freedom from worry about any negative effects caused by their travel. Everyone should be involved in the process of taking care of our planet and our people!

Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism

Point of View

‘Fluid Destination’: Innovative, but who will protect it? Water, the very elixir of life, is indeed a precious commodity gifted by nature. Kerala, popularized as "God's Own Country", is rich with diverse water sources. The rivers, streams and lakes, flowing through Kerala makes the state evergreen, and with enchanting landscapes and lush green plantations makes the state a paradise on earth. This reminds us of the importance of preserving those serene water sources. Our contributing writer for the Point of View column is Dr. Dileep M.R. PhD, Tourism Academician, Author and Columnist, currently working as faculty with Ministry of Higher Education, Sultanate of Oman. In this article, Dr. Dileep speaks about the importance of backwater conservation. He opines that it is imperative to protect the backwaters first instead of promoting further, as the current mechanism of conservation is inadequate and inefficient.

Backwater tourism, the kind of tourism activities taking place in the network of alluring rivers, lakes and streams in Kerala has been the USP of Kerala Tourism since the early 1990s, with Kumarakom and Alleppey being the key backwater tourist destinations in the State. Now, a novel initiative has surfaced to promote it as a ‘Fluid Destination’, using the latest technology tools. Absolutely, there is no doubt that the tourism sector has to be dynamic and innovative, and those captivating water sources can be used for promoting tourism. Yet, there remains a much asked question - who will protect it from pollution, over use, bank encroachment,

loss of natural beauty and other similar impacts? In addition to the common environmental threats, two decades of intensive tourism in the backwaters has augmented a range of issues altogether which will ruin the charm of backwaters as well as dampen the scope of tourism largely. Not long ago Kerala Tourism initiated a new global campaign to catapult the state’s majestic backwaters into the league of the Grand Canyon and the Great Wall of China as a once-in-alifetime experience. This publicity campaign is undertaken under the title of a must-see ‘fluid destination’. Though many elements are missing, it can still be referred to as a destination since it

itself has the potential to cater to the needs of tourists visiting there, with exotic accommodation and internal travel amenities along with a few entertainment options as well. The backwaters have already been a major attraction and thousands of tourists visit them every day. This seemingly endless string of interconnected waterways, paddy fields and coconut groves that stretches from the south down the Malabar Coast has been hailed as one of the top ten sites to see in India, offering a chance to witness another side of a vast nation with vivid culture and diverse societies. The most astonishing feature of it is the

Point of View

possibility of spending a day in the house boats, called ‘Kettuvallams’, that ply in the backwaters. For centuries, the local communities used these boats to transport rice from the paddy fields to market towns. Utilizing indigenous technology, they are made of ecofriendly materials, like wood, bamboo, coconut fiber ropes, bamboo mats and carpets.

including social media networks will be launched.

The houseboat can be used as a family holiday home, while moving on water, as it has all key amenities such as air conditioned rooms, kitchen, toilets and a lobby. Traditional cuisine, with expert chefs on board, is also offered. All in all, the entire experience is majestic and unforgettable.

Indeed, the most important thing to consider at this point of time is the sustainable development of this tourist attraction. Sadly, it is treated with much apathy. The last twenty years of tourism in these fascinating water sources have created diverse impacts with serious and far reaching consequences. The increasing rate of construction activities reduces the water levels. The rise in the chemical discharges results in other environmental hazards, and fish stocks are depleted, rare birds are at risk and the numbers of freshwater turtles are falling.

According to Kerala Tourism, the backwaters - voted ahead of the Taj Mahal in a National Geographic Traveller survey of top Indian tourism destinations - are to be unveiled as a self-contained experience in a new ‘Great Backwaters’ promotional campaign that has been shot using advanced aerial photography techniques. A high profile ad blitz in the national and international media

Many studies have proven the adverse impacts of unregulated backwater tourism on the local environment, local communities, animal life, flora and fauna. Irresponsible tourism has destabilized the villages where the life of the locals has been adversely affected due to oil spills from the houseboats, untreated sewage discharged into the river streams and other undesirable effects.

Tourism Concern, the world’s renowned body that propagates the issues of tourism across the world illustrates the nature of impacts created due to backwater tourism in the following way: “… poorly regulated houseboat tourism development is affecting water quality, ecosystems, and traditional livelihoods. Alleppey’s waterways are home to over 10,000 people. Their entire way of life is intimately connected to the backwaters, which they rely upon for fishing, drinking, bathing, cooking, and other livelihood activities, such as rice farming and toddy-tapping (harvesting of mildly fermented coconut water)…. Local fishermen confirm that fuel and oil pollution are affecting the quality of fish and prawn catches … ” 1

Point of View

Endless Backwaters

Polluted backwater stretch at Alappuzha Photos courtesy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kerala Tourism

Point of View

The waste deposited from houseboats, especially the food waste and toilet waste, creates severe issues in respect of the quality of water. On paper, there are a number of systems to prevent such negative practices, but in reality, it is still an ongoing problem and a major concern. The media regularly brings forward new stories of the lakesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bank encroachment by resort and hotel developers. Unethical strategies have been used to raise the land prices, as well as to sell land at cheaper rates. Migration of labour and the spread of polluted water from the backwaters to the paddy fields is creating increasing difficulties for agriculture. The current effort to undertake global marketing of the backwaters would have been ideal if proper measures were being taken to preserve it. Though there are a number of laws and guidelines aimed at minimizing the impacts, so far these have not generated any significant change. As per the existing system for ensuring sustainable practices, different aspects are looked after by different government

departments. Various departments are involved, like environment department, transport department, local bodies, pollution control board and so on. Yet, the end result is the same and there is severe lacuna in effective interdepartmental coordination and cooperation to ameliorate the negative Impacts. Moreover, such efforts should be preceded by quality research and taking strict regulatory measures along with increased awareness creation is inevitable. As mentioned, the laws introduced with the aim to minimize impacts did not produce the desired results. World over, the cry for sustainable development is taking place and the existing mechanism in the state is inadequate to ensure it.

If unchecked, the ongoing global marketing and the consequent influx of tourists, along with the burgeoning activities of the real estate players and industries, the most enchanting feature of Kerala - the backwaters - will become a network of common lakes and canals : the Dark Waters in the near future. Besides, the polluted waters will spread health hazards along with social issues. The ugly concrete buildings rising on the banks will cause aesthetic pollution, as well. I am sure everyone would like to see the sustainable progress of tourism in Kerala, along with protecting the eco system and the natural beauty of the backwaters. I hope serious and sincere efforts are made soon to ensure its sustainability. 1http://www.tourismconcern.org.uk/back

waters-of-alleppey-under-threat.html) Dr. Dileep M R is currently working as faculty with Ministry of Higher Education (CAS, Salalah), Sultanate of Oman. Prior to this, he worked with Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala) and Pazhassiraja College (Calicut University) at various levels. He is the author of four books in tourism and regularly contributes in travel and tourism periodicals.

Market Intelligence

Greening Cruise Tourism

The cruise industry is working hard to reduce waste and carbon emissions and become more eco-friendly. From solar panels to powering private islands with waste materials cruise companies have been making great strides in becoming greener. Royal Caribbean • ISO14001 & ISO9001 certifications for their onboard environmental management plans. • Biodegradable water bottles used as opposed to plastic. • US$100 million invested to convert waste water treatment systems to an advanced purification systems. • 18 million gallons of biodiesel used each year. • Explorer of the Seas hosts labs for both the University of Miami's Rosentiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Celebrity Cruises • Solar powered LED lights and lifts onboard Solstice class ships. • Heat transfer windows that allow more light and reduce cooling needs in cabins.

Disney Cruise Line • Recycled water from the air conditioning used in the laundry, saving gallons of water per day. • Excess heat is used to power evaporators which turn gallons of seawater into potable water each day. • Used cooking oil stored and recycled as fuel for machinery on Castaway Cay, Disney's private island. • Widely recycle materials onboard and recycle non-traditional materials through partnership with Keep America Beautiful. • Guests and crew can take part in a variety of environmental and education programs.

• Silicone paint added to ships' hull to reduce drag. • Plug-in at port power to reduce emission while ashore.

Norwegian Cruise Lines • Eco-ballast system ensures water leaving the ship doesn't send out toxins or invasive species. • Donate cooking oil to farmers in port cities to be used as fuel.

Holland America Line • ISO14001 certified for their onboard environmental management plan. • Bilge water treated twice before being discharged.

Source: http://www.iglucruise.com/blog/2012/12/20/h ow-green-is-cruising

Green Showcase Chumbe Island, Zanzibar

Green Showcase

Chumbe Island Coral Park Ltd. (CHICOP) is an award-winning private nature reserve that was developed from 1991 for the conservation and sustainable management of uninhabited Chumbe Island off Zanzibar, one of the last pristine coral islands in the region.

importance to both the preservation of bio-diversity and the fisheries economy in the region. On the 24th of December 1994 the Zanzibar Government officially gazetted the reef as the "Chumbe Reef Sanctuary" and with this Chumbe had become the first marine park in Tanzania. Following this Chumbe became registered as a UN recognised Protected Area. After the discovery of Chumbe's incredibly bio-diverse reef eco-system several years of campaigning by CHICOP succeeded in officially closing the fringing reef West of Chumbe Island in October 1992. With Chumbe being located upstream of the most important fishing grounds opposite Zanzibar's capital, Stonetown, the Chumbe reef provides a protected breeding ground for fish, corals and other species which can then spread out to recolonise nearby overfished and degraded areas. This makes Chumbe's protection of vital

Being a Marine Protected Area (MPA) the focal aim of the Chumbe Island Coral Park Project is to preserve Chumbe Island's exceptional environment. Therefore accommodation has been built based on the state-of-theart of eco-architecture and ecotechnology. â&#x20AC;˘ Features of the Accommodation As there is no ground water source in the rocky substrate of the island, each

bungalow collects its own freshwater supply from rainwater (captured from the specially designed expanse of roof) during the rainy season. This rainwater

passes through a complex filtration system and is stored in spacious underground cisterns (under each living room). The water is then hand-pumped through a solar-powered heating system into hot & cold-water containers for the shower and hand basin in the bathrooms. The used water from showers and

Green Showcase

basins is filtered through particulate filters, ending in specially sealed plant beds so that no polluted water will seep into the Reef Sanctuary. These beds are planted with species that are demanding in water and nutrients, and therefore easily absorb any remaining nitrates and phosphates. There are composting toilets installed in the bungalows. These eco-toilets prevent sewage (from septic tanks) seeping through the porous ground into the Reef Sanctuary, (as this would lead to pollution of the fragile reef ecosystem, encourage algae growth and finally kill coral communities and organisms depending on them). Instead, human waste is quickly decomposed to natural fertilizer when mixed with compost (aerobic composting) in the compost chamber. To ensure the experience for the guest is the same as with any regular toilet, specialized designs have been implemented with wind powered vent pipes and gradient storage so that it feels no different to using a regular toilet; except that composting toilets need no flush water at all, thus they also effectively economize on water.

Lights are powered by photovoltaic panels on the roof that provide ample environmentally friendly 12V energy for normal usage. The open design of the bungalows, with minimal barriers to the open air, allows for maximum throughdraft for cooling of the bungalows; a form of natural air-conditioning. To enhance this, louvres are in place that can be lowered or closed depending on the desired temperature.

The walkways, nature trails and beach areas are not artificially illuminated at night. This protects feeding and breeding patterns of nocturnal animals, and also helps preserve and view one of the most stunning attractions of Chumbe Island: the rare giant Coconut Crabs (Birgus latro). Instead, individual solar powered torches are provided for all guests that recharge each day for use in the night.

Organic soaps produced by a local women's co-operative in Zanzibar are provided for guests. In the process of purchasing supplies, non-organic products are avoided (i.e., plastic bags) and any unavoidable non-organic waste produced by the island is removed and incinerated in a specialised incinerator constructed by the project on the main island Unguja.

â&#x20AC;˘ Education Programme

Drinking water is provided by advanced filters located on the island. These effectively clean readily available tap water from Unguja, avoiding the need for mineral water in plastic bottles, which are still available for purchase, but are not readily encouraged, as they are a problematic environmental hazard in the country.

Over the years, CHICOP has conducted school excursions for secondary students and their teachers to Chumbe Island. Guided by park rangers along the nature trails in the reef and the forest, the participating children benefit greatly from the insights they gain in Marine biology, Forest ecology and Environmental protection. The excursions are in cooperation with secondary schools in Zanzibar, and consist of one-day school trips to the island that provide informal hands-on environmental education. At the same time, the trips give teachers first insight in how to teach practical field based environmental education.

Green Showcase

In 2001, Chumbe Education Program developed to the extent that a module on "The Coral Reef", produced by CHICOP, was recognised by the Ministry of Education as an official teaching aid.

relevant to the environment, and create awareness on coral reefs and coral island ecology that is badly needed in Zanzibar. â&#x20AC;˘ Activities

The program was expanded to encompass Teacher Training workshops and evaluation seminars, where teachers were trained to link learning experiences with the Science syllabi in particular. Since 2004 CHICOP has increased its outreach work within schools, which has so far proven to be extremely successful. Not only have schools fully participated in the field excursions but have also shown great enthusiasm to undertake more field based, hands-on, extra-curricular learning back at the schools. Working with the Ministry, CHICOP is now developing modules following the initial format of "The Coral Reef Module" for subjects ranging from "Eco-tourism" to "Biodiversity, "Eco-technology" and "Conservation". This will give teachers and students a concrete model on how to make classroom teaching more

The whole of Chumbe Island is a nature reserve and there are a number of activities available on and around Chumbe Island such as snorkeling, scuba diving, nature trails and visits to historical monuments. Since the park was highly recognized for its immense beauty and bio-diversity, there has been almost no fishing or unauthorized anchoring in the Chumbe Reef Sanctuary. The reef remains in a pristine state. â&#x20AC;˘ Research and Monitoring To establish the conservation value and document the terrestrial and marine resources of Chumbe Island for the management of the nature reserve, species lists, short reports and studies have been produced on fishes, corals, amphibians and reptiles, birds, bats, butterflies and vascular plants.

When possible, research is conducted jointly with the Institute of Marine Sciences of the University of Dar es Salaam and the Departments of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries respectively. Additionally short-term studies are regularly conducted by visiting researchers from both National and International institutions.

Green Showcase

Only local materials used to build the lodge

Smart and efficient rain water collection

Bathroom composting toilet

Rain water is the only source of water on the island

Solar panels provide electricity from the sun shining plentiful

Education programmes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; First time snorkelers

Photos courtesy: http://www.markus-meissl.at/temp/chumbe/index.html Monolo Yllera Source: http://www.chumbeisland.com/

Green Business Directory

Business Directory

Urbn Hotel 183 Jiaozhou Road (near Beijing West Road), Jing’an District Shanghai 200040, China Tel:+8621 5153 4600 E-mail: reservation@urbnhotels.com Web: http://www.urbnhotels.com/ URBN Hotel Shanghai is a boutique hotel, built by the Shanghai-based hotel chain URBN Hotels & Resorts whose mission is to develop and operate innovative, stylish hotels that combine locally sourced and recycled materials with modern architecture and design to create contemporary spaces inspired by China’s past, present and future.

El Nido Resorts 18/F BA Lepanto Building 8747 Paseo de Roxas Street, Salcedo Village 1226 Makati City, Philippines Tel: +63 2 902 5900 Email: holiday@elnidoresorts.com Web: http://www.elnidoresorts.com El Nido Resorts is a group of eco-resorts located in the El Nido-Taytay municipalities in northern Palawan, Philippines. The resorts offer genuine, local hospitality and unique and enriching experiences amidst the beautiful natural landscape.

The Frangipani Langkawi P.O. Box 138. Jalan Teluk Baru Pantai Tengah, Mukim Kedawang 07100 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia. Tel: (604) 952 0000 Email: rsvn@frangipanilangkawi.com Web: http://www.frangipanilangkawi.com/ The Frangipani Langkawi is a four-star beachside resort that opened in 2006 along one of Langkawi’s best beaches, Pantai Tengah. It is the first resort in Langkawi to implement Green practices to preserve the environment.

Dwarka Eco Beach Resort Ambelim Beach, Mattimol, Cola Beach Canacona 403524, India Tel: +91 9823377025 E-mail: dwarkagoa@gmail.com Web: http://dwarkagoa.com Ten beautiful, all natural, medieval thatched cottages, with contemporary interiors, are set around a fresh water lagoon with each overlooking the Arabian sea and the lagoon, and beneath the rustling of hundreds of palm trees, which are on different levels, on several acres of land.

Ace the Himalaya G.P.O Box 1280, A- One Business Complex, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: +977 1 4423719, 4423720 Email: info@acethehimalaya.com Web: http://www.acethehimalaya.com Ace the Himalaya specializes in hiking, trekking, mountaineering, rafting, wildlife safaris, mountain biking, cultural tours, and specialty itineraries (honeymoon, photography, festivals, voluntourism and student). Ace offers both, pre-planned itineraries and custom travel planning services.

Eco Koh Tao Crystal Dive Resort Padi Career Development Center Mae Haad, Koh Tao, Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 77 456106 Email: info@crystaldive.com Web: http://www.ecokohtao.com Koh Tao, Thailand is at the forefront of scuba diving in South East Asia, with thousands of people visiting this island paradise every year to take advantage of its world famous dive sites. Eco Koh Tao specialises in preparing and instructing divers and dive professionals emphasising the eco-diving aspects of marine conservation.

Business Directory

Dar HI Quartier Ezzaouia Naftah 2240, Tunisia Tel:+216 76 432 779 E-mail: darhi@dar-hi.net Web: http://www.dar-hi.net Dar HI is a design eco-retreat or eco-lodge located in the historical centre of Naftah town, in the South of Tunisia. The Dar Hi resort is laid out like a village and features ochre-coloured structures on pilars, enclosed by an exterior wall.

Polwaththa Eco Lodges 69/1 Wepathana, Gomagoda 20184 Digana, Kandy District, Sri Lanka Tel: +94 721 751951 Email: info@polwaththa-ecolodges.com Web: http://www.polwaththa-ecolodges.com Polwaththa is a unique and authentic experience that offers the best of traditional Sri Lankan village culture. The eco-lodge is surrounded by coconut trees and a wide variety of other trees providing lush greenery round the year.

Our Native Village Hessarghatta P.O.Box 8802, Bangalore â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 560 088, India Tel: +91 80 41140909 Email: info@ournativevillage.com Web: http://www.ournativevillage.com Our Native Village is an eco-retreat for holistic health near Bangalore city in India. It was planned as a 100% eco-retreat, with commitment to sustainability in every facet of its acitivity. Its Responsible Tourism Policy encompasses environmental, social, cultural and economic aspects, rooted in a strong ethical foundation.

Business Directory

Loola Adventure Resort 50 Tanah Merah Ferry Road, Singapore 498833 Tel:+65 6764 6496 E-mail: info@loola.net Web: http://www.loola.net Loola Adventure Resort is a resort whose owners believe that a good business can and should benefit all other stakeholders too: the local community, the staff, and the clients. It is located in Loola, Bintan.

Great Ponsonby Art Hotel 30 Ponsonby Terrace, Ponsonby, 1011, New Zealand Tel: +64 9-376 5989 Email: info@greatpons.co.nz Web: http://www.greatpons.co.nz The Great Ponsonby Art Hotel is a small Bed & Breakfast hotel located in Ponsonby, a vibrant, safe, historic area of Auckland City. It has 12 rooms of varying sizes. The Great Ponsonby is the recipient of the Qualmark Enviro Gold Award accreditation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; New Zeaaland tourismâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official mark of quality.

Alila Hotels & Resorts 15 Scotts Road #04-10 Thong Teck building Singapore 228218 Tel: +65 67358300 Email: ask@alilahotels.com Web: http://www.alilahotels.com Alila Hotels & Resorts is a privately owned hotel management group headquartered in Singapore, with a strong element of Indonesian genes and a footprint across the Asia-Pacific region. Alila currently manages nine unique city hotels and resorts in India and Indonesia, and has another eleven properties under development in the AsiaPacific region.

Business Directory

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Ace the Himalaya

G.P.O Box 1280, A- One Business Complex, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal Tel: +977 1 4423719, 4423720 Email: info@acethehimalaya.com Web: http://www.acethehimalaya.com Ace the Himalaya specializes in hiking, trekking, mountaineering, rafting, wildlife safaris, mountain biking, cultural tours, and specialty itineraries (honeymoon, photography, festivals, voluntourism and student). Ace offers both, pre-planned itineraries and custom travel planning services.

Visit the Resources section on the SOST website: www.sostinternational.com or write to us:

Eco Koh Tao

info@sostinternational.com

Crystal Dive Resort Padi Career Development Center Mae Haad, Koh Tao, Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 77 456106 Email: info@crystaldive.com Web: http://www.ecokohtao.com

Koh Tao, Thailand is at the forefront of scuba diving in South East Asia, with thousands of people visiting this island paradise every year to take advantage of its world famous dive sites. Eco Koh Tao specialises in preparing and instructing divers and dive professionals emphasising the eco-diving aspects of marine conservation.

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