Sustainability Policy
Vision Statement
Our vision is to lead the tourism sector in ecotourism by integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of our operations. We are committed to fostering a harmonious relationship with the natural environment, and contributing positively to the social, cultural, and economic well-being of the communities we serve.
Policy Objective
The sustainability policy aims to control resource consumption and strengthen the company’s relationship with the natural environment while maintaining a course of leadership in the tourism sector. Our goal is to reduce or eliminate negative social, cultural, economic, and environmental impacts from the company’s activities. This policy will enable us to:
Optimize resource use and minimize waste
Protect the environment and enhance cost-effectiveness
Improve operational productivity and working conditions for all components of the company
Reduce realize on non-renewable fuel sources
Avoid unnecessary expenditure
Help protect the environment
Promote employee health and well-being
Support and promote Bahamian culture
Long-Term Objectives
Long-term objectives are to:
1. Energy and Fuel Efficiency
• Reduce energy and fuel consumption by utilizing ambient and renewable energy sources, site-appropriate architecture, and sustainability training for employees.
• Purchase fuels and electricity at the most economical cost. • Use fuels and electricity as efficiently as possible.
• Lower emissions from required consumption.
2. Employee Well-being
• Enhance employee health and wellness.
• Reduce absenteeism and conduct infractions.
• Improve job satisfaction.
3. Food Waste Reduction
• Minimize food waste in restaurants and food service areas.
• Reintroduce food waste into the natural cycle through composting and animal feed initiatives.
4. Renewable energy
• Provide 50% of Mansa Bay’s power through renewable energy sources by leveraging a blend of solar and where feasible, tidal energy systems.
5. Water Conservation
• Decrease overall water use in daily activities throughout the property.
Objectives
Immediate objectives are to:
A. Energy and Fuel Efficiency
1. Conservation:
• Action: Invest in renewable energy infrastructure, such as solar panels and energy efficient watercraft, moreover, implement sustainable boating practices to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
• Benefit: Reduction in operational costs in addition to minimizing carbon footprint and contributing to the
preservation of The Bahamas’ natural marine ecosystem.
2. Cost Efficiency:
• Action: Negotiate contracts with local energy providers to secure competitive rates and explore group purchasing initiatives for fuels and renewable technology.
• Benefit: Lower operational cost which allows for competitive pricing on services. This leads to increased disposable capital to reinvest into sustainable practices
3. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):
• Action: Collaborate with government programs and industry leaders in tourism and environmental sustainability to develop joint initiatives that promote friendly tourism.
• Benefit: Increased partnerships in the sector opens the doors for subsidies, technology transfers, data, insights and shared knowledge, ultimately enhancing the impact of sustainability on the Bahamian environment.
4. Resource Efficiency:
• Action: Implement resource conservation measures across all operations, including water-saving technologies, waste reduction programs, and eco-friendly materials in facility upgrades.
B. Sustainable Development
1. Eco-Efficient Construction:
1. Action: Design all new facilities using sustainable building materials and energy-efficient technologies, such as low lighting, natural ventilation, natural lighting, and solar panels.
2. Benefit: Sustainable construction reduces energy costs over time and demonstrates our commitment to reducing our environmental impact.
2. International Accreditation:
1. Action: Attain and maintain Travelife accreditation to validate our commit to suitable tourism and meet global standards in eco-friendly tourism operations.
2. Benefit: Travelife accreditation enhances the company’s reputation, attracts eco-conscious visitors, and ensures adherence to best practices in environmental responsibility.
3. Composting Initiative:
1. Action: In partnership with a local composting entity, implement a holistic composting initiative throughout our operations. Organic waste from food services and other biodegradable materials across operations will be collected and repurposed for maximum benefit.
2. Benefit: Reduction in landfill contribution, lower greenhouse gas emissions, repurposing of resources (organic waste), which leads to a decrease in operational expense.
4. Coral Reef Conservation Initiative:
1. Action: Execute the Coral Reef Conservation Initiative developed in collaboration with our organization and key stakeholders, focusing on education, reef-safe practices for visitors, ecotourism involving coral reefs, coral reef data collection and analysis, and active coral restoration efforts