Responsible Tourism

An overview

At Umlani Bushcamp, everything we do is influenced by our commitment to responsible tourism. This means that we take great care to treat people and the environment with respect by actively minimising the negative impact on our surroundings and make positive contributions whenever possible.

Umlani Bushcamp proudly carries the Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) certification, which is a guarantee that we operate in accordance Fair Trade criteria such as fair wages and working conditions; fair distribution of benefits; and respect for human rights, culture and the environment. To qualify for this trademark, Umlani Bushcamp goes through a stringent assessment procedure once a year. For more information about this trademark, please go to www.fairtourismsa.org.za

The following is an overview of initiatives that we have in place, as well as some planned for the future.

ENVIRONMENTAL

We are committed to minimising the footprint we leave in our natural environment. This is reflected through:

• Operating without electricity (a small generator powers the office, supplemented by solar power)
• Cleaning products are, whenever possible, non-toxic and biodegradable
• All linen and towels are made from organic cotton
• Towel and linen reuse programme is practiced
• Low-flow showerheads and toilets ensure water conservation
• Our gardens are indigenous, water-wise and we only use organic garden practices
• All fresh produce is bought from local producers
• 75% of all vegetables used by the kitchen are organically grown
• No individual packaging is used in the restaurant (sugar, butter etc.)
• All waste is recycled, and most organic waste is composted on site
• Lead-free paint is used on at least 80% of the hotel's interior and exterior painted surfaces
• We educate our guests and staff on various aspects of environmental awareness
• We are a member of the Timbavati Association, a non-profit organisation dedicated to conservation by maintaining the biodiversity of species
• We have written policies on environmental practices, and regularly measure our impact in various areas

Planned environmental initiatives:

• Replace individual soap and lotions with wall dispensers
• 100% non-toxic and biodegradable cleaning products
• At least 70% of all energy produced through alternative energy sources
  

SOCIO-ECONOMIC

Our FTTSA-certification is a third-party stamp of approval that we operate in accordance with strict socio-economic guidelines. Below are specific initiatives:

• Written policies on local recruitment; internal skills development and promotions; and employment equity
• At least 75% of our staff are from the local community
• We run a Tracker Apprentice programme
• We source most of our products locally, and have a programme in place to constantly monitor and improve
• A number of charities are being supported through our work, such as a crèche feeding scheme; a local clinic and an environmental training centre
• Our staff benefit from the HIV Healthy Living programme
• We give our guests opportunities to participate and/or contribute towards all initiatives that we participate in

Planned socio-economic initiatives:

• A trust dedicated at rehabilitation of alcoholics in the local community

This list was compiled to give a quick overview to our initiatives. Should you require further information, or if you would like to see our full policy document, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Tel: +27 (0)21 785 5547
Fax: +27 (0)86 696 8518
E-mail: info@umlani.com
Web: www.umlani.com

PO Box 1435
Sun Valley 7985
South Africa