Our SDG Impact Lab Fellows Amy Booth and Buntu Fanteso continue to engage with local companies in Belize, to explore their sustainability initiatives and gather insights to inform the development of an environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework for tourism businesses. Their recent visit to the Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge highlighted several innovative practices in sustainable tourism. This lodge, nestled in the pristine Mountain Pine Ridge of Belize, is dedicated to preserving the natural environment while offering guests an eco-friendly and luxurious experience.

Here are some highlights from the fellows' visit to Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge:

• Land Conservation: The lodge protects 7,200 acres of pristine reserve land, choosing not to develop it to maintain its natural state. In collaboration with neighbouring properties, they help protect over 20,000 acres of wilderness.
• Wildlife Protection: The Peregrine Fund works with the lodge to protect the Peregrine Falcon, ensuring this species thrives in its natural habitat.
• Jaguar Preserve Collaboration: The lodge collaborates with the Jaguar Preserve, installing cameras in the forest to track jaguar patterns and contribute to their conservation.
• Sustainable Energy and Water Practices: The lodge operates off-grid with a comprehensive solar power system. They source and filter water from the mountains on the property, ensuring a sustainable water supply.
• Waste Reduction: Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge has eliminated the use of plastic, opting instead to recycle glass and other materials to minimise waste.
• Local Food Sourcing: Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge sources all its food locally, supporting nearby farm co-operatives.
• Documentary Collaboration: The lodge’s chef partnered with the EU Nature Trust to produce "Unknown Belize," a documentary focusing on sustainability and preservation efforts in Belize tourism.

While visiting Hidden Valley, the fellows were able to engage in a focus group discussion with other nearby tourism businesses, including Gaia Riverlodge, Chaa Creek, and the Belize Wildlife & Referral Clinic. An inspiring discussion unfolded around the future of sustainable tourism in Belize. The conversation emphasised the crucial role that collaboration plays in achieving environmental and social sustainability. These organisations are united in their commitment to protecting local ecosystems, preserving cultural heritage, educating tourism staff and customers on wildlife conservation, and gathering collective data on biodiversity across their properties. Together, they are setting a powerful example of how partnerships can drive meaningful progress in sustainable tourism and were enthusiastic about a framework to guide their sustainability efforts!

Follow along as they uncover insights from the next destination Imvelo Safari Lodges