Our SDG Impact Lab Fellows Amy Booth and Buntu Fanteso were in Belize, visiting tourism companies to learn more about their sustainability efforts to inform the development of a global environmental, social, and governance framework for tourism. Their recent engagement with renowned hospitality group, The Belize Collection’s The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant provided a range of lessons in sustainable tourism, particularly in workforce practices. 

The Rainforest Lodge at Sleeping Giant is a sanctuary for eco-conscious travellers. Nestled in the heart of the Belizean rainforest, this lodge is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of its surroundings while providing top-tier accommodations and experiences. The Belize Collection is committed to sustainability and community engagement, setting a benchmark for eco-friendly tourism in the region.

Here are some highlights from the fellows' visit to The Rainforest Lodge:

Environmental practices:

The Rainforest Lodge has implemented numerous sustainability initiatives to minimise its environmental impact:

• Water Quality and Conservation: A state-of-the-art water filtration system draws water from a nearby creek, providing clean water for guests while protecting local water resources.
• Integrated Building Design: In constructing the lodge, every effort was made to harmonise with the natural landscape, preserving the integrity of the rainforest.
• Farm-to-Table Dining: The lodge sources ingredients from local suppliers, supporting the community and ensuring fresh, sustainable meals. They are also exploring the possibility of producing meat on-site to further reduce their carbon footprint.

Workforce sustainability: 

The Fellows were particularly interested in The Rainforest Lodge’s workforce practices, emphasising local employment and employee well-being:

• Local Hiring: An impressive 97% of the lodge’s staff are Belizean, fostering local economic growth and community development.
• Staff Training and Benefits: Employees receive comprehensive training and benefit from various perks, including complimentary lunch and resort amenities. The lodge offers commuting options for staff and is developing a staff village with recreational activities like football.
• Employee Compensation: A 10% service charge added to guests’ bills is distributed to employees based on performance, ensuring fair and rewarding compensation.
• Female Leadership: The lodge champions gender equality, with at least 50% of leadership roles held by women and no gender pay gap.

These initiatives not only enhance the guest experience but also foster a supportive and equitable workplace, setting a standard for sustainable tourism. Their commitment to the environment and community serves as an inspiring model for sustainable tourism worldwide.

Follow along as they uncover insights from the next destination Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge