Eco awards!

Sarinbuana Eco Lodge situated in Mt Batukaru, Bali, Indonesia has come away with the Wild Asia Best Eco Lodge award for their commitment to Responsible Tourism.

Hotel operators are assessed in a total of 40 different criteria covering the following principals: Commitment to local employment; respecting local cultures and supporting local development; protection of natural areas; efficient use of resources; responsible waste management and commitment to continual improvement. Award nominees are then site assessed by Wild Asia to establish the level of commitment.

The owners of Sarinbuana Eco lodge have instigated the protection of 800 hectares of rainforest on Mt Batukaru - the largest and most diverse rainforest in Bali. The lodge has been developed following sustainable management principals in harmony with the local community. The owners of Sarinbauna Eco Lodge recognise that the emerging “Eco Tourist“ is interested in experiencing the local culture, exploring the natural features and learning from the local communities of those they visit.

For the second year in a row, Guludo Beach Lodge, Mozambique has been highly commended in the Responsible Tourism awards in the ‘Best for Poverty Reduction’ category.

The Virgin Responsible Tourism Awards were presented at the World Travel Market on November 14th, 2007. The awards aim to recognise individuals, companies and organisations in the travel industry that are making a significant commitment to the culture and economies of local communities and are providing a positive contribution to biodiversity conservation.

Guludo Beach Lodge acts as a vehicle for the associated charity NEMA which receives 5% of accommodation revenue, an invaluable logistical base and generous donations from guests. NEMA works alongside Bespoke to relieve poverty and protect their fragile environments. Fundamentally, Guludo Beach Lodge covers all NEMA admin costs resulting in 100% of donations going straight into projects.