Sustainable Business Magazine issue 114

ISSUE 114

TOO GOOD TO GO! How Too Good To Go is working with its partners to help turn surplus food into extra sales and achieve sustainability goals.

Feel the life, pulse & energy of Mauritius!

MAURITIUS TRAVEL GUIDE: Where we speak to Mr Lindsay Morvan OSK,MSK, Director of Mauritius Tourism Authority.

sustainablebusinessmagazine.net

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Welcome to the latest edition of Sustainable Business Magazine.

We start with the inspiring cover story of the Too Good to Go scheme and how their clever system enables partners to achieve their sustainability goals while also turning surplus food into extra sales. Their transformation since their inception in Copenhagen in 2016, into a multimillion meal operation is undeniably impressive - yet the fact this meteoric rise has been made while still driving their original message forward too, is a story to be celebrated. The premise remains the same and its fascinating to hear how they have scaled up their operation while managing to still continue to raise awareness of food waste globally.

Another organisation leading the way within their industry is Pelikan Hardcopy PRP Solutions GmbH. We hear from their Chief Executive Steve Weedon on the exciting breakthrough they have had in developing a new product thats far more environmentally friendly. This is such positive news - especially from the printer cartridge sector, with it being an industry traditionally not known for it’s green credentials until now.

We end this edition with our bumper travel guide focussing on the stunning island of Mauritius.

A busy tourist destination since the 1950’s, we find out how their tourism authority have expanded the types of holidays they can deliver, while integrating sustainability into the offering.

The Mauritian travel industry’s commitment to sustainable travel in particular is clear and commendable to see, with their 2023 Sustainable Tourism awards honouring those who have made sustainability an integral part of their business practice and overall mission throughout the island.

We have enjoyed taking a deep dive into all this breathtaking island has to offer beyond its glorious stretches of white sand beaches and turquoise lagoons. From the incredible views, waterfalls and wildlife in the National parks, to the markets, architechture and delicious local food to discover - We show you the best green highlights, that this magnificent island has to offer.

Glen Westall Matt Woodhouse

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CONTENTS 04 HARNESSING HYDROGEN Get ahead in a world with volatile natural gas costs.

08 TOO GOOD TO GO Turn surplus food into extra sales and achieve sustainability goals.

12 PELIKAN HARDCOPY PRP SOLUTIONS GMBH Revolutionising the printed world

18 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ANDREVITALIZATION (SDNR)

20 Q&A: PIA HEIDEMARK COOK Former Chief Sustainability Officer at IKEA

22 HYDROGEN WORKS Scotland’s answer to the global energy mix?

26 LEXMARK Leading the Way

The climate battle will be won or lost in our cities.

Senior Writer Web Development

T: +44 (0) 208 762 068

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28 PRASHANT KAPOOR

The Sustainable Business Magazine Team

61 Bridge Street, Kington HR5 3DJ UK

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Jack Hayes Champions Sustainable Speakers Agency Professor Gillian Murray Deputy Principal Business and Enterprise at Heriot-Watt University Lisa De Vellis Engineer & Writer Trevor Hutchings Sustainability Partner BIP Charlene Lindsay Writer

32 THE KULDIPSINGH GROUP Legacy Building

38 EVERGO Driving the Future

46 MAURTIUS TRAVEL GUIDE Feel the life, pulse & energy

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HARNESSING HYDROGEN

HARNESSING

HYDROGEN How businesses can best get ahead in a world with volatile natural gas costs. By Trevor Hutchings, Sustainability Partner at BIP.

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European energy prices have dropped sharply since the extreme levels seen in 2022 – when title transfer facility (TTF) gas prices peaked at over €300/MWh, up sixfold from €50 in August 2021 – but they still remain subject to volatility . In fact, UK energy prices have risen 8.1% in the year to May and significant price swings are expected in the coming winters after Russia drastically cut gas supplies to most EU nations.

Despite impressive energy-saving measures seen in the winter of 2022/23, demand for gas remains high, with over 40% of UK

electricity generated by fossil fuels in 2022, mostly gas . To meet our net zero goals, we need clean alternatives and, for many, this will include hydrogen .

At first glance, extreme volatility in energy markets does not bode well for the cost competitiveness of hydrogen, particularly blue hydrogen which is produced by natural gas using carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.

However, the fundamental nature of energy supply is shifting. Net zero is high on the

political agenda. The deadline set by the Paris Agreement for a 45% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 is fast approaching.

A recent report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) stated that global warming is set to break 1.5c of average global temperate rise within the next few years, which is also putting nations under pressure to act .

With this in mind, how can businesses effectively scale up their hydrogen use and stop relying on an increasingly volatile natural gas supply?

Net zero is high on the political agenda.

The deadline set by the Paris Agreement for a 45% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 is fast approaching.

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HARNESSING HYDROGEN

A blend of energy solutions – including abated hydrocarbons, renewables, nuclear and hydrogen technologies – is likely to play a key role in the future energy mix. In fact, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) expects hydrogen to meet 12-13% of global energy demand by 2050.

A PROMISING SHIFT: HYDROGEN AND A CHANGING ENERGY MARKET It is very doubtful that the 2050 net zero target can be achieved without a massive scale-up of hydrogen to decarbonise sectors where electrification falls short, and in some ways replace our reliance on natural gas. This is especially true for energy - and emissions intensive industries such as steel production, the refining of iron, and fuel for heavy goods vehicles, maritime, and aviation - all difficult areas to electrify.

Moreover, hydrogen is a storable fuel, making it an ideal replacement for natural

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gas, not least because existing gas infrastructure can sometimes be repurposed for hydrogen transport and storage. This is particularly useful when we look at the knotty problem of industries that are more difficult to electrify, or to meet short term peak power demand where hydrogen could play an important role in electricity generation.

To this end, businesses have a vital role to make the hydrogen economy a reality by drawing on innovative technologies and changing their outlook to reflect the new state of the energy market.

It’s true that unabated oil and gas are expected to remain an important but reducing part of the energy mix in most parts of the world until 2050. However, data from BIP revealed that the total investment by the oil and gas sector in renewables rose to $17 billion in 2022, almost six times the rate of 2019 - representing a 5.2% investment of capital expenditure compared to 2019’s 0.7%. This is welcome recognition of the vital role these companies must play if we are to reach net zero, but the sector faces sharp criticism for not moving quickly enough, as do governments for not regulating this industry to move faster. Nevertheless, with their expertise and experience, they should be well-placed to lead the development of a new hydrogen economy.

A blend of energy solutions – including abated hydrocarbons, renewables, nuclear and hydrogen technologies – is likely to play a key role in the future energy mix. In fact, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) expects hydrogen to meet 12-13% of global energy demand by 2050.

Scaling up hydrogen solutions will not be possible without government support, at

least not during the embryonic stage. There are, however, signs that government aid packages for businesses are on the rise. For example, the UK has announced an £80 million investment package for low-carbon energy innovation, which has helped fund food manufacturing company Kellogg’s switch to alternative fuels.

THE TRILEMMA: CHALLENGES BLOCKING A HYDROGEN TRANSITION There is still a huge funding gap to bridge though. And although steps are being taken to develop a hydrogen economy, the challenges ahead are illustrated by the so-called ‘energy trilemma’ – affordability, security, and sustainability.

The capital requirements linked to green hydrogen production from renewable electricity are significant, and businesses are facing substantial costs around integrating hydrogen solutions to their energy supply.

Businesses must be flexible – they need to remove their reliance on vulnerable sources of supply and diversify energy supply chains to source carbon-free and low-carbon energy.

Hydrogen valleys are a central part of

the solution here. They are geographic areas that allow for a localised integrated hydrogen supply chain from production to distribution to utilisation. These valleys can be diverse and fit various models.

Hydrogen valleys can use different production technologies like electrolysis or CCS, various molecules such as gas or liquids, as well as diverse infrastructures and target different end-users such as industry or transport. This has the potential to foster the decarbonisation of a wide range of industries and facilitate cooperation between transmission system operators (TSOs), distribution system operators (DSOs), industrial players, and government and private investors.

ENSURE A BUSINESS ENERGY TRANSITION STRATEGY Above all, businesses must be proactive to drive the energy transition forward. No one solution fits all: to achieve a net zero energy scenario, significant transformations are required in terms of generation sources, transport, and energy management infrastructures. Centralised planning and modelling are also key, such as economic assessments

of hydrogen valleys and technical sizing.

Businesses must have a dedicated transition strategy and implementation plan with company-wide recognition of its commitment to lower emissions.

They must collect, measure, and analyse data on hydrogen and energy as well as conduct climate reporting – this will help to set realistic short-term goals and to develop a long-term roadmap.

For instance, BIP provides hydrogen data to aid companies forecast likely hydrogen demand, allowing for strategic planning ahead. Forecasting and modelling data of this type is essential to plot a route to sustainable, affordable hydrogen and overcome the aforementioned ‘trilemma’.

There are undoubtedly huge challenges to overcome in the initial phases of a hydrogen transition – costs, energy sourcing, uncertainties over end-user demand, planning and the overall complexity of the hydrogen value chain, to mention a few. Yet, investments and planning will ultimately pay off as the world moves closer towards the net zero target. c

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TOO GOOD TO GO

TOO GOOD TO GO How Too Good To Go is working with its partners to help turn surplus food into extra sales and achieve sustainability goals.

HOW IT BEGAN Founded in 2015, Too Good To Go was born from a desire to create a simpler and more accessible way to fight food waste.

Through exploring the impact technology could have in this space, Too Good To Go saved its first meal in Copenhagen in March 2016. The creation of their app has created a system where surplus food from restaurants, hotels, supermarkets and bakeries etc can be sold at lower prices and in a way that helps prevent unnecessary food waste.

The mission behind Too Good To Go has remained the same since its inception; to inspire and empower everyone to take action against food waste together. The app itself was first and foremost designed in response to the fact that as a global society, we throw 8 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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TOO GOOD TO GO

away over one-third of the food that is produced. Food waste is responsible for 10% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions - which is more than the aviation industry.

Initially focused on eliminating food waste in the hospitality industry, the business has now developed to tackle greater waste ambitions; from producers and wholesalers to supermarkets and convenience stores to large chains or independent market stalls - and everything in between.

Today, the business has 13.2 million users in the UK alone and proudly works with over 130,000 food partners across 17 marketplaces, including some of the biggest players in the UK food industry like Carrefour, Aldi, Starbucks, Morrisons, Costa Coffee, Greggs, Mitchells & Butlers, PAUL Group and many more. This includes 26,516 in the UK. Through some of these key partnerships they saved nearly 44 million meals in 2022 alone, equivalent to avoiding emissions similar to flying 500,000 passengers from London to Berlin. They also recently hit a UK specific milestone of 27 million meals saved since launch.

HOW IT WORKS Too Good To Go is a free app that provides a simple way for businesses to sell their surplus, unsold food. It allows businesses to update the app to show how much leftover food they have available, while customers can search for local stores to purchase food via the app and then collect at a time of their choice. Rather than listing individual 10 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

portions of food, businesses fill a ‘Surprise Bag’ with food that hasn’t sold in time, setting a reduced price that’s fair for them and the customer.

The benefits of the app go beyond preventing food waste alone. TGTG pride themselves on their “win win win” proposition where the app allows businesses to attract new customers through technology, financially recover otherwise sunk costs, while also allowing simplicity and flexibility for customers - essentially creating a food waste tool that everyone can carry in their pocket. It also allows stores to meet their sustainability and CSR commitments in a simple and accessible way.

Too Good To Go is focused on supporting and guiding businesses along their food waste journey. All businesses joining the platform are in direct communication with Too Good To Go support teams and receive tailored individual store support throughout their journey. They receive onboarding training sessions; regular check-ins and all customer enquiries are handled by the Too Good To Go team via the app - helping to ensure a smooth and positive experience for both parties.

Businesses also benefit from Too Good To Go’s dedicated data and market analysis which helps to provide unique insight and identify ways in which businesses can better optimise their operations and avoid potential food waste. These tools and insights are also used to help identify which new stores would most benefit from joining the plat-

form, allowing them to grow their business and partnerships in a meaningful way.

For businesses who choose to use Too Good To Go, the motivations behind joining the platform are numerous and range from reducing the environmental impacts of food waste, to enhancing general functioning costs and upholding corporate social responsibility guidelines. In most cases, the motivation is all of these combined.

BEYOND THE APP Too Good To Go sees firsthand the challenges that come with misinformation and confusion around food waste.

Alongside providing customers with easy solutions through the power of tech, they have also focused on educating and supporting customers on broader education on the issue.

Too Good To Go has also committed to addressing the food waste challenge that arises from confusion surrounding date labels. In the EU alone, 50% of consumers indicate being confused by the difference between “use by”, “best before” and “sell by’’. The misinterpretation of which is responsible for 10% of the food wasted in the EU (EC, 2018).

Since 2019, Too Good To Go has partnered with some of the world’s leading consumer goods companies including Arla, Nestle, Danone, Onken and more, to incorporate its ‘Look Smell Taste’ label on products. These labels aim to educate consumers that a product past its best-before date

can still be edible. Therefore, encouraging people to trust their senses and assess the food based on its ‘look, smell and taste’ before wasting it.

During 2022, the Too Good To Go date label could be found in 1.7 billion products in 13 markets across Europe, with 465 different brands using them. A number that has dramatically increased in 2023.

RAISING AWARENESS Too Good To Go knows that while using the app is an important and easy step to take towards reducing our food waste, it’s not enough on its own. More needs to be done to raise awareness on the important role reduced food waste has to play in tackling climate change and securing a more sustainable future.

Project Drawdown, the world’s leading resource for climate solutions, indicated in its 2020 review paper that reducing food waste is the number one solution to combat climate change, which is why Too Good To Go continues to make an impact on waste across the entire food system from production to consumption.

The company’s co-founder Jamie Crummie has acknowledged that “one of the most important things we can all do is raise awareness of how our food waste is impacting the planet, and to improve our understanding of where our food comes from”.

Too Good To Go raises awareness by introducing users to a more sustainable lifestyle and gives them a greater understanding about the value of food. Shining a light on the impact that food waste has on climate change and the important role it has to play in building a more sustainable future is a key ambition for Too Good To Go and its founders. Jamie has reaffirmed the company’s commitment by stating, “much like how removing single use plastics rose up the agenda, we’re looking to ensure that reducing food waste is always on the table when talking about how we’re going to tackle climate change”.

As a fast growing company, the app has seen significant uptake since launching and as new innovations are set to be introduced with a desire to become a true end-to-end solution for businesses, Too Good To Go has ambitious plans for the future. They recently acquired Food Memo as part of this strategy and, the team are now looking at expansion possibilities within Europe and beyond in their quest for a future free of food waste. c

“One of the most important things we can all do is raise awareness of how our food waste is impacting the planet, and to improve our understanding of where our food comes from”

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PELIKAN HARDCOPY PRP SOLUTIONS GMBH

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REVOLUTIONISING THE

WORLD Steve Weedon, Chief Executive at Pelikan Hardcopy PRP Solutions GmbH, speaks to Sustainable Business Magazine about how his company has developed the first environmentally friendly product in a traditionally environmentally un-friendly sector.

Pelikan Hardcopy PRP Solutions GmbH is a printer cartridge company steeped in history and innovation. With offices in Germany and the UK, its products are available worldwide and offer unrivalled advantages, particularly through its market-leading bio-based cartridges. These are 75% more effective than OEM items and come with unique sustainable credentials.

Steve Weedon, Chief Executive of PRPS, elaborates on the company’s history and why its legacy matters today: “Pelikan as a brand is 185 years old.

It was registered on April 28th 1838, so it’s a well-known brand that has built its reputation over 185 years. In fact, today it’s

one of the world’s oldest brands. Everyone’s heard of Coca Cola, and that was registered in 1886, so that gives some perspective on how long Pelikan has been around. It started out as a pen ink company and has stayed in the ink manufacturing business ever since.

“That 185-year history is important because it has earned peoples’ trust. Today, in the aftermarket, there’s no such thing as trust. Buyers look solely at price. However, Pelikan is different. Those people that continue to buy the OEM product – which is about 80% of all end users – also buy from Pelikan because they see it as a brand they’ve known forever. It gives them immeSUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 13

PELIKAN HARDCOPY PRP SOLUTIONS GMBH diate trust knowing that it’s not going to go away any time soon.

“We don’t try to compete with white box prices. The Pelikan brand is an alternative to the OEM – and at a price about 30% cheaper.”

BACK TO BASICS At the core of the Pelikan branded range are the Eco-Friendly cartridges which includes the first bio-based cartridge. This is the result of many years of research and development into an environmentally friendly alternative to the traditional printer cartridge.

“Let me explain why this even an issue in the first place,” Weedon says. “The OEM printer cartridge is not very eco-friendly.

It’s made of high impact polystrene (HIPS), an oil-based product that doesn’t biodegrade. HIPS provides the cartridge a rigid and inflexible body, which is essential for printer cartridges to avoid smudges and other errors, but it is single-use. OEMs have started making some headway on research into sustainable alternatives, but that is only because we in the aftermarket have forced them to do so through our own portfolios.

Otherwise, they would continue manufac-

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turing single-use cartridges because that’s the cheapest, easiest and most profitable way to run their razorblade-thin margins business model.

“What we’ve done is gone back to basics and looked at the cartridge design. We want to reduce the carbon footprint of each cartridge as much as we can. Back in 2005, there was a move within the aftermarket to try and develop toner powder from organic

materials rather than carbon. A lot of toner manufacturers got together to figure out how to do that. Almost immediately we got toner powder up to to 10% organic content by using ingredients such as coffee grounds rather than carbon. However, there was a problem. Going beyond 10% meant we started losing the properties of the toner.

The print quality was poor and defects were cropping up due to the lack of carbon.

PELIKAN HARDCOPY PRP SOLUTIONS GMBH

“We can see a gap in the market where OEMs could go a lot further on their consumables to make them more environmentally friendly. So we’ve done that, and we’ve done it cheaper than the original.”

“At this point, other toner manufacturers abandoned their research into an eco-friendly alternative. PRPS and Print-Rite didn’t, however. Our research and development continued for another 10 years until, in 2015, Print-Rite’s chief scientist approached me and said his team had managed to make a high quality toner with 47% organic materials.

That immediately reduces the carbon footprint of our cartridges, of course, so we were really interested.”

That, however, was just the beginning advances into a sustainable printer cartridge in the Pelikan branded range.

“We also wanted to investigate the possibility of an alternative to the HIPS-based plastic that all other cartridges used. We did a lot of work on that and ended up using ABA and PLA plastics. Those are reusable forms of plastic, meaning we could reclaim the cartridges and use them again once the product’s lifecycle had finished. Moreover, those plastics contain around 57% micro-organisms. That means if the product ends up in landfill, with the 60 degrees Fahrenheit and 90% humidity usually found in most landfill sites, the Micro-organisms will begin to eat away at the biodegradable plastics, and will start to decompose at 90-180 days. That’s obviously much better than HIPS-based OEM and other aftermarket cartridges, which could remain for thousands of years.”

These two characteristics of the Pelikan branded bio-based cartridges were revolutionary. The company applied for TUV plastics certification, something which requires proof of at least a 20% carbon footprint reduction. PRPS easily passed this and became the first cartridge company to 16 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

hold TUV certification. It launched its first bio-based range in 2020.

EXPANSION PACK That wasn’t the only area PRPS knew it could improve upon, though. Apart from challenging the eco-credentials of OEM manufacturers, it also wanted to show that it was possible to innovate against other aftermarket competitors too.

Weedon explains how PRPS expanded the capacity of its cartridges in a unique way: “We didn’t want to compete on price, mass production, and cutting corners on product lifecycle. Those approaches only result in less environmentally-friendly outcomes. What we wanted to do was give our cartridges the type of expanded capacity that other companies offer, but in a sustainable way.

“Other remanufacturers will take existing cartridges and over-fill them with toner so that they can say it gives three or four times the yield of the OEM product. That way they can also claim they’re reducing the carbon footprint by creating a product that prints more pages. The trouble with that

approach is that, depending on what you’re printing, it can generate a lot more waste toner by spilling into the waste hopper. Nobody knows where the cartridges are going to be used, so they can’t predict how much waste toner a specific application will generate. The spillage also creates problems in the printer itself, and having to pay £250 for a repair isn’t financially sound.

“What PRPS have is done is develop our our technology to solve this problem.

It’s not even the OEM technology any more, it’s ours. When you get HIPS-based plastic OEM product that offers 1500 pages as a yield, for example, there is approximately 15% carbon toner left in the cartridge at the time that the printer is asking you to replace it. The reason it’s left in the cartridge is because it’s not transferred onto the page. It’s gone into a waste toner hopper. You can’t reuse it. And that 15% is obviously a carbon issue in itself.

“What we’ve done is develop a range of products where we ensure that 100% of the toner within the cartridge ends up on your page. None of it ends up in the waste toner hopper. We then realised that by solving the waste toner problem, we also solved the ‘jumbo cartridge’ problem of spillage.

Instead of overfilling a standard cartridge and having the waste toner spill out in the machine, because our product doesn’t produce any waste there’s no risk of tone spilling out into the machine.

“By redesigning the cartridge, we were able to take an OEM’s 1500 page product and turn it into a cartridge that can print 9000 pages. Moreover, it used less plastic because we didn’t need the waste toner bin. That means, on this issue, our cartridge reduces the carbon footprint compared to an OEM product by 75%. It also reduces the CO2 created by transportation of the cartridges by six to seven times. As a result, the end user gets a far lower cost per page than with either the OEM or other aftermarket solutions.

“These are the sorts of things that we are doing under the Pelikan brand to

create unique products that are more environmentally beneficial than other available alternatives.”

GAP IN THE MARKET PRPS isn’t just a reseller or remanufacturer. It researches and develops its own technology, marking it out not only from other aftermarket competitors but also from the OEM. Weedon makes it clear that Pelikan’s branded cartridge strength is in its originality: “We don’t infringe on OEM patents because we don’t need to. We recognise their technology, we understand them, and we work around them by creating our own patented technologies.”

To date, The Print-Rite Group, which we are part of, has more than 3200 of its own patents. Much of this is in solutions that facilitate the company’s ecologically sustainable products, meaning it is a clear market leader in this area.

“Almost every company has some sort of policy over environmental sustainability today,” Weedon says. “I would suggest that companies do it as a matter of rote.

The statement is typically worded by one of the internal lawyers, and even their employees don’t know it or understand it, and it doesn’t mean very much on a day to day basis. They give it lip service. What we’ve done at here is practice the message for more than 40 years. We’re committed to innovation through technology and research and development.”

“We can see a gap in the market where OEMs could go a lot further on their consumables to make them more environmentally friendly. So we’ve done that, and we’ve done it cheaper than the original. For the customer that’s a double whammy: they get a lower priced product, and they get a product that’s more environmentally friendly.

Many companies now are committed to reducing their CO2 footprint in an environmentally-friendly manner; sustainability managers are almost everywhere now. We see our products as a way to help our clients and end users achieve their own sustainability.

“We’re not going to change the world with bio-based cartridges. We can’t save the planet on our own. However, these are little things that everyone needs to do to do their bit, and we’re here to help out.” c For more information about the Pelikan branded Eco-Friendly range and how they can help you reduce your carbon footprint or to find your local stockist of the range contact Steve Weedon at info@prp-eu.com.

“We’re not going to change the world with bio-based cartridges. We can’t save the planet on our own. However, these are little things that everyone needs to do to do their bit, and we’re here to help out.”

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Image: Metis Model wearing (WDC) Photo Credit: Mukarram Ramadan

Sustainable Development and Revitalization (SDNR) was founded in 2015 in Canada’s third largest academic institution – York University. Over the course of a two-year period which began in 2013, academic professionals from a wide array of disciplines collected qualitative, quantitative, mixedmethods research, statistics and other data through community engagement initiatives and consultations. Although it began as a Major Research Project (MRP) lead by Professor Peter Victor. The project eventually blossomed and soon Professors from the Schulich School of Business, graduate students, government bodies, private stakeholders and people living in remote, isolated and rural parts of Canada became involved. The same year SDNR went live with its mission, the United Nations launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals – a blueprint for the world to do better, to consume less in developed nations while also caring for those living in underdeveloped parts.

Today, SDNR devotes much of its time on procurement, sustainable development projects, transparency, political analysis, IP law, research and entrepreneurship. The team also remains committed to creating opportunities for Aboriginal women and small businesses in rural regions through major fashion events in larger Canadian cities such as Ottawa, Toronto and Montreal. This past summer during the Canada Day 2023 celebrations, the SDNR team hosted their second fashion project in Ottawa. Drawing attention to the SDGs – mainly Goal 8 (decent work and economic growth), Goal 12 (responsible consumption), Goal 13 (climate action) and Goal 17 (partnership for the goals).

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RESPONSIBLE CONSUMPTION, CLIMATE ACTION, PARTNERSHIP FOR THEIR GOALS Recent studies published by the UN reveal that the fashion industry employs well over 75 million people worldwide - representing an important part of our economy that is estimated to be worth 2.5 trillion US dollars. Over the past decade, clothing production has doubled. Even amid the recent pandemic, it showed no signs of slowing.

With the fashion sector booming, increasing attention has been brought to the impressive range of negative environmental impacts that the industry is responsible for. For example, fashion production makes up 10% of humanity’s carbon emissions,

dries up water sources, and pollutes rivers and streams.

What’s more, 85 % of all textiles go to the dump each year. Moreover, washing some types of clothes sends significant amount of micro-plastics into the ocean. (UNECE, 2018) Plastic particles washed off from products such as synthetic clothes contribute up to 35% of the primary plastic that is polluting our oceans. Every time we do our laundry, an average of 9 million microfibers are released into wastewater treatment plants that cannot filter them out (Ocean Clean Wash, 2023).

With this data in mind, the SDNR team included their own line -Walking Dream Catcher (WDC) at the 2023 Ottawa event. The line is made from recycled cotton and polyester as well as left over (end of the roll) material from FabCycle - a sustainable boutique firm in Vancouver. WDC is not a line that is readily available to the public “because the last thing the world needs is yet another designer trying to launch a line of clothing,” say SDNR co-founders. Their design is made solely for their runway shows and is often worn by their production crew, models and photographers long after their events end.

The material is then refurbished and reused for their next fashion project.

Sweatshirt Design: Richard Price

Flagbarer Design: EcoEquitable

Also featured at the event was local NGO - EcoEquitable. A social enterprise whose dual purpose of textile waste reduction and women’s empowerment intersect through the art of sewing. It was therefore only fitting that the upcycled flagbarer pieces made from Canadian flags be included in the final runway show. Visitors from the UK will want to grab one of these gems during their next visit to Ottawa during the Canada Day festivities. The Flagbarer duffel is not only the best gym or overnight bag, it also fastens easily with a pull string. And The inside pocket ensures items are stored safely and securely.

Purchasing one of the Flagbarer items also provides newcomers, women experiencing barriers to employment, or individuals interested in entering the textile industry with the necessary skills to thrive through the Sewing For Jobs Courses offered by EcoEqitable.

The courses range from beginner- to- advanced levels including optional specialties such as industrial sewing and alterations.

As such, his leggings are made from a blend of 12% spandex and 88% recycled polyester, which is made from PET (a 100% post-consumer recycled raw material that is derived from recycled post-water bottles). This eco-friendly fabric is easy to care for and is extremely durable. His leggings also feature a gusset for an ideal fit and the stitching is reinforced for strength and durability.

More than 30 other small businesses took part in the event including various Aboriginal designers such as Rannva Designs, Eugene Cloutier, Richard Price, Jacqui OjiMaq, Eric Parnell and many others. Eric Parnell’s design was chosen because of the way his creations come alive through sustainable and conscious fabric.

Anyone visiting from the UK during the Canada Day festivities in Ottawa will be warmly welcomed to attend SDNR’s yearly event. In addition to enjoying an ecofriendly runway show, guests will also be given access to other activities including a lecture at the local university - where they will glean more insight into the historical fur trade industry in Canada and thus, the creation of the Metis peoples. Light refreshments will also be served such as cedar tea and traditional style Metis bread.

Design: Eugene Cloutier

Sustainable travel brochures and complete itineraries will be readily available via Ottawa Tourism: ottawatourism.ca/ on a yearly basis.

To keep up to date with what SDNR are doing, visit www.sdn-r.ca or follow us on Social Media facebook.com/SDNRCE

Design: Eric Parnell leggings SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 19

Q&A: PIA HEIDEMARK COOK

PIA HEIDEMARK COOK Former Chief Sustainability Officer at IKEA

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Pia Heidenmark Cook is the former Chief Sustainability Officer at IKEA, where she spent nearly five years reducing the furniture company’s carbon footprint by 14%.

Today, she is a sustainability advisor for several international companies and one of the top sustainability speakers available to book for conferences and events worldwide. In our latest interview, we sat down with Pia to discuss her role at IKEA and hear her hopes for a sustainable future.

What can businesses learn from IKEA’s approach to corporate sustainability?

“I think every company needs to go on their journey because every company is different. Sustainability is not a side business, it’s not a side activity, it’s not a ‘do good and feel good’ activity. Those are the potential outcomes but should not be the reason why you do it.

“It’s because you understand the impact you’re having on the planet and its people, on society. You also see everything going on with climate change, inequality, biodiversity loss, you name it, how that will affect you as your company and the future [profit and loss] of the company.

“Use that understanding to really plan and dare to set daunting targets, because I think you must set targets that are reachable, but still reachable with huge effort because that’s what’s needed.

“So, I think setting those 100% goals shows your organisation that you cannot opt out, you cannot choose to be the business that’s not involved. We all need to engage leaders and co-workers at every level.”

and they see how this is good for the business, it’s good for people, it’s good for the planet. When people really want to engage and come up with their own ideas, I think those are my proudest moments, every time I meet people who are proud to share something they’ve done.”

Do you have hope for a sustainable future?

“I think the honest answer is... it depends on the day. The more politically correct answer is I made it my job, I made it my passion, my profession. It would be hard to do this for 25 years with no hope! I believe in humankind; I’ve chosen to believe that we can fix this.

“This is a human made problem, despite what some people think, it is a human made problem. I think the way we have built up society with businesses, organisational structures, hierarchy, tax system, you name it, pension, all that is a human construct. It’s different with the laws of ecology.

“With all the things that have been created by us, we also have it within our reach to change it. I do have days when I feel a bit more worried than other days, but I do believe we have it within our reach. We have the ingenuity; we have the money, and we must use our money to do something good.

“I think we need to change the narrative and I mean... I’ve been in this for so long, but when we talk about saving the planet and saving animals, all these cute bears and polar bears, fundamentally it’s about our life on this planet. The planet will survive in one way or another. It’s about our life and our here and now, our kids and

our grandkids. It’s about, ‘do we want to stay on this planet,’ so I hope that people realise that.”

Which small changes have you made in your personal life to become more sustainable?

“I have made a lot [of changes], but not enough. There’s quite a lot of reports right now going around on social media about the rich world of the developing countries, about how we stand for a large proportion of the environmental footprint. I do belong to that group so yes... my lifestyle has a big footprint.

“I mean, I’m not travelling so much anymore. I drive an electric car, I bike locally.

I try to eat much less meat and we have shifted to lighter meat like chicken. We eat much more fish than before, but I wish I could faze out meat completely.

“I invest my pension and my savings in what I believe to be future-proof companies, companies and sectors I believe in. I also think about who I vote for, I try to really reflect on how I shop, where I put my money.

“I also try and talk to friends and family; I don’t really do that all the time because everyone knows what I do for a living! But trying to share examples of, ‘did you know that by making that choice you have ten times the impact compared to making that choice?’ It’s coming up with some of those examples, trying to influence people a little bit every day.”

This exclusive interview with Pia Heidenmark Cook was conducted by Jack Hayes.

As the Chief Sustainability Officer at IKEA, what was your proudest achievement in this position?

“I worked at IKEA for 13 years and the last five as CSO [Chief Sustainability Officer], so there were lots of moments - it’s really difficult to point to just one, it’s really difficult. But I think the main achievement, if I don’t choose things like the milestones we achieved or some of the goals we set, I would say it is the people.

“It is working with people and meeting people, co-workers in the stores, out in the different countries, and just feeling the energy and enthusiasm and the pride.

“So, I think that’s my proudest moment.

When it kind of clicks and people get it SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 21

HYDROGEN WORKS

GREEN HYDROGEN:

SCOTLAND’S ANSWER TO THE GLOBAL ENERGY MIX?

By Professor Gillian Murray, deputy principal for business and enterprise at Heriot-Watt University.

In the UK, the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy is happening at pace. Last year [2022], more than 40% of our electricity demands were met by a rolling combination of solar, wind and hydro - a figure which is expected to rise year-on-year as we approach the end of the decade.

However, Britain’s relative success in moving away from polluting energy sources is not indicative of the global picture. Worldwide reliance on gas and oil is still estimated

to be a staggering 80%. Clearly there’s plenty of work still to be done if we’re to meet our net zero objectives by the middle of the century.

Many of us will remember from days studying science at school that hydrogen is the most abundantly available element on the planet. In recent years, its profile as a promising clean energy solution, capable of decarbonising vital economic sectors and heavy industries by providing flexible energy across heat, power and transport, has risen considerably.

Among the various different types of hydrogen at our disposal today - blue, grey, even pink - green hydrogen stands out as a particularly attractive option due to its potential to deliver emissions-free energy.

BOOSTING BRITAIN’S HYDROGEN SECTOR Such is the belief in the potential success of green hydrogen, Britain’s central and devolved governments have earmarked the

Chris Watt Photography

Chris Watt Photography SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 23

HYDROGEN WORKS

Chris Watt Photography

low-carbon energy source to be a critical part of the country’s energy mix as part of its strategies to meet net zero objectives by 2045 in Scotland and 2050 across the rest of the UK. The UK Government, in particular, has set an ambitious commitment of delivering up to 10GW of low carbon hydrogen production by 2030. For context, a single GW is enough to power the UK’s entire chemical industry or around a million homes for an hour.

Here in Scotland, the Scottish Government recently published its own draft Energy Strategy and ‘Just Transition Plan’ setting out plans to kickstart the production of low carbon hydrogen - as well as carbon capture and storage - as part of its ambition to decrease industrial emissions by 43% by 2032.

It’s estimated that Scotland’s energy-intensive industries are responsible for as much as 15% of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions.

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UNRAVELLING DIFFERENT SOLUTIONS Despite its immense potential, several barriers currently hinder the widespread implementation of green hydrogen production.

Electrolysis, the process whereby water molecules are split into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity, takes a lot of energy. This presents two key challenges one being that the production of hydrogen often requires more energy than it creates and the other being that this means hydrogen is only ever as clean and green as the energy that goes into making it.

So if we’re to realise a sustainable future and a truly renewable global energy mix, what can be done to solve production challenges, explore truly green hydrogen solutions and unlock the potential of this radical technology? That’s where academia and universities like Heriot-Watt, where I work, come into play.

WORKING HAND-IN-HAND WITH INDUSTRY Over the last few years we have seen a range of truly innovative and groundbreaking solutions developed that are helping us achieve our net zero ambitions. Aided by advancements in biochemical science, the dedicated efforts of academics and researchers is helping us to produce hydrogen which is increasingly carbon-neutral.

This year [2023], I had the extreme pleasure of announcing a new centre for green hydrogen innovation and product development hosted at our Edinburgh campus in collaboration with Scottish hydrogen technologies experts Logan Energy and PlusZero.

The newly named ‘Hydrogen Works’ building will see Heriot-Watt University collaborate across a range of hydrogen-related research and industry projects including clean-power generators, state-of-the-art

refuelling infrastructure and cutting-edge energy systems for heavy industry.

As part of the initiative, PlusZero will undertake research innovation and product development into clean power generators to help meet the varied and energy-intensive demand for portable power in events, outdoor filming, construction and industrial sectors.

Through the new facility, Logan Energy aims to further develop and roll-out standardised, proven hydrogen technologies which will accelerate the transition from fossil fuels and encourage the wider adoption of renewable energy sources across industry and society.

The Wallyford-based company has more than 26 years experience in delivering projects and solutions in the hydrogen and clean energy sectors. It specialises in integrated engineering solutions that incorporate hydrogen technologies including production, refuelling, storage, distribution, and fuel cells.

CEO, Bill Ireland, recently quipped that the new facility and partnership is a ‘pivotal moment for hydrogen, Scotland and the UK’s energy mix’. I find it hard to disagree.

Both PlusZero and Logan Energy bring with them teams of hydrogen and engineering specialists who will give the facility an unprecedented edge in fast-evolving hydrogen technologies.

COLLABORATION FOR GOOD With demand for net zero technologies greater than ever, this collaboration also demonstrates the innovative ways academ-

ia, industry and enterprise can work cheekby-jowl to meet our collective energy-solution needs.

The prospects of what’s on the horizon for Hydrogen Works is truly fascinating. And it excites me that some of the products and solutions developed right here in Scotland, as well as across our global campuses in Dubai and Malaysia, will deliver the hydrogen technologies critical to the world’s net zero objectives.

At Heriot-Watt, we have a proud history of working hand-in-hand with businesses and researchers to open up new collaboration opportunities around the world. Hydrogen Works is an excellent example of how co-location within close proximity of these two entities can drive engagement and help accelerate growth through access to innovation, talent and entrepreneurial minds.

In the year ahead, we have exciting plans to build upon this success. We’re currently developing a further 80 acres of land on our Research Park in Edinburgh to house even more innovative companies.

This will support us to dramatically scale our collaborative ventures with industry and drive innovation at pace.

MAKING SURE HYDROGEN WORKS The future for green hydrogen looks promising. Our partnership between Logan Energy and PlusZero gives us every opportunity to build on that promise and create a strong business cluster in Scotland around

Chris Watt Photography

the future opportunities hydrogen brings to our economy.

We must decarbonise our cities and countries, reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and achieve our net zero targets.

Putting our right foot forward with green hydrogen innovations will further drive that change at an industrial and domestic scale. We find ourselves at the forefront of this environmental and economic transformation. The opportunity is out there, can we make hydrogen work this time around? c

Bill Ireland, Professor Gillian Murray and David Amos

For more information regarding Heriot-Watt University or Logan Energy, please contact: grid@hw.ac.uk About Heriot-Watt University Research Park: Located at Riccarton Campus on the west side of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University Research Park has long established links with Heriot-Watt University and is recognised internationally as a centre for high calibre science and engineering research. The Park offers a unique campus in which to work and learn as well as bespoke accommodation solutions to match your requirements and exceed your expectations.

Chris Watt Photography

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 25

LEXMARK

LEADING THE WAY IN REMANUFACTURING For over three decades, Lexmark has been at the forefront of promoting sustainability and circular economy principles in the printing industry. With a steadfast commitment to reducing environmental impact, Lexmark has taken innovative strides in Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) remanufacturing.

Through initiatives like the Lexmark Cartridge Collection Program (LCCP), we have not only set an example but also actively developed the ways OEMs can take steps to a more sustainable future, through our role as print industry leaders on the European Remanufacturing Council (CER).

DRIVING THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY: LCCP & REMANUFACTURING SUCCESS Remanufacturing is a key contributor to the circular economy, as it lengthens the lifetime of a product using materials from retired products. While many in the print industry have adopted recycling programmes and 26 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

the use of post-consumer recycled materials (PCR), remanufacturing practices aren’t as widespread. With the many benefits of remanufacturing such as lower raw material usage and reduced landfill waste, Lexmark wishes to set an example for the industry to promote a wider adoption of remanufacturing in Europe Lexmark’s journey towards circular economy excellence began in 1991 with the introduction of the Lexmark Cartridge Collection Program (LCCP). More than just a recycling effort, the LCCP marked a significant step towards creating a closed-loop process. This programme, available in over 60 countries representing 90% of Lexmark’s global market, enables customers to return used cartridges, which are then returned to the manufacturing facilities and disassembled.

The components are then evaluated for reuse, selected, and reincorporated into the production system.

Lexmark offers customers two choices of cartridges for use in their printers: Regular cartridges which are standard-priced original cartridges that may be refilled and/or remanufactured by any third party and Return Programme cartridges. The Return Programme cartridges are sold at a discounted price, on the condition that the customer returns the cartridge to Lexmark for no additional cost, so that the cartridge can be reincorporated into the LCCP system after its use. Thanks to Lexmark’s sophisticated remanufacturing technology and intentional, born circular supplies approach, Return Programme cartridges have been designed and tested to be remanufactured up to an impressive 10 times before they go into recycling. If a returned cartridge is not a good candidate for reconditioning, it is disassembled in such a way to maximise the materials recovered for use in secondary products. Examples of materials given a second life include toner

as an asphalt additive to improve quality and performance, and post-consumer recycled plastic integrated into new parts.

In 2022 alone, an impressive 36% of toner cartridges worldwide were returned through the LCCP, evidencing Lexmark’s efforts to make the LCCP process seamless and user-friendly. Lexmark is also an industry leader in the use of reclaimed plastic with 41% of plastic content, by weight, across all Lexmark branded toner cartridges, derived from postconsumer sources, including our own LCCP closed-loop process. Lexmark’s goal is to increase the use of reclaimed plastic through the PCR and reuse processes by 50% by 2025.

Since 2014, we have been manufacturing and remanufacturing cartridges in Poland to meet the requirements of our customers in Europe. This also shortens transport routes and times, thereby generating a positive effect on carbon emissions. In this way, the LCCP programme not only reduces waste but also reduces Lexmark’s environmental impact from a logistics point of view. In addition, this strategy creates and secures jobs within the European Union.

AN INDUSTRY LEADER IN PRODUCT POST-CONSUMER RECYCLED (PCR) CONTENT Lexmark’s commitment to sustainability extends to every stage of our products’ lifecycles – it’s not limited to consumables; it extends to hardware as well. Through innovative processes developed by their engineers, Lexmark has qualified over 145 components to incorporate up to 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic. The Lexmark Equipment Collection Program (LECP) ensures the responsible disposal of electronic waste, including end-of-life printers.

This initiative aligns with the European Union’s Waste Electrical and Electronic

Equipment (WEEE) directive, reflecting Lexmark’s commitment to sustainable practices on a global scale. Private households in the EU can take their end-of-life equipment to locally authorised collection centres, while Lexmark customers can also choose to utilise Lexmark’s individual collection system for transporting used products to Poland, where the equipment is processed for repair, remanufacturing, and recycling.

EU-FUNDED PROJECTS: ACCELERATING OEM REMANUFACTURING Lexmark’s role as an industry leader is further evidenced by our active participation in EU-funded projects. Projects like C-SERVEES aim to implement circular economy models and enhance remanufacturing practices. Lexmark has played a pivotal role in establishing business models which will have a massive impact on the industry, such as optimising reverse logistics, ensuring easy and digitalised product returns and enabling analytics to extend the lifetime of products.

LEADING THE WAY IN OEM REMANUFACTURING In addition to the C-SERVEES project, Lexmark has recently been awarded with two new research and innovation projects funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe programme, DiCiM and CERISE. These EU projects are aimed toward

implementing circular economy models and accelerating the move towards remanufacturing, not only in the EU but globally. Participation in these projects will help Lexmark build upon our findings and continue our research into boosting cartridge and printer remanufacturing solutions while optimising the reuse of secondary raw materials (SRMs).

Utilising our IoT and Digital Product Passport expertise for the projects will be key to continuing the critical work of developing circular economy solutions for the business world, and will help Lexmark further improve our own offering, as well as developing circular economy solutions which can be adopted elsewhere in the industry.

Lexmark has also been recognised for its achievements in sustainability by prominent award bodies such as EcoVadis, from which we were awarded the Platinum (highest achievable) medal. This certification places Lexmark in the top 1% of all companies assessed, signifying the success of our initiatives.

Lexmark’s journey towards a circular economy through OEM remanufacturing is ongoing. We have already come a long way and we know that we still have some way to go but we are well on track to set new and pioneering standards for the printing industry.

With initiatives like the LCCP and a commitment to EU-funded projects, Lexmark continues to set new standards for the printing industry. Read more about Lexmark’s sustainability efforts here. c Read more at https://c-serveesproject.eu/ detail_new.php?id_pub=454

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 27

PRASHANT KAPOOR

THE CLIMATE BATTLE WILL BE WON OR LOST IN OUR CITIES. Article written by Lisa De Vellis Images courtesy: Prashant Kapoor / IFC.

An example of a green building in Singapore.

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Prashant Kapoor, Chief Industry Specialist for Green Buildings and Climate-Smart Cities at International Finance Corporation (IFC).

Meet Prashant Kapoor: The man who’s helping green our world one city at a time For Prashant Kapoor, Chief Industry Specialist for Green Buildings and Climate-Smart Cities at International Finance Corporation (IFC), this is a rallying cry. Cities collectively emit 70 percent of global greenhouse gases despite covering less than 3 percent of the earth’s land. The mammoth climate-change contribution from cities is undeniable, and with the urban population expected to double by 2050, it is poised to worsen.

If planned and sustained measures aren’t implemented in time, by 2050, energy demand will increase by 80 percent and energy-related CO2 emissions by 70 percent, which will result in a 3 to 6 degrees Celsius rise in average global temperatures, exceeding the globally agreed limit of 2 degrees. Five billion people will be impacted by water shortages, and 1.4 billion people will go without access to basic sanitation. It doesn’t end there. Air pollution will prematurely kill over 3.5 million people every year.

Those most affected will likely be from cities in emerging economies.

Are we on an inevitable crash course toward destruction and scarcity? “No,” maintains Prashant, “we can do more. The greening of cities is a major part of the global solution.” With proper analysis and resources, cities can reverse these trends.

Prashant is optimistic. “It’s doable, it’s sexy and it doesn’t have to be a burden,” he says.

THE APEX OF GREEN CITIES Equipped with a graduate degree in Architecture from Manipal Institute of Technology, India, and a Master’s degree in Energy Efficient Buildings from Oxford Brookes University, UK, Prashant’s career revolves SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 29

PRASHANT KAPOOR Expanding and electrifying conventional bus fleets, are among the proposed measures to improve public transportation in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

The vibrant diversity of the built environment in Hyderabad, the capital of Southern India’s Telangana state.

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around making climate-change mitigation measures accessible, financeable, appealing and implementable for the greening of cities and the built environment. In fact, prior to joining IFC in 2010, Prashant was Director at WSP Consultants, London, where he led the engineering planning of Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, now considered a pioneer in zero-carbon urban development.

Marrying his green city planning experience with the vast, and as yet untapped potential of green financing, Prashant and his team at IFC developed the APEX (Advanced Practices for Environmental Excellence in Cities) Green Cities Program, which was officially launched at COP27 in 2022. Yoking the creative design and enabling environment of green cities with the incentives of green finance, Prashant’s work with APEX demonstrates a right-brain-leftbrain approach. It’s how he operates and where he excels as a visionary, finding unity and common ground in ideas that, superficially, appear polarized. This flair is aptly demonstrated in the yin and yang of his two favorite cities: Singapore and Chennai.

He loves Singapore, the place he now calls home, “because of its deliberate order.”

Singapore manages public amenities such as transport “like a well-oiled machine,” he says, speaking to a belief that cities can function as platforms for efficient societies. In contrast, he also loves “the chaos and beauty of cities like Chennai and Hyderabad.”

Such cities are “vibrant, living, breathing organisms. But there’s order in the disorder,” he says, “that not only allows creative ideas, food and architecture to flourish, but it also fosters a uniquely competitive environment that encourages creative frugality, innovation and entrepreneurship.”

To enable the transition of cities to low-carbon and resource-efficient growth pathways, Prashant conceived the APEX Online App as a key feature to support the APEX Green Cities Program. This data-rich app allows cities to map out different measures and evaluate their cost, feasibility, and impact to identify the most relevant and cost-effective green infrastructure solutions and policy interventions in a given city’s context. “But,” reveals Prashant, “there’s a secret sauce.”

Rather than treating cities as monoliths, APEX facilitates relationships, working with governments on policy, with banks on finance and with the private sector on nudging investment opportunities. “It’s about demonstrating the business case where everyone benefits,” Prashant asserts.

meters of floor space, reducing emissions by nearly 1.3 million tCO2 and saving nearly 100 million cubic meters of water per year. Under his leadership, IFC has created a green buildings portfolio that totals more than USD 10 billion, both directly and through financial intermediaries.

Acknowledging the visionary leadership and commitment towards transformative climate action, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte is awarded the APEX “Green City Champion” Certificate of Recognition by Jean-Marc A., IFC Country Manager – Philippines, and Prashant Kapoor.

Through IFC’s broad range of advisory and investment solutions, and through the dynamic functioning of the APEX platform, the APEX-IFC team arms cities with the knowhow to most effectively reduce carbon emissions. “The idea is to uplift cities and make them more visible and desirable,” says Prashant. Communities can push back, however, with citizens often resisting government-led initiatives. Prashant counters the naysayer mentality by demonstrating that cities can do the right things and that everyone can benefit.

Such a unified and win-win approach can go a long way in making communities more trusting of leadership in pursuit of a common goal to improve quality of life through climate-smart infrastructure and policy measures. APEX even recognises the efforts of Green City Champions – mayors and environmental and urban planning officials – who can motivate and inspire their conterparts in other cities. “You have to make [upgrading to green] a value proposition,” Prashant believes. Everybody wins. Especially cities of the future.

GREEN CITY SPOTLIGHT: MEDELLIN, COLOMBIA On track to a future-ready path is Medellin, Colombia’s second largest city, and the first city in Latin America to use the APEX Green Cities platform to create a green investment roadmap to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. The resulting Medellin Climate Investment Opportunities Diagnostic (CIOD) report identifies twenty high-impact, climate-smart municipal and private investments across the built environment and energy, transportation, waste and water sectors. Totalling approximately USD 2,805 million, nearly 70 percent of this investment will come from the private sector.

THE EDGE OF GREEN BUILDINGS When it comes to delivering on sustainable solutions, Prashant’s experience and expertise extends to the built environment as well. The precursor to APEX, EDGE – a green building certification system – makes it easy to design and certify resource-efficient and zero-carbon buildings. Whilst green building certification systems such as LEED existed prior to EDGE, there was a barrier to entry.

At IFC, Prashant, along with his team, developed the EDGE software application tool to fill this gap, making upgrading to green development – and reaping the benefits of doing so – accessible and attainable for all building types and across the socio-economic spectrum. Prashant explains: Most previous certifications were in the commercial space. EDGE takes that certification into housing, low-income housing especially; EDGE doesn’t discriminate.

Saving operational energy really makes the project more affordable to live in, alleviating issues such as fuel poverty. There are lots of things developers can do in the low income space.

By mainstreaming resource-efficient buildings, EDGE is already playing an active role in 2050 Net Zero targets. Till date, EDGE had certified over 59 million square

FOR PRASHANT, GREEN IS THE NEW BLACK Combating climate change isn’t just a day job for Prashant. He manifests the green ethos in his personal life too. He maintains a vegetarian diet and doesn’t own a car. He even gave up wearing sleeves to live in Singapore because he refuses to have air conditioning in his home. Surely a delight to his local shopkeepers, he closes their doors as a matter of routine when passing by because he simply cannot bear to see the wasted air conditioning leech out into the open.

Despite his senior position, Prashant addresses issues not from a siloed perspective but from a grounded, pragmatic and inclusive space where he can effect real change in the quest to protect our resources, our cities and our planet. He credits his wife, Aparna, for supporting him throughout his journey while often having to put her career on the back burner. “I’m lucky to have something driving me in life,” he reflects, “of being able to have at least some say in how the world is going.”

If the climate battle is to be won in our cities, the onus rests squarely on whether people, policy, innovation and finance can align. And that is precisely where Prashant’s strengths lie. To end the climate war, however, is ultimately a matter of deep personal commitment and of ensuring the wellbeing of future generations. “Seeing my daughter be proud of me,” he says, “is all the motivation I need.” c Prashant can be contacted at: PKapoor1@ifc.org Images courtesy: Prashant Kapoor / IFC.

An electric vehicles (EVs) charging station in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, which has been ranked as the cleanest city in India.

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 31

THE KULDIPSINGH GROUP

LEGACY BUILDING Kuldipsingh has provided construction materials to Suriname’s public and industrial markets for more than 40 years. Marketing Manager Jerry Sadiek speaks to Sustainable Business Magazine about how it has gone from strength to strength, and brought the rest of the country with it.

Kuldipsingh is a third-generation family business. The grandfather of current shareholder, Switrang Kuldipsingh, started it in 1979 as a building materials store, selling to both commercial businesses and private individuals. More than 40 years on, the company has expanded massively, multiplying into ten separate divisions that serve different markets.

These include: Handelmaatschappij Kuldipsingh N.V., which represents the company’s original public-facing store business but today consists of outlets across Suriname; Kuldipsingh Readymix N.V., which produces and delivers ready to use concrete mortor for building projects; and Kuldipsingh Port Facility, which facilitates ships in the oil, gas, mining, and wood industries.

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SPOTTING OPPORTUNITIES Jerry Sadiek, Kuldipsingh’s Marketing Manager, shared with Sustainable Business Magazine how this expansion outward from a building materials store began: “When Switrang joined the company in 1995, he began investing in new markets.

He brought a roofing machinist on board, for example, so that the company could

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THE KULDIPSINGH GROUP

“We train our employees so that they grow with us. We are telling them to ‘feel the growth’ with us. We want all our employees to grow alongside the company, because they are the company. They are part of the Kuldipsingh family.”

buy in the raw materials and then produce the panels here in Suriname. The first of the additional companies was formed to serve this market in 1997. Today, Kuldipsingh Metals N.V. offers not only roofing panels but also wall and floor panels, and metal profiles.”

In 1979, when it first started, Kuldipsingh had 30 employees. Today, across all ten of its divisions, the company employs 1500 people.

Its divisions have often developed out of spotting a gap in Suriname’s market, such as the materials transport company.

Kuldipsingh Equipment N.V. began as a way for the company to better organize and support its own logistical requirements. However, it quickly realized that there was need for a dedicated logistics company in Suriname capable of providing 34 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

the reliability and efficiency that Kuldipsingh is known for. As a result, it spun off Kuldipsingh Equipment N.V. and today it is a thriving business serving customers across the country.

Meanwhile, in 2015, the company built its own port. This facility is operated under the name Kuldipsingh Port Facility N.V., and it is responsible for controlling all marine services. This includes loading and unloading, storage, 24/7 stevedoring, and managing inland deliveries to customers. The port facility grew out of a need for the company to better control its own increasing imports for other sectors of its business.

Finally, and in the clearest example of how it has responded to its expanding business, the company has built further Handelmaatschappij Kuldipsingh stores.

Moreover, these are now (large) megastores. Along with these stores, the rest of the Kuldipsingh divisions flourished rapidly as these also delivered the required materials and, therefore, enabled Kuldipsingh to provide its own supply chain.

STAFF GROWTH “Kuldipsingh is always looking for opportunities, new businesses, and new chances to support both our people and the wider community,” Mr. Sadiek says.

One of the key ways that Kuldipsingh does this is by training its staff, as Mr. Sadiek explains: “We train our employees so that they grow with us. We are telling them to ‘feel the growth’ with us. We want all our employees to grow alongside the company,

because they are the company. They are part of the Kuldipsingh family.”

Given Kuldipsingh’s emphasis on family, it’s no surprise that the company has a strong desire to support future generations.

As a result, the company has made supporting schools a key pillar in its corporate social responsibility plans.

In April 2023, for example, the company helped O.S. Tout Lui Faut, a long out of use school that came back into use thanks to items and work from Kuldipsingh. These included renovating classrooms, building new washroom facilities, and building a new office for the school’s principal. Earlier, in March of the same year, Kuldipsingh Readymix N.V. sent a concrete mixing truck to Stg. Kangoeroe Community School for the children to investigate and learn about how houses are built with this. Also, in 2021, the company was responsible for refurbishing the toilet blocks of two schools.

“We are very connected with the youth because that is the future of the country,” says Mr. Sadiek. “From an early age on, children are already familiar with Kuldipsingh . All of our trucks have a name with a cartoon on it, and the when the children look at them, you can hear them say, ‘Daddy, this is one of Kuldipsingh’s!’ The youth is very important to us, so if we can do something to give back to them then we will happily do that. Beyond our support for schools, we also have a social support program. During our 40th anniversary celebrations in 2019, we were honored to hand out donations to orphanages, such as Stichting Mijnzorg, which is a foundation that looks after children without parents.”

HELPING THE YOUTH Of course, Kuldipsingh can’t provide social support if it doesn’t also have its own house in order. The company wants to ensure that its customer always receive the best products and services, and to do this, it carefully selects its local and foreign suppliers.

“Our main vision is that we are going for quality,” explains Mr. Sadiek. “Our products are of premium quality. Our service to customers is a quality service. We focus on providing efficient deliveries alongside the best products that we can source. Of course, this means that we are not the cheapest name in Suriname, but everyone knows they can rely on the Kuldipsingh name to get exactly what they want and need.

“When a customer buys products from us, or when they do business with us, we want to create a long-term sustainable relationship with them. That’s a priority. To do this, we operate two different business models: business-to-business, and business-to-customer. This enables us to work differently with different people, while offering everyone the same great quality.

Keeping all of our clients in close contact with local partners underlines our business.”

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THE KULDIPSINGH GROUP

“We are always looking for new brands, for new projects, and try to elevate people within and even outside the organ­ization. To our customers, we say: if you do business with us, you will grow.”

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ALWAYS SEEKING NEW OPPORTUNITIES Kuldipsingh’s past has been defined by going from strength to strength, and that doesn’t look like it’ll stop any time soon.

Mr. Sadiek explains that the company has a number of expansions on the cards: “Our port facility has a very important role within Kuldipsingh. Some of the goods that we import comes in there, meaning we can reduce costs further. We expect business there to increase over the coming years due to the recent discovery of oil off the coast of neighboring Guyana. Kuldipsingh Port Facility N.V. has signed a long-term contract with Halliburton for the lease of its Liquid Mud Plant. The company also has contracts with Total Energies. It recently commissioned an expansion to the port’s jetty. This will nearly double its length and enable us to accommodate both more ships and bigger vessels.

“We are also planning for some new manufacturing facilities on our property that is approximately 200,000 square metres and located in the south of Suriname.

The construction of some of these facilities have already been started; this will enable existing Kuldipsingh divisions to expand its manufacturing facilities and a total new division will also be added to The Kuldips-

ingh Group. In addition to that, another Handelmaatschappij Kuldipsingh N.V. megastore was opened in July 2023. This is our fifth shop, and it is located in the district Commewijne, east of Suriname.

Shareholder, Switrang Kuldipsingh, redefined the company by showing how important expanding the business is.

Today, this expansion is helping not only Kuldipsingh, but bringing its customers and even the entire country along with it.

“Kuldipsingh is always moving forward.” says Mr. Sadiek. “We are always open to new things and for new opportunities in existing branches, as long as it fits our business values. We are always looking for new brands, for new projects, and try to elevate people within and even outside the organization. To our customers, we say: if you do business with us, you will grow.” c

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 37

EVERGO

DRIVING THE

FUTURE Sustainable Business Magazine speaks with Dr Wayne McKenzie, OD, InterEnergy Country Manager (Jamaica) and CEO of electric vehicle charging station company, Evergo Jamaica, about the challenges and successes of spearheading the market in Jamaica.

38 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Evergo is an electric vehicle charging station company operating in the Caribbean and Latin America. It began in 2019 in the Dominican Republic as a joint venture between InterEnergy Systems, under the stewardship of Rolando Gonzalez-Bunster, CEO & Chairman, and US-based Blink Charging Company, but has since expanded to several other countries in the region. Meanwhile, as the number of charging stations has expanded, so has the number of fully electric vehicles in those nations.

Wayne McKenzie, CEO of both Evergo Jamaica and Jamaica Energy Partners Group, explains to Sustainable Business Magazine why Evergo went into the electric vehicle (EV) charging/e-mobility market in the first place: “Our mantra for Evergo is to contribute to sustainability by demonstrating a respon-

sibility to the decarbonisation process. InterEnergy owns and operates many electric power companies and it also has a vertically integrated utility company in the Dominican Republic.

“As a result, the initial strategy was to convert these core plants that the company owns over to gas and renewables, with a 90% focus on renewables. However, we didn’t feel that core generation was the right direction to go. Transportation globally accounts for 21 to 22% of all carbon emissions. We looked at ways that we could bring genuine change to the transportation sector and realised that we could help foster the e-mobility space. To do this, we wanted to begin installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.”

InterEnergy has found this model incredibly successful. In just a few years, SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 39

Evergo has spread out from the Dominican Republic to a number of other countries – including Jamaica.

“Currently Evergo has more than 500 charging stations in the Dominican Republic alone,” Mr. McKenzie says. “We are also present in Jamaica, Chile, Uruguay, and Aruba. We have also just bought charging company E-DRIVE in Mexico.”

OBSTACLES IN THE ROAD Evergo’s rapid expansion in the Dominican Republic owes a lot to InterEnergy’s presence there. “InterEnergy is a vertically integrated utility company in the Dominican Republic, meaning we can directly provide power to the chargers ourselves,” Mr. McKenzie says.

However, this is not the case in other countries. As a result, Evergo’s spearhead40 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

“Currently Evergo has more than 500 charging stations in the Dominican Republic alone. We’re also present in Jamaica, Chile, Uruguay, and Aruba. We’ve also just bought charging company E-DRIVE in Mexico.”

ing of EV charging stations has faced a number of obstacles.

“In Jamaica, for example, the incumbent utility company has an exclusive monopoly on distribution and transmission of electricity,” the CEO explains. “That makes our business model in the country a lot more expensive. It’s not just the cost of connecting the distribution line to power these chargers. If the distribution line is not adequate for a level three charger, then we have to do an infrastructure upgrade on the distribution system itself. We might need to provide and install transformers, poles, even conductors, before we can actually connect to a grid.”

It wasn’t just material obstacles that Evergo faced in Jamaica, though. As Dr. McKenzie explains, it faced a cultural resistance as well:

“When we started in 2020, there were many sceptics because nobody knew where the e-mobility space was going. Everybody was afraid of driving EVs on the road because of uncertainty about their ranges.

They thought they’d run out of charge and wouldn’t be able to reach their destination.

People hesitated over buying electric cars.

When we launched, we used plug-in hybrids because those were the only EVs available from dealers locally!

“However, it is not just Jamaica. These are the same challenges we face in every jurisdiction. At the moment, we’re eyeing Turks and Caicos and again the utility has a monopoly on distribution.”

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 41

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As in Jamaica, this monopoly potentially drives up the cost of Evergo’s entry into the Turks and Caicos market.

PROVIDING COMFORT These issues haven’t stopped Evergo, though. “In Jamaica, we went ahead and started installing stations despite the cost, and we did it strategically. We endeavoured to choose locations that would offer commuting users the ability to drive from east to west, across, the island, in comfort.

We did it in partnership with utility company Jamaica Public Service, and were supported by the Independent Power Producer group.

“We literally started in Kingston, then Ocho Rios, and the following one in Montego Bay. That meant if you were driving to Montego Bay you would have had enough chargers to keep your confidence up. Today, Evergo has 58 chargers installed across Jamaica. We plan to deploy another 40 chargers plus an additional 13 level three fast chargers in the coming months. Twenty four of those will go in before September.”

Each of Evergo’s charging stations is located in hubs of daily life and installed in conjunction with a host partner.

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“Our host partners are restaurants, shops, banks, resorts, and other places where people enjoy day-to-day and leisure activities,” Dr. McKenzie says. “As a result, we’ve used social media a lot to push the message that charging stations are convenient and adequately located wherever people might need to visit. That public communication has been essential.”

This is the type of multi-pronged approach that spearheading companies need to take. Evergo’s efforts have been rewarded, Dr. McKenzie says, as it’s now seeing an increasing take-up of electric vehicles across Jamaica: “We’re seeing an increase at an exponential rate the amount of electric vehicles present in the country. In 2020, Jamaica had about 20 to 25 fully electric vehicles.

Now we’re looking at over 400 EVs in the country. The government has also helped in this respect by imposing far lower taxes on electric cars than on fossil fuel vehicles.”

FOSTERING THE FUTURE Evergo has a strong vision for its future. It plans to install hundreds more chargers in Jamaica over the coming years, while growing SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 43

EVERGO

its portfolio in its other jurisdictions as well. It has the capacity to do this. However, it continues facing some uphill struggles in making its decarbonisation dreams come true.

“Right now, we’re having grid stability issues in Jamaica that are causing problem on the chargers themselves because of voltage fluctuation,” Dr. McKenzie explains. “That’s an immediate but hopefully temporary issue.

More generally, if the national grid was in a state of readiness so that we could literally just put these chargers down, that’d make the biggest difference to the future of the EV market here.

“The second option is if charging is not tied to monopolised electricity. The exclusivity of the distribution prevents us from being more creative in our solutions.

For example, we could literally put up solar panels that power the charging stations.

That means there’d be 100% green energy.

That really could work, but is prevented by the model of energy distribution in Jamaica – and in many other countries. Only legislative change will make a difference.”

Nonetheless, the CEO is optimistic about Evergo’s march towards a clean future: “Jamaica is doing relatively well in the EV space apart from that. The lower tax situation has been hugely beneficial. Now, with recent announcement that a scheme for zero duty import taxes on EVs from the EU is here to stay, we can see that the government itself is keen to support the market. The past three years has really seen the government mature in its attitude towards electric cars, and that’s helping to propel future expansion.

“We’re helping to foster that through partnerships with educational institutions and learning agencies in the country. We’re working with them to help create a base of knowledge about how to run and maintain EVs. Evergo is also part and parcel of the Jamaica Electric Vehicle Association, where we promote and encourage e-mobility.

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That way, Evergo is helping the long-term success of the market.”

ONE STEP BEYOND Evergo’s future seems assuredly positive.

Having expanded from just three chargers in 2019 to hundreds across the Caribbean and beyond today, and with the world turning increasingly towards EVs, the company is in prime position to lead the market. More importantly, it also has the attitude of a market leader dedicated to a clean future.

“Evergo Jamaica is expected to have 300 chargers in the island within the next year and a half,” explains Dr. McKenzie. “We believe that there’s also an opportunity to provision chargers in the domestic market. We want regulations and policies to change so that during the off-peak period there is a reduction in cost for charging EVs from the grid. That way, home charging would become the primary method of fuelling electric cards and roadside charging will become more for emergency purposes.”

However, growing the home charging space must go hand-in-hand with ongoing expansion of publicly available stations.

This remains, the CEO concludes, at the forefront of Evergo’s strategy: “Alongside entering this domestic space, we also want to work with developers and other persons in the commercial industry who want to provision chargers in their businesses. That’s essentially where we’re going as a company. And, of course, we are excited about our entry into Mexico. InterEnergy is looking at taking that one-step further and considering entry into the Spanish market.

“Regardless, Evergo’s future is simply about collaboration with government and agencies in order to maximise international decarbonisation efforts through e-mobility.” c

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 45

TRAVEL GUIDE: MAURITIUS

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FEEL THE LIFE, PULSE & ENERGY OF MAURITIUS! Welcome to this special Mauritius travel guide, where we speak to Mr Lindsay Morvan OSK, MSK, Director of Tourism Authority.

People across the world have made Mauritius their holiday destination of choice since the 1950s, but we’re now expanding the possibilities of what that means. In the age of sustainability, we’re looking to offer more than just the white sand beaches and turquoise lagoons that our island is famed for. In particular, we are focusing on integrating sustainability throughout our sector in order to open up new national parks for exploration and adventure.

For many years now, people have known Mauritius for its resort hotels that overlook the lagoons and coral reef surrounding the island. They have helped drive a constant growth in visitors. By 2019, we had 110 hotels and approximately 1000 Tourist Residences and Guest Houses that accommodated 1.4 million tourists throughout the year. However, such a large number of visitors has put pressure onto the coastline’s natural ecology. That’s why we want to try and bring tourists inland.

Mr Lindsay Morvan OSK,MSK, Director of Tourism Authority.

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 47

What we at the Mauritius Tourism Authority want to do is work with our main tour operators to make them aware of these opportunities. We want them to make nature base tourism part of their mainstream offers. That’s essential because in 2019, when we received 1.4 million visitors, 60% of them still arrived in the country via traditional operators. That doesn’t even include online travel agencies (OTAs). Therefore, encouraging tour operators to promote inland packages is a core part of our sustainability commitment.

It’s not just national parks, either. We want visitors to explore our local communities and experience the deep culture and heritage that Mauritius can offer. To do this, we are running programs that will train taxi drivers, tour guides to empower them on the best practices. That means the drivers can offer half- or full-day packages bringing tourists into the villages that are dotted across the island. There they can eat with the inhabitants, spend time with them, and buy from local artisans.

Whether it is major tour operators or independent taxi drivers, the Mauritius Tourism Authority is working with as many individuals and organisations as possible in order to create a green and sustainable tourism sector. Since June of 2023, the Mauritius Tourism Authority has set up the Sustainable Tourism Unit (STU), building upon the 48 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

foundations of Sustainable Island Mauritius (SIM), which was co-funded by the European Union and which ended in December 2022. Through STU, we will accompany the approximately 6000 operators to guide them on lowering the carbon footprint of their activities. Since 2018, we have already worked with more than 3500 individuals, but STU will continue until everyone is involved.

We have developed a system to achieve this. The Mauritius Pro-Handprint Innovation Framework (MauPHI) was produced through a four-year collaboration with our partner Collaborating Centre on Sustainable Consumption and Production. The MauPHI Impact Criteria consists of

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11 potential impact categories against which any operator or services provider can assess themselves. They include measures for everything from product attractiveness and impact on cultural heritage, to customer awareness and emissions values. By leveraging this toolkit, we can promote sustainability throughout the entire supply chain.

Three thousand, five hundred individuals have been trained on how to use it since 2018. However, from 2024, the Mauritius Tourism Authority, through its parent Ministry of Tourism, will consider making MauPHI a mandatory requirement for all 6000 operators in the country.

They will need to provide us with data for their energy consumption, water consumption, waste management, community development, and many other metrics that show their efforts towards sustainable tourism.

We want this because we aim to differentiate Mauritius from other destinations in the region. Our goal is to become the first destination in the southern hemisphere to hold a green destination accreditation, which we plan to achieve by 2030. Ensuring that every operator complies with the MauPHI metrics is our way of accomplishing that.

We have started the process by selecting two pilot areas in which all the operators will need to meet STU’s demands. They are the village of Bel Ombre, on the southern coast, and the island of Rodrigues. In these two regions, we have started the certification process through a recognised Certification body called Green Destinations. Over the next year, we will bring these two regions in line with the accreditation standards. Then, through the lessons learned with those two pilots, we can then convert the whole of Mauritius by 2030.

Alongside the Green Destinations certification, we want every single operator recognised as meeting the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s (GSTC) standards.

At present, of the 110 operational hotels on the island, more than 40 already hold a GSTC certificate. That’s nearly 50%, a good figure compared to many other destinations. But we want to go further and ensure every single of the operators, service providers and product manufacturers along the value chain hold an approved certificate.

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TRAVEL GUIDE: MAURITIUS

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Something that we’re already supporting is an initiative known as Made in Moris. This is operated by our partners, the Association of Mauritian Manufacturers, and encourages the resorts to source as much as they can from local manufacturers and producers. It’s an important sustainability initiative not just from an environmental perspective but an economic one as well. The majority of our visitors stay at one of the 110 hotels, and our goal is to ensure that at least 50% of the supply chain for each one of those is local. Making the hotels as sustainable as possible will ground the country’s overall strategy.

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Mauritius Tourism Authority has been working with the Mauritius Bankers Association to develop a system for green financing. It is understood that a number of SMEs in the country have expressed that the biggest barrier preventing them from pursuing sustainability is finance.

So, we worked with the banking association to produce a pamphlet that highlighted the types of green measures and technologies that SMEs could implement, as well as the financial options available to support them in doing so. Like Made in Maurice, this initiative represents an important step in helping every link along the supply chain.

In 2022, we held the first Sustainable Tourism Mauritius Awards. While we actively advocate for a widespread green transition, we also sought a way to recognise their efforts. Different categories were established, including large accommodation, small accommodation, restaurant, tour operators, nature-based tours, and many more.

Individuals or businesses interested in participating could nominate themselves for an award after which our auditors would conduct thorough assessments of their operations. The participants in the first awards found high value in the recognition, prompting us to host a second ceremony this year, with further plans to organise the 3rd edition in 2024.

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TRAVEL GUIDE: MAURITIUS

All of this is essential because in the end Mauritius, as an island country in the Indian Ocean, is vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Rising sea levels pose a threat to the nation’s survival while heating oceans have the potential to destroy the vulnerable coral reef surrounding the country. We recognise that travelling to Mauritius is itself somewhat problematic because it’s almost necessary to arrive here by plane. That’s why we’re doing everything we can to make every other aspect of Mauritian tourism environmentally friendly.

Moreover, money generated through the tourism sector will play an important part in securing a future for the nation’s resilience and biodiversity.

Mauritius is a unique environment. Its isolation has led to an incredible biodiversity, with 39% of plants, 80% of non-marine birds, 80% of reptiles and 40% of bat species found on the island considered endemic. For example, there are 23 different reptile species in the 52 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

country – 22 of which are found only here. Meanwhile, the 691 indigenous flowers species on the island has led the World Conservation Union to recognising Mauritius as a Centre of Plant Diversity. We’re proud of this and want not only to preserve this precious landscape but also to share it as widely as possible.

As we open up our national parks, we want visitors to be certain that they are visiting in a way that will help rather than hinder our environment. That’s why we’ve implemented SIM and are course-correcting our entire tourism industry. We believe Mauritius will be a unique destination in the southern hemisphere, one where tourism contributes to the livelihood of our people, animals and plants. The coronavirus pandemic dealt a blow to our sector – as it did everywhere – but we’re well on our way to recovering the historic highs of 2019. But this time, Mauritius will do it in the most ecological and economically sustainable way possible.

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Feel the life, pulse & energy

mauritiusnow.com SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 53

TRAVEL GUIDE: MAURITIUS

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MAURITIUS KEY FACTS

MAURITIUS 54 | SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Capital:

Port Louis

Population:

1.266 million (2021)

Language(s):

Mauritian Creole, French, English

Currency:

Mauritian Rupee

Time zone:

GMT +4

Dialling code:

+230

Major cities:

Port Louis, Vacoas, Beau Bassin-Rose Hill, Curepipe, Quatre Bornes, Triolet, Goodlands, Centre de Flacq, St Pierre

Tourist season:

All year round

Annual visitors:

997,290 (2022)

Annual tourism earnings:

383 Billion US$ (2021)

Avg. temperature:

79 °F (hottest month - January) 50 °F (coldest month - July)

Highest point:

Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire (Little Black River Peak) - 828 m (2717 ft)

KEY ATTRACTIONS

1.

Ile aux Cerfs

9.

2.

Les 7 Cascades

10. Bel Ombre Nature Reserve

3.

SSR Botanic Garden

11. Notre Dame Auxiliatrice

4.

Le Morne Brabant

12. Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth Geopark

5.

La Vallée des Couleurs

13. Nature Reserves

6.

La Vanille Nature Park

14. Waterfalls

7.

L’Aventure Du Sucre

15. Beaches

8.

Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve

16. Golf

Ile des Deux Cocos

17. Diving 18. Hiking

11

14

7

1 9

3

2

19

8

12 7 4

9

5

13

10 6

TRAVEL GUIDE: MAURITIUS

WHATTO DO...

PORT LOUIS

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Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius, and the first place that you will experience when arriving in the country. The first thing to hit you when you explore the city is its mix of contemporary urban and French colonial architecture.

has its own atmosphere, making it stand out from the rest of Mauritius, and offers firsttime visitors everything they could want to orient themselves on the island. Moreover, it is within walking distance to other Port Louis attractions.

Visit Le Caudan Waterfront, a new commercial development in the heart of the city.

This area of Port Louis is almost its own town, containing everything from banks and restaurants to a crafts market and casino. This place

Central Market is a big open-air market where traders sell fruit, vegetables, meat, textiles, crafts, and hot food. This is the market that locals use, so its an ideal place to get to grips with Mauritian culture.

WHAT TO DO AND SEE

Place d’Armes hosts Government House, an 18th Century French colonial building that is today used for the government’s daily sessions. There are also statues of Queen Victoria and colonial governor Mahé de Labourdonnais, making this an important place to visit in understanding Mauritius’ history.

The Blue Penny Museum is another great attraction for understanding the island’s colonial and post-colonial past. Named after the one penny and two penny stamps, the collections inside are far wider ranging than postal history. There are historic maps, paintings, photographs, and sculptures that tell the island’s history. The Blue Penny Museum is situated within Le Caudan Waterfront, but deserves its own visit.

Les Jardins de la Compagnie is a green park lined with beautiful banyan trees and water fountains located just a stone’s throw from Place d’Armes. The garden is an ideal place to get away from the city bustle.

Street food is available throughout Port Louis, and is a fundamental way of connecting with Mauritian culture. Try the Mauritian biryani, a skilfully prepared take on the Indian dish, containing rice with vegetables and meat cooked in aromatic spices. There’s also dholl-puris, fratatas and alouda, all of which are delightful savoury snacks. Meanwhile, the gateaux piments is unmissable. It’s a chilli cake made from yellow split peas, deep fried with spices and chilli, and moulded into a bite-sized ball. There’s plenty of other dishes available from street carts, though, so don’t be afraid to try something new.

Discover the Aapravasi Ghat, the UNESCO World Heritage site, which holds significant importance in the history of the country. It translates to “The Immigration Depot”, which served as the primary entry point of entry for immigrants. Here you can learn about the stories of the indentured laborers who arrived in Mauritius during the 19th century.

The Champ de Mars Racecourse is another great spot if you are interested in horse racing. It is the oldest racecourse in the southern hemisphere and holds significant cultural and sporting importance for the island.

Fort Adelaide or ‘La Citadelle’ is a historical fortress located on a hilltop in Port Louis, which stands as a reminder of the island’s colonial past and the significance of its historical heritage.

Port Louis is just the gateway to Mauritius, so while it contains many of its own attractions, there are many more across the island. The most immediate of those is Le Pouce, the third highest mountain on the island, and just a few miles outside the capital. The trailheads are easily reached by public transport and reaching the summit is relatively easy. Once there, it will reward you with an incredible 360-degree view across the island.

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 57

TRAVEL GUIDE: MAURITIUS

Black River Gorges National Park is a native forest containing numerous endemic plant and animal species. It is located in the south-west of the island and easily reachable by public transport. There are pre-defined trails that take you through the most gorgeous parts of the park and enable you to see unique animals such as the pink pigeon and Mauritian bat as well as endemic centenary trees. There are sheer cliffs, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, bridges and incredible views – particularly from the Gorges and Macchabée viewpoints. The park is most easily accessed from the nearby town of Chamarel. You could also start at the village of Bel Ombre, which is home to one of Mauritius’s two pilot sustainable tourism projects.

Bras d’Eau National Park is way out in the east of the island, a few miles from the town of Poste Lafayette. It’s an unusual location because it was once a centre for the country’s sugar industry, with French colonialists building sugarcane mills in the area and locals settling nearby for jobs. However, once abandoned, nature reclaimed Bras d’Eau. As a result, there are building ruins in the 400 hectare park, some of which are visitable. There are also plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas, bird watching sites, and even a visitor center to learn more about the park’s incredible biodiversity. There is even Bras d’Eau beach on its eastern tip, a small alcove that’s nonetheless separate from the beaches of nearby Porte Lafayette.

Grande Montagne Nature Reserve is on the island of Rodrigues. It encompasses the Grand Montagne mountain range and is a crucial part of preserving the last remaining indigenous and endemic forest of Rodrigues. The 25 hectare park is home to rare species including the Rodrigues fruit bat and Rodrigues warbler bird. Free guided tours through the reserve are given by the Mauritius Wildlife Foundation throughout the week. These are highly recommended, as trekking unguided through the forest is difficult. Reaching Rodrigues is also a challenge – it is some 600km from Mauritius itself, and reachable only by ship.

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A HAVEN OF TROPICAL BLISS IN MAURITIUS Tucked away in the tranquil corners of the Indian Ocean is Mauritius, a paradise that holds within it a gem called the Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa. Located on the pristine eastern shores of the island, this adults-only 4-star resort offers a luxurious gateway to heaven, wrapped in blue seas and golden sands. Here, life is a seamless blend of relaxation, culinary adventures, and scenic beauty.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a serene place to escape from the daily grind, Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa, Mauritius offers an idyllic setting for ultimate relaxation and indulgence.

ACCOMMODATION Where Luxury Meets Comfort With 100 elegantly designed rooms boasting stunning ocean views, the resort ensures your stay is nothing short of spectacular.

Designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers, rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities such as free high-speed Wi-Fi, mini-bars, and in-room coffee and tea facilities.

CULINARY DELIGHTS A Gastronomic Journey Nautilus: An all-day dining experience overlooking the dazzling pool. Offering a buffet breakfast and an à la carte menu for lunch and dinner, Nautilus lets you indulge in the finest international cuisine.

The Deck: Dive into the rich tapestry of Mauritian cooking. From sumptuous seafood to delectable spices, The Deck is where your palate discovers Mauritius.

Two Exquisite Beach Resorts, Aqua Beach Restaurant: Ideal for light meals One Unforgettable Experience and refreshments, this restaurant brings From couples to families and adults-only bliss, discover our sustainable you closer to the sand and surf, offering sanctuaries certified by Green Key. Embrace Mauritius in style, bistro bites. where everydelicious moment is extraordinary.

Rooftop Bar: With a cocktail in hand, gaze into the mesmerizing horizon as the sky paints itself in shades of dusk. The tapas menu is an added bonus!

Activities and Amenities

Feel the Difference

THE OASIS OF WELLNESS Spa: Detoxify, relax, and rejuvenate with

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a variety of spa treatments featuring local botanicals and traditional techniques.

Swimming Pool: Take a dip in the lavish pool and bask in the glorious Mauritian sun, while enjoying poolside service for that extra touch of luxury.

ISLAND ADVENTURES Beach Activities: Kayaking, snorkeling, or simply lounging—choose your favorite way to enjoy the crystal-clear waters.

Local Attractions: Visit the bustling Grand Bay tourist hub for shopping and nightlife, or experience the local culture at the Flacq market.

BUSINESS AND EVENTS Hosting a small event or business meeting?

The resort’s stylish conference room is perfect for intimate functions, accommodating up to 16 delegates. With state-of-the-art facilities and awe-inspiring views, your event will surely be a memorable one.

RADISSON BLU AZURI RESORT & SPA, MAURITIUS:

A SANCTUARY OF EXQUISITE TROPICAL ELEGANCE Nestled on the pristine northeastern coast of Mauritius, the Radisson Blu Azuri Resort & Spa is the epitome of tropical luxury. Framing the picturesque Azuri village, this resort delivers a one-of-a-kind experience for both couples seeking a romantic getaway and families looking for a fun-filled vacation. With the world’s third-largest coral reef just off the coast, the resort is a magnet for lovers of white sand beaches and crystalline lagoons.

If you’re searching for an unforgettable island experience that caters to both relaxation and adventure, look no further. With its unparalleled location, sumptuous dining options, and range of activities, Radisson Blu Azuri Resort & Spa, Mauritius offers something for everyone. Experience the best of island living, where no detail — or taste bud — is left untouched.

ACCOMMODATION Upon arrival, guests will be ushered into one of the resort’s 100 meticulously designed rooms. Each room opens onto a furnished balcony or terrace, allowing guests to take in panoramic views of the lush tropical landscape that engulfs the resort. Modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, in-room coffee and tea facilities, and luxurious bedding ensure a comfortable stay.

CULINARY DELIGHTS Dining at Radisson Blu Azuri Resort & Spa is nothing short of spectacular. Guests are spoilt for choice with four on-site restaurants and bars, offering a palate-pleasing range of local, Mediterranean, and international cuisines.

Le Comptoir: A buffet that takes you on a culinary journey around the world.

Beachside Restaurants: Perfect for those who want to dine with sand between their toes.

Café: Offers a mouthwatering selection of pastries Beach and high-quality coffee.

Two Exquisite Resorts, Pool Bar: Your go-to spot for a refreshing One Unforgettable Experience cocktail while you lounge by the pool.

Feel the Difference

From couples to families and adults-only bliss, discover our sustainable sanctuaries certified by Green Key. Embrace Mauritius in style, AND AMENITIES where everyACTIVITIES moment is extraordinary.

Beyond relaxation, the resort is a treasure trove of activities. Whether you’re inclined to partake in land sports like tennis and cycling or water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking, you’re covered. For those looking for ultimate relaxation, the on-site spa offers a menu of rejuvenating treatments to help you unwind.

BOOK YOUR STAY WITH US sales.mru@radissonblu.com | +230 402 3700 radissonhotels.com/Mauritius Radisson Blu Azuri Resort & Spa | Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS As you bask in the luxury and natural beauty of Radisson Blu Azuri Resort & Spa, rest assured that the resort takes its environmental responsibilities seriously. Guests are encouraged to be mindful of their resource usage to help protect this idyllic corner of the planet.

EXPERIENCE THE GOOD LIFE A SERENE ECO-LODGE RETREAT

Nestled in the fishing village of Cap Malheureux in the north of Mauritius, The Good Life stands as an exemplary eco-lodge.

Rooted in a profound dedication to sustainable tourism,

Amidst the tranquil ambiance, you’ll find the perfect

this establishment offers a distinctive and authentic experi-

opportunity to unwind, disconnect, and embark on a

ence set within an intimate and tranquil backdrop, beckon-

holistic voyage towards self-care.

ing you to embrace a “healthy and happiness” journey.

Indulge in the rhythm of island life, where tranquility Our invitation extends to you—a chance to uncover the

and environmental consciousness intertwine seamlessly.

beauty of Mauritius in its most unembellished form, a

Let the whispers of the surrounding nature guide you

stone’s throw away from nature’s embrace. This intimate

towards a state of balance and well-being. This is The

haven serves as a sanctuary of serenity providing the

Good Life Mauritius—an oasis of mindful indulgence, an

ideal space to rejuvenate both your body and soul.

ode to sustainable harmony.

Discover more at www.thegoodlifemauritius.com

WHAT TO DO AND SEE

Islets National Park is not a singe location but a reserve incorporating eight islands off the coast of Mauritius. It rests off the north-east coast of the island and is much closer than Rodrigues island. As a result, it is a popular destination for Mauritians themselves. Ile d’Ambre is the largest and most popular of the islands. There you will find rocky beaches, volcanic craters, and mangrove forests. There is plenty of bird life here as well as several endemic species of butterflies such as the Mauritian friar.

Ile d’Ambre is reached by boat from the mainland town of Grand Gaube.

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TRAVEL GUIDE: MAURITIUS The idyllic beaches The beaches of Mauritius are evocative of dream, escape and heat.

Surrounded by beautiful white sandy beaches and cliffs that offer, together with the blue lagoon, an extraordinary scene that varies according to the seasons and the time of the day.

In the North, the calm and sheltered lagoons call for relaxation and lay back, with a pleasant temperature all the time. Péreybère and Mont Choisy are the most popular beaches.

The south-west wind blowing more or less strongly all year round, makes the waves dance endlessly.

The East coast features a long stretch of beautiful sandy beaches, but it is also the windiest part of the island, especially in winter.

One of the most popular beaches, Belle Mare, is also one of the longest beaches on the island. Ile aux Cerfs, an isle set in the lagoon a few minutes by boat from the coast.

Flic-en-Flac is a seaside village on the west coast of Mauritius in the district of Black River. Its public white sandy beach is one of the longest on the island.

Ebony Forest One of the last remaining forests in Mauritius is a crucial conservation area. Budding naturalists will enjoy a trip to the Ebony Forest, a major conservation project committed to reversing the impact of habitat degradation in Mauritius and creating a sanctuary for the island’s unique and rich flora and fauna. The lush Ebony Forest is an act of love – since 2006, the forest’s conservation team have been working tirelessly to weed, plant and grow native and endemic plants.

Diving in Mauritius Discover Mauritius as you would never have imagined it. With stunning underwater sceneries featuring a rich fauna and flora, and numerous wrecks lying on the sand for hundreds of years for some of them, the island offers an extraordinary adventure playground to amateur and professional divers.

Anyone fore Golf Mauritius has some of the world’s best golf courses. There are over a dozen golf courses to discover, some designed by the likes of Bernhard Langer and Ernie Els, where perfectly manicured greens lead to views of the ocean and mountains beyond. You can even hop on a boat over to Ile aux Cerfs Golf Course to play on an offshore island – it is often voted one of the top 100 golf courses in the world.

Ile aux Aigrettes Nature Reserve This small islet is surrounded by a ring of coral and ebony forest covers its landscape, situated in the Mahebourg Bay, about 85 m off the south-east coast of Mauritius. Unlike the mainland which is of volcanic origin, Ile aux Aigrettes is made up of coralline limestone. You can enjoy a guided tour, keeping a lookout for rare plants, reptiles, tortoises and beautiful birds, including the pink pigeon, Mauritius fody and Mauritius olive white-eye.

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ATTRACTIONS & EXPERIENCES

Chamarel Waterfalls Undoubtedly the tallest single-drop waterfall in Mauritius at about 100m high, the Chamarel Waterfall is a striking piece of nature standing amid dense vegetation. Fed by the waters of three distinct streams pouring into Saint Denis River, it has a powerful rush with a peak flow rate in excess of 40,000 m³ per minute.

La Vallée des Couleurs Forget all your worries and daily stress. Let yourself be carried away by the mystery of La Vallee des Couleurs Nature Park! Since the 23-coloured Earth was discovered on the 4th of July 1998, it has become one of the most famous attractions for Mauritians and foreigners. Stroll on foot, trip on the of quad & buggys or discover the park by making yourself comfortable in our Jeeps.

Le Morne Brabant Dicovering the Morne Brabant - The slave route The Morne Brabant is a mountain of the south-west of Mauritius, on the peninsula of the Morne. Declared World Heritage by UNESCO since July 6, 2008, the site is a sanctuary for runaway slaves and is a strong cultural and patrimonial symbol for every Mauritian.

L’Aventure Du Sucre Not far from the Botanical Garden of Pamplemousse, a bougainvillea and coconut trees alley, a pond lined with lush nature ... in this stunning tropical setting stands the massive renovated sugar mill which is one of the most spectacular attraction of the island!

La Vanille Nature Park La Vanille Nature Park is an idyllic and stunning park of lush tropical vegetation covering 3.5 hectares. Enjoy the unforgettable experience of walking amongst the largest group of captive-bred giant Aldabra tortoises in the world.

Bel Ombre Nature Reserve Bel Ombre Nature Reserve. Four words that sound like a promise. Nestled in the heart of Bel Ombre, this protected domaine of 1,300 hectares hosts a unique biodiversity. With its endemic flora and fauna, ancestral forests and vestiges of past glories, it is a territory of striking beauty and character.

Notre Dame Auxiliatrice One of the most renowned churches in Mauritius is the Notre Dame Auxiliatrice Chapel, a Roman Catholic Church famous for its vivid red roof against the bright turquoise sea and azure sky.

Located ten minutes from Grand Bay is the small fishing village of Cap Malheureux.

Dolphin & Whale watching Take to the water and go Dolphin and Whale wathcing, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, explore a side of Mauritius that other tourists rarely see.

Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth Geopark Welcome to the heights of Chamarel. A destination whose geology is a wonderful work of art, complemented by a perfect harmony of colors. Early mornings are a call to adventure, right in the heart of Chamarel’s exotic world. Meander through the winding roads of its wild mountains SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 65

TRAVEL GUIDE: MAURITIUS

WHERE TO STAY One of the most important decisions visitors must make when visiting Mauritius is where to stay. Fortunately, there are 100 hotels and nearly 1000 guests houses spread throughout the island, so wherever you choose there is bound to be suitable accommodation for you.

IN THE NORTH: Grand Baie is Mauritius’ most popular tourist resort. Don’t let that put you off, though! Its postcard-perfect beaches and coves make it the ideal place for water-based adventures. There are plenty of tour operators here offering everything from water skiing to scuba diving. The town also has an incredible nightlife!

The peaceful town of Cap Malheureux, most famous for it’s red-roofed Notre Dame Auxiliatrice church. This is a village of fishermen, so expect to find the finest quality seafood at its diners and restaurants.

Cap Malheaueux

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A little further around the cape is Grand Gaube, a village that combines colonial architecture with indigenous folklore. It has a stunning rocky coastline and one of the white sand beaches that Mauritius is most famous for. There are plenty of restaurants here too for tying out local cuisine.

Anse La Raie is a tiny village between Cap Malheureux and Calodyne. You’ll want to stay here to enjoy the wild headland and snorkelling in the aqua blue lagoon.

Le Chateau de Labourdonnais is a beautifully restored colonial mansion and estate with orchards, gardens and a rum distillery.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE SOUTH: Bel Ombre should be your first choice for a sustainable destination as it is part of STU’s green destination pilot project.

There are plenty of hotels here overlooking the beach, which itself is subject to awe-inspiring views of coral reefs. Golfers are particularly encouraged to stay here, as there are 18-hole courses nearby and even the Golf du Chateau hotel that has its own 9-hole course.

Mahebourg is an ideal place to spend time among locals. It’s filled with fishermen, markets, street food stalls and tiny winding streets. The town was Mauritius’s first settlement, and it has managed to survive with very little touristic expansion.

Ile aux Aigrettes is a small offshore islet which is a nature reserve and home to endangered endemic species like the Mauritian Kestrel and Pink Pigeon. At the same time, you can enjoy a boat trip.

Chamarel

Chamarel is the gateway to the Black River Gorges National Park, but it also its own attractive destination. Its most iconic feature is the Seven Colored Earth, where the land itself is comprised of layers of seven differently coloured clay. Nearby is the incredible Chamarel waterfall. There are plenty of hotels to choose from in the local area.

Sagar Mandir Hindu

Ile aux Cerfs

IN THE EAST: It is impossible to talk about the east of Mauritius without mentioning Belle Mare. It has the island’s iconic long white sand beach with a mountainous hinterland behind. The town itself is called Beau Champ, and contains the remains of several sugar mill chimneys. From here you can also reach the Ile aux Cerfs, which is itself a stunning resort island.

Belle Mare

Poste Lafeyette is home to several high-end resort hotels that are the doorstep to an idyllic beach holiday. There are golf courses, marine diving and skydiving experiences, as well as some of the island’s best restaurants. Nearby are the impressive Sagar Shri Mandir Hindu temple and market village of Flacq. This seaside resort is also the gateway to the Bras d’Eau national park.

Grand Sable is a small town that’s fairly southerly along the east coast. However, it is also the starting point for visits to numerous attractions including Montagne Blanche, the Roches Noires Caves, Notre Dame des Anges chapel, and the Pointe du Diable colonial-era fort.

Ile aux Cerfs The island lies off Trou d’Eau Douce in the largest lagoon of Mauritius and offers 87 hectares of luxuriant vegetation and preserved, white, sandy beaches. Besides the Ile Aux Cerfs Golf Club, one can also experience three beach restaurants and engage in a wide variety of activities on Ile aux Cerfs.

Depart from the village of Trou d’Eau Douce and spend the whole day on the island.

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Nestled within a tranquil evening ambiance, our distinguished Ginger Thai Restaurant boasts an exquisite backdrop adorned with captivating Thai artworks. Our meticulously curated menu showcases the epitome of authentic Thai gastronomy, characterized by its delicacy, tantalizing spice, and unparalleled freshness.

Grand re-opening of Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa is 23 October 2023

*Bookings for this distinguished Restaurant at the Resort is most definitely recommended

DISCOVER THE NEW HILTON MAURITIUS RESORT & SPA: YOUR PARADISE REIMAGINED The iconic Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa is on the verge of unveiling a transformative experience for its esteemed guests. Scheduled from April 15 to October 22, 2023, the resort is undergoing a substantial renovation. The new look will be revealed on October 23, 2023, for advance bookings.

After a minor refurbishment in 2014/2015, this comprehensive overhaul aims to elevate your vacation to a luxurious and modern plane, while still encapsulating the spirit of Mauritius. From our rooms to the restaurants and bars, every corner of the Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa is getting a makeover. The Hilton are committed to offering a contemporary and elegant setting without compromising on the traditional Mauritian charm. We invite you to be part of this new chapter and to rediscover paradise, re-imagined.

ACCOMMODATION Room Types: 75 Guest Deluxe Rooms: Classic comfort with a contemporary flair.

100 Grand Deluxe Guest Rooms: An opulent upgrade offering expansive spaces.

18 Suites: The pinnacle of luxury.

Room Views: Garden View: A green retreat Pool View: The shimmering blues Beach / Sunset View: Golden hues and the vastness of the ocean Building Details: Number of Stories: 3 Levels Market Mix: Primarily catering to leisure travellers (88%) with a smaller market segment of group and business travellers (12%).

DINING EXPERIENCES Pomme D’Amour Location: Ground Floor Formerly known as La Pomme D’Amour, this main restaurant gazes out onto the lagoon and the vast ocean. Featuring an American breakfast and a daily international buffet with a Creole touch, it brings Mauritius to your table.

Ginger Thai Location: Ground Floor Savour an evening of tranquillity at Ginger Thai. The restaurant is decorated with intricate Thai artworks and offers a menu replete with authentic Thai dishes.

Coquillages Bar and Restaurant previously Les Coquillages Location: Beach front Previously La Coquillages, now enjoy a relaxed meal with your feet in the sand during lunch or under the stars for dinner.

Kesari Location: Pavilion area in Pomme D’Amour The new entrant in our culinary repertoire, Kesari offers a thematic Indian experience for your taste buds.

BARS AND LOUNGES Sunset Bar Location: Lobby Level Replacing Vista Bar, the Sunset Bar offers panoramic lagoon views. Perfect for a cocktail with local rum and a front-row seat to the Torch Lighting Ceremony.

Hibiscus Bar Location: Infinity Pool area Adjacent to the infinity pool, Hibiscus Bar is where signature and international cocktails meet mesmerizing sunsets.

A Zen and trendy place!

SPA Rejuvenate your senses at our newlyrenovated spa, offering a variety of treatments designed for ultimate relaxation.

KIDS CLUB The renovation extends to the Kids Club, aiming to offer our young guests an unforgettable vacation of their own.

Scan here to book your stay

Flic-en-Flac

Tamarin

IN THE WEST: Flic-en-Flac is a popular tourist destination and contains all of the travellers want, whether you’re alone, a couple, or a family. The nearby Casela natural reserve is carefully engineered to blend the island’s natural landscapes with family adventure experiences such as a water park and zoo.

Le Morne village located on the southwestern tip of the island known for le Morne Brabant, a basaltic mountain with high cultural and historical significance.

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Quatre Bornes is in the centre and is the living, working, breathing hub of Mauritius’s residents. You will find the modern, day-to-day life of Mauritius here. As such, it makes for an unusual tourist destination but a great place to stay if you want to see what real life is like.

There are plenty of markets, street food carts, shopping centres and historic buildings to visit here. There is even the Trou aux Cerfs, a dormant volcano crater that’s now a lake. Its central location also means it’s well connected to nearly all other parts of the island.

Tamarin is a small village popular with people interested in sea sports such as kitesurfing and bodyboarding. Tour operators also offer dolphin and whale watching tours that start at Tamarin. This is an authentic Mauritian village that has escaped the urbanisation or glitzy redevelopment that tourist attractions can sometimes experience.

LICENSED BY THE TOURISM AUTHORITY

Relax & Enjoy the beauty of Mauritius at our Self-Catering Guest House A more Sustainable Choice...

By choosing West Sand Holidays, Flic en Flac, you can have all the comforts of a wonderful stay that goes the extra mile to make your stay more sustainable.

Book your stay with us Tel + 230 453 55 19 • Whatsapp +230 5 948 57 80

www.west-sand.com

We treat our guests like family Escape to paradise and indulge in an unforgettable stay at our eco-friendly tourist residence in the enchanting coastal town of Flic en Flac, Mauritius. West Sand offers a haven of tranquillity, impeccable service, and stunning natural beauty.

Our elegantly designed rooms and suites supply the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Each unit is tastefully furnished and equipped with modern amenities to ensure your stay is both relaxing and convenient.

Wake up to breathtaking ocean views and relish in the peaceful atmosphere that surrounds you. Our attentive staff is dedicated to making your stay exceptional, catering to your every need with warmth and professionalism and is committed to ensuring your stay exceeds all expectations.

Contact details: Tel + 230 453 55 19 Whatsapp +230 5 948 57 80 www.west-sand.com

ATTITUDE HOTELS

RETHINKING SUSTAINABILITY IN THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY

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Since its creation in 2008, Attitude Hotels has demonstrated a commitment to the sustainable development of Mauritius. For 15 years, the group has promoted and supported the local economy and community through all of its initiatives. We talk to Juliette Deloustal, Sustainability Manager at Attitude Hotels, to find out how this group of nine hotels is leading the way in eco-committed holidays.

Where do you start in setting sustainable goals for Attitude Hotels?

The initiatives and actions we take at Attitude Hotels aim, as much as possible, to be aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which consists of 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Our strategy focuses mainly on three goals where clear objectives are set, and the results can be quantified to ensure that the targets are being met.

WE FOCUS ON: • Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth • Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production • Goal 14: Life below water Nevertheless, even if we put all our heart and efforts into strengthening our commitments to these three SDGs, we do not forget the other 14 SDGs in our decisions.

Attitude is now a company with a purpose. What does this mean?

The group’s focus on sustainable tourism has grown over the years to become central to its purpose. Far more than a results-oriented

company, Attitude is now a company with a purpose. Attitude Hotels aims to unite hotel guests, partners and the inhabitants of Mauritius around a sustainable and well-thoughtthrough model.

Three pillars set out a sustainable development strategy for all nine hotels in Mauritius: 1. We protect our environment: Because we cherish our island, we owe it to ourselves to protect it. At Attitude, this means adopting new consumption habits to reduce our impact on the natural world. On a global level, our ambition is to establish a path of sustainable tourism, with eco-committed hotels that truly care about the environment.

Juliette Deloustal, Sustainability Manager at Attitude Hotels

ATTITUDE HOTELS to be a welcoming and fulfilling place to work. We believe that this positive mindset helps spread kindness beyond our hotels to friends, family and the wider community.

Guests can have an Otentik Dinner with a local family

We are very proud to be certified as a Great Place to Work because of our focus on wellbeing, personal progression and quality of life at work. This year, we scored an amazing 85%.

We do this by investing in professional training and personal development coaching; providing good working conditions and involving the team in our sustainable development strategy. Our social events also promote individual talent and help strengthen our company culture.

2. We support the local economy: As a 100% Mauritian-owned company, supporting the local economy is central to our ethos. We prioritise commercial partnerships with local, eco-responsible businesses. We support Mauritian entrepreneurship, notably through our company Otentik Investments Ltd, and promote locally-produced food.

3. We care about the local community: This pledge starts at home with Attitude’s Family Members. We are dedicated to the personal and professional growth of our staff. We are focused on helping Mauritians to benefit from tourism. Finally, we support homegrown talent. We commission local craftspeople as part of our purchasing policy and put Mauritian artists in the spotlight. We also fund local projects, including Konpoz to Lamizik, a competition to find and nurture up-and-coming musical talent on the island.

When it comes to sustainable development, there is always room for improvement. That’s why, once we have achieved our objectives, we set new ones that go even further.

What has been the impact of banning single-use plastic at Attitude Hotels?

Since 1 November 2020, all of Attitude’s hotels have been committed to zero single-use plastic within the guest journey. This equates to 3.6 million less plastic objects per year.

Bottles, slippers, cotton swabs, individual packaging for cutlery, keys, garbage bags, shower caps: these are just some of the 50 items that have been permanently removed from our hotels. We’ve devised eco-friendly alternatives where needed.

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Can you weave sustainability into the more luxurious experiences within the hotels?

Yes! We created Spa POZ at each of our Attitude Hotels, drawing inspiration from the island’s beauty, nature and heritage. Mauritius is one of the most multi-cultural countries in the world and we didn’t want to lose the knowledge and techniques of treatments derived from our ancestral traditions. Our treatments are enriched with knowledge gained from all corners of the world.

Our beauty and massage products are 100% natural and exclusively produced for Spa POZ

by Indika, a Mauritian company that cultivates medicinal plants in the Ferney Valley to create health and wellness products. This helps support a local business and all of the products come in recyclable packaging.

Attitude Hotels has been voted the #1 company in Mauritius at the Great Place To Work Awards 2022. How have you achieved this?

Taking care of the community is, first and foremost, about taking care of our staff. We refer to our employees as Family Members because we are a family. Attitude aspires Spa POZ products are 100% natural and locally-made

All Attitude Hotels are Made in Moris certified. What does this mean?

The Made in Moris label certifies the Mauritian origin of products and services. It was created in 2013 to boost the Mauritian industry and promote local knowledge, skills and talents.

And this is exactly our approach at Attitude Hotels. All of our hotels have been accredited with the Made in Moris label since 2019, as soon as the certification was made available to the service sector. To obtain the Made in Moris label, we had to meet strict specifications. Our objectives included promoting Mauritian expertise and protecting local jobs.

We are pleased to show our commitment to promoting Mauritian culture, valuing the talents of our fellow citizens and prioritising our island’s businesses. We use locally-made crafts and furniture in our hotels; we use local farmers to grow our fruit and vegetables; and we create Otentik (authentic) experiences to encourage guests to discover the real Mauritius and our island culture. This includes our Otentik Dinner, where guests can have dinner with a local family in their home. It’s a great way for guests to see how welcoming Mauritians are and learn about life on the island.

Room at Lagoon Attitude

OBJECTIVES ACHIEVED BY ATTITUDE HOTELS: • • • • • • • •

0 single-use plastic in the guest experience 50% of food & beverage group purchases are from suppliers certified ‘Made in Moris’ 30 Mauritian designers are listed in the hotels’ Otentik Bazar shops 30% of dishes are vegetarian & vegan in Attitude’s 4-star hotels More than 300 children per year have attended an awareness session in the Marine Discovery Centre Family Members have completed 10,000 training hours on sustainable practices 4 partnership agreements signed between the Marine Discovery Centre & committed organisations The group’s carbon footprint has been calculated (scope 1 & 2)

We were the first hotel group to obtain the Made in Moris label in the Hotel Services category. Today, we have a sense of satisfaction and achievement. We made the decision to reduce our negative environmental impact, but also to boost our positive social and economic impact. Above all, it’s proof of the strength of our local ecosystem and the confidence we have in its quality.

We hope that other hotel groups and businesses will sign up to the same pledge. It will be good for our local economy.

The Attitude Group has achieved its target of sourcing 50% of its food and beverages from suppliers with the Made in Moris label. Why is this an important step in your strategy?

We set ourselves a pledge to ensure 50% of our group purchases were from Made in Moris companies.

First of all, it’s worth pointing out that the vast majority of our purchases have always been made by Mauritian companies manufacturing in the country. We don’t import anything directly and we don’t have a central purchasing unit. This support for the local economy and our confidence in Mauritian know-how has been in our DNA since the Group was founded.

Our commitment to Made in Moris is not at the expense of our other partners. The process can be summed up in three stages:

identification of labelled suppliers in our supply chain and their share; analysis of our purchases; and, finally, integration of labelled products and/or suppliers into our operations.

We made a distinction between the labelling of our suppliers, product quality and availability, and price. We have met with some of our partners to discuss the possibility of them applying for a Made in Moris label. This labelling process is comprehensive because it includes the local economy and sustainable development, which are important to us. There are also the long-standing suppliers in our ecosystem who can’t be labelled, but who are staying with us.

The Made in Moris Pledge™ represents the voluntary commitment of a company to source – on a predefined percentage – products and services labelled Made in Moris. The key to our success with our pledge remains the synergy between management, operations and procurement.

This allows it to have a supply chain that is more rooted in local production, to foster local innovation and, ultimately, lead to the establishment of a responsible local purchasing barometer.

What are today’s travellers concerned about?

It’s clear that tourists and travellers are more discerning in their decisions. They are

increasingly concerned about the social, economic and environmental impact of their trip and their stay. And that’s a fact. Right from the start, in 2008, we made the choice to develop a tourism offering that was authentically Mauritian, economically inclusive and respectful of our environment.

Our stated raison d’être and our adherence to Made in Moris both confirm and validate these commitments. Today, Attitude has 9 eco-committed hotels and 1,600 employees. These partnerships with local businesses are essential: they add real value to our customer experience and create economic wealth that stays in the region.

The tourism industry has evolved and now embraces the values of solidarity, inclusion and sustainable commitments. We hope that our approach will encourage other companies to take courageous decisions and become more firmly rooted in local and sustainable development.

What’s next on your list of future goals?

As soon as one objective is achieved, we set another. We are currently in the process of obtaining BCorp certification. Our final application was submitted in June 2023. The certification will prove that our company meets the highest standards of social and environmental performance. The submission was a huge amount of work, but we hope that it will be worth it. c SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MAGAZINE | 75

“AS A COASTAL STAKEHOLDER, WE HAVE TO MINIMISE OUR IMPACT” Nina Svensson Dubois Photo Credit Jason Goder

In 2019, the Attitude Group launched the Marine Discovery Centre at Lagoon Attitude hotel. We talk to Nina Svensson Dubois, Scientific Programme Manager from the Attitude Group, to find out more.

Why was the Marine Discovery Centre so important to set up?

Attitude created the Marine Discovery Centre to take concrete action to preserve Mauritius’ underwater life and help the fight against its degradation. The centre is located in the north of the island at Lagoon Attitude Hotel and it is a place where people can discover, exchange ideas and get involved in the preservation of Mauritius’ natural wonders. As a coastal stakeholder, we have to minimise our impact on the environment.

The Marine Discovery Centre aims to boost knowledge of the marine and coastal environment among the local community and hotel guests. It also contributes to critical scientific research via local and regional collaborations, which includes observing sea turtles and humpback whales and monitoring corals.

Nina shares her knowledge at the Marine Discovery Centre Image: Jason Goder

Guests are encouraged to explore the underwater snorkelling trail, which has educational signs to follow en route. The trail is in a protected area, helping to highlight the lagoon’s beauty and fragility. So far, over 20,000 people have visited the centre.

How does it support the group’s sustainability goals?

The Marine Discovery Centre is part of our group’s commitment to protecting the environment. It aims to bring guests, Family Members, and locals together to contribute to exploring and preserving marine and coastal ecosystems.

By working together, we are stronger. We have signed collaborations with local and regional partners, such as GLOBICE and Kelonia-CEDTM in La Réunion, the University of Mauritius and Odysseo.

Through awareness-raising, educational and scientific research projects, we exchange our experience and know-how. The centre is open to all. It has a saltwater aquarium, a library, educational tools and marine biologists on hand to share their knowledge. We also offer interactive activities that are very popular with schools, such as clean-ups of the beach and mangroves. The kids also help sort the trash afterwards, ready for recycling.

You ask hotel guests to help you collect data. How does this work?

We encourage guests to take part in the Citizen Science programme. Whether they have been snorkelling along our signposted underwater trail, diving or taking a trip on our glass-bottom boat, they can entrust us with their underwater photos. These photos are then used in our research and awareness-raising work, helping us improve our knowledge of Mauritius’ underwater life.

It’s a great way for them to contribute to science and conservation.

How is the Marine Discovery Centre financed?

The Attitude Group created the Green Attitude Foundation back in 2014 and this funds the project. A part of this funding is made up of voluntary contributions from our hotel guests during their stay. On their departure from the hotel, they can choose to donate 200 rupees (4 euros) per adult to the foundation. The Marine Discovery Centre at Lagoon Attitude hotel has been a success and we are creating other smaller versions of the centre in Attitude’s family-friendly hotels. Each of these smaller centres will focus on what is important to the ecosystem surrounding that hotel. For example, The Ravenala Attitude hotel, located at Baie aux Tortues in Balaclava, will be highlighting the preservation of sea turtles.

You can find out more about Attitude Hotels at hotels-attitude.com

Hotels that do good Staying with us means enjoying the sea and sun without harming the marine environment. Exploring Mauritius and meeting its inhabitants with the Otentik Discovery app.

Tasting the exceptional variety of the country's culinary traditions while supporting the local agro-economy.

Stopping by Spa POZ for a treatment using our 100% natural, handmade products. Realising that your time on the island can have a positive impact.

www.hotels-attitude.com

THE TOURISM AUTHORITY ANNOUNCES THE WINNERS FOR THE SUSTAINABLE TOURISM MAURITIUS AWARDS 2023 After much anticipation, we are pleased to announce the winners and stars of sustainable tourism in Mauritius and Rodrigues for this new edition of the Sustainable Tourism Mauritius Awards 2023.

The champions were announced live in the presence of the Honourable Louis Steven OBEEGADOO, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Housing and Land Use Planning and Minister of Tourism, along with the Honourable Kavydass RAMANO , Minister of Environment, Solid Waste Management and Climate Change. The impressive ceremony brought together the biggest names in the tourism sector for an inspiring evening of celebration and recognition.

These awards honour those people, teams and organisations who have made sustainability an integral part of their business practice and overall mission. The independent judging panel were highly impressed by the quality of this year’s submissions. It was clear to our judges that the vision and strategy of our winners will continue to deliver results towards a cleaner and more sustainable world.

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM MAURITIUS AWARDS 2023 WINNERS Sustainability Excellence Award 2023 Rogers Hospitality Boat and Pleasure Craft Gold: Folkloric Explorer Zero Pollution eBoat Silver: Croisières Australes Ltée Bronze: Blue Water Diving Centre Ltd Nature Based Activities Gold: Francois Leguat Ltd, Rodrigues Silver: La Vallée des Couleurs Nature Park Bronze Exaequo: Bel Ombre Nature Reserve (Cap D’Abondance Ltd) Bronze Exaequo: Ebony Forest Coup de Coeur: Magic Boat Co. Ltd Restaurants and Tables D’Hôte Gold: Restaurant l’Atelier Gourmand, Rodrigues Silver: Chez M Bronze: Le Chamarel Restaurant (Cap D’Abondance Ltd) Tourist Accommodations Gold: Origin Eco Chalet, Rodrigues Silver: The Good Life Bronze: La Giraudière Ecolodge, Rodrigues

The organising team wishes to extend its deepest appreciation to its partnersand sponsors; the MTPA, Air Mauritius, MariDeal, AfrAsia, MFDC, MCB,Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Environment and Solid Waste Management and Climate Change, Rodrigues Regional Assembly and LeMéridien Ile Maurice, for their wonderful contribution to the success of this awards ceremony.

Takamaka Winery, ecoSPIRITS, Eclosia, Rhumerie de Chamarel, and Scottfor enabling us to introduce and showcase 100% locally sourced productsthroughout the evening. We also extend our appreciation to Mr. Jon Burtenshaw from Beau Design Ltd, who created this year again our emblematic trophies from another recycled materials.

Once again, the organising committee congratulates all the finalists and winners and we look forward to another edition next year!

Tourism Authority

Tour Operators Gold: Mautourco Ltd Silver: SummerTimes Bronze: Kreola Ltd Hotel Gold: La Pirogue Hotel Silver: Zilwa Attitude Bronze Exaequo: Canonnier Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa Bronze Exaequo: Heritage Awali Coup de Coeur: The Westin Turtle Bay Resort and Spa

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