The challenge
A myriad of natural and human-induced processes threaten our global ecosystem, with current rates of habitat and species loss supporting the theory that the Earth has entered its 6th mass extinction event. While humankind has had an undeniable impact, we must be the solution. Extending beyond the precautionary approach, successful conservation and restoration of natural systems and species requires a framework to direct efforts and promote resilience to global change.
Our Approach
“To sustain natural ecosystems and human communities through conservation and restoration projects”
Our science-based conservation framework has prioritised four key global threats: climate change, changing land use, over-population and invasive species. Within the scope of these threats, we prioritise for conservation sensitive or biologically rich habitats, and threatened or keystone species.
This strategy is being implemented at all our properties through our conservation policies and strategy, accessing cross-sector collaborations with NGOs, academics, governments, resource users and the wider public. Long term monitoring of ecosystems and priority species proximal to our operations will inform and direct conservation programs while increasing awareness and promoting participatory engagement at all levels of interest and by people from all walks of life.
Our Goal
Integrate robust conservation efforts in to tourism operations with active participation by all stakeholders regardless of level of competency, to educate, conserve, restore and safeguard natural heritage of ecosystems and biodiversity.
Our Progress
Site-specific initiatives provide active and passive engagement opportunities to support environmental awareness, remediation, protection and restoration. Travel restrictions and lockdowns reduced total engagement by 21% in 2020, while reef protection and restoration efforts in the Maldives were halted from March.
Detailed progress for individual conservation projects below.
TURTLE CONSERVATION
Twelve properties had turtle conservation programmes, primarily focussed on generating awareness among travellers, local communities and fishermen, and hatchling releases in partnership with local organisations or research centres.
Since 1994, Laguna Phuket has raised $224,575 to support the Phuket Marine Biology Centre and released 2,145 turtles.
Fewer turtles were released and engagement was lower due to the completion of the conservation project in the Maldives.
To download our latest turtle report use the link below.
SHARK CONSERVATION
We reached a milestone in our longterm monitoring of shark populations in the Maldives, completing our fifth year with 33,540 minutes of underwater footage collected to date.
Surveys initiated in a second atoll, and annual report were submitted to fisheries and publications are in development to understand the efficacy of the national ban on shark fishing and its impact on shark populations and stakeholder livelihoods.