Sustainability & Environmental Consulting

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Singita, an ecotourism and conservation company operating in Africa, faced significant challenges due to an 80% drop in international arrivals, which threatened over 100 million direct tourism jobs globally. In response to these unprecedented times, Singita prioritized the protection of its staff and the surrounding communities, demonstrating a strong commitment to its One Planet Living principles.

To safeguard jobs, Singita implemented measures to minimize layoffs, particularly in regions where government support was lacking. Initially, senior staff salaries were reduced while junior staff salaries remained intact. Only after it became clear that the lodges would remain closed for an extended period did Singita begin to cut junior salaries, ensuring that the most vulnerable employees were protected as much as possible. Remarkably, there was no loss of staff across any of Singita’s lodges throughout the year, a significant achievement in the face of widespread industry layoffs. Additionally, the Singita Lowveld Trust, Singita’s non-profit partner, distributed over 2,800 food parcels, benefiting 11,500 individuals in local communities.

Singita also launched a new health and wellness initiative aimed at both staff and guests, enhancing the overall guest experience while addressing the growing need for stress relief during the pandemic. This initiative was part of Singita's commitment to the 'health and happiness' principle of One Planet Living. Furthermore, the company took advantage of the shutdown to enhance internal training programs, covering a wide range of topics from leadership to sustainability, which included participation in One Planet Living Action Plan training for four staff members.

The pandemic prompted Singita to adopt new operational practices, such as remote sign-offs for refurbishment projects and a grocery collection service for staff, which streamlined processes and reduced unnecessary travel. These changes not only addressed immediate challenges but also positioned Singita to enhance its operational efficiency moving forward. Overall, Singita's proactive response to the Covid crisis not only reinforced its commitment to staff wellbeing but also highlighted its leadership in sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.