Sustainability & Environmental Consulting

In 2020, Singita, an ecotourism and conservation brand, faced significant challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which not only impacted their business operations but also heightened the urgency of addressing environmental issues. The pandemic led to an increase in personal protective equipment (PPE) waste, with the Marine Conservation Society reporting that PPE was found on 30% of the beaches cleaned. Despite these pressures, Singita remained committed to sustainability while implementing health and safety protocols.

To navigate the dual crises of health and environmental sustainability, Singita adopted several innovative solutions. They introduced washable and reusable masks for staff, ensuring that hygiene standards were met without contributing to single-use waste. Additionally, they replaced traditional hot towels with those made from 100% natural bamboo wood pulp, which biodegrades within 45 days. Sanitizer and soap stations were equipped with refillable dispensers, and staff were tasked with cleaning and sterilizing reusable glass bottles and crockery daily, rather than resorting to single-use items.

Singita also adapted their guest services to align with hygiene requirements while minimizing waste. Snacks provided to guests were individually wrapped in biodegradable materials, and any non-recyclable items, such as disposable latex gloves, were disposed of safely in bio-hazard grade bins. Furthermore, they continued to offer outdoor cooking classes, which not only maintained hygiene through fresh air but also generated donor funds to support community programs.

During the lockdown, with no guests available for game drives, Singita launched 'virtual drives' that attracted over 100 participants at a time, significantly reducing diesel consumption by utilizing only one trip's worth of fuel. This initiative not only kept the connection with their audience alive but also reinforced their commitment to sustainability during challenging times. Through these measures, Singita demonstrated that it is possible to uphold health standards while simultaneously advancing environmental goals, showcasing a model of resilience and innovation in the face of crisis.