Annual Report - Orascom Development

El Gouna
Environmental initiatives
The Green Gouna environmental organisation was founded by
residents in 2002, with the objective of developing the resort as an
ecotourism destination. Green Gouna pursues this goal by involving
the entire community in the protection and preservation of the
delicate Red Sea and El Gouna environments through: education;
environmental activities; and the establishment and enforcement
of environmental standards and guidelines.
Over 80% of El Gouna waste is recycled
Awards
El Gouna is recognised as one of Egypt’s most environmentally friendly
holiday destinations. It has been awarded four Green Globe certificates
by Green Globe International, a non-profit organization that promotes
environmentally and socially responsible tourism. OHD works hard to
preserve, protect and maintain the unique El Gouna environment in
cooperation with local hotels, businesses, residents and visitors.
Water management
In building the lagoons and inlets which feature prominently in the
El Gouna design, experts were brought in to design the water
movement around the town. Within this system, a process for
monitoring water quality was implemented that helps maintain its
condition.
El Gouna produces its own water by desalinating sea and well water
and utilising treated waste water for irrigation of the golf course and
greenery throughout the resort. Guests are requested to participate
in these efforts by asking hotel housekeeping to change room towels
and bed linens only every other day.
Recycling and waste management
El Gouna practices waste separation and recycles materials locally
and in collaboration with other cities in Egypt. Over 80% of El Gouna
waste is recycled. We even utilise recycled waste to pave our sidewalks
and streets.
Taba Heights
Hotel awards
Green Globe Awards for travel and tourism are awarded to applicants
for demonstrating responsible and sustainable environmental and
social activity; and for achieving improved environmental and social
outcomes. Ranging from water usage to the protection of air quality
and the management of social and cultural issues, they are recognised
certificates of achievement. Hotels with Green Globe certificates are:
• Moevenpick Resort & Spa
• Sheraton Miramar Resort
• Steigenberger Golf Resort
• Club Med Village El Gouna
• Panorama Bungalows Resort
Underwater preservation in Taba Heights
Diving is a major attraction of the Red Sea and we recognise our part in
the preservation of the underwater environment. The resort management
at Taba Heights have installed a total of sixteen mantaray moorings in
the area with the help of HEPCA, an Egyptian non-profit group. A base
pin is drilled into the sea-floor – away from the reef – and cemented in
place, with a bright surface float highlighting the location. This method of
mooring protects the reef from anchors bring dropped onto the coral.