Tourism-Tattler-November-2017

SEYCHELLES
ECO-FRIENDLY
HOTELS &
SPECIAL FEATURE
AFRICA’S SUSTAINABLE TOURISM GEMS
& ATTRACTIONS
Acajou Beach Resort
Dating back to its opening in 1996, the Acajou Beach Resort has had ecology at
the heart of its ethos. The hotel is named after the French word for ‘mahogany’
in reference to the natural timber-themed design of its construction, using
wood specifically cultivated in an environmentally friendly manner.
In keeping with this commitment to the environment, the resort and its 52
rooms were refurbished in 2014 utilising modern technology to dramatically
reduce its carbon footprint.
The installation of a photovoltaic solar panel system resulted in 50 percent of
the resort’s lighting and air-conditioning needs being powered by the sun - a
major long-term investment for a locally owned hotel.
To further reduce energy consumption, Acajou installed an energy management
system (EMS) and efficient LED lighting in every room. The EMS features sensors
that detect when doors to a room are open or ajar and automatically switches
off the air-conditioning unit after several minutes if not closed.
A waste management system and sewage treatment plant were also installed
to limit the impact of waste that the resort generates in its operations. Acajou
also embarked on a composting project for the landscaped gardens and for its
own subsistence produce, in the form of vegetables, fruits and spices that are
grown on site.
Acajou’s environmental policy also extends to its stretch of pristine Côte d’Or
beachfront where the thick shrubs known in Creole as vouloutier (scaevola
taccada - an excellent antidiabetic & antiinflamatory remedy) are left untouched
to avoid beach erosion, just as nature intended. This policy has recently attracted
Hawksbill sea turtles, which prefer to nest under the coastal vegetation.
Travel. Enjoy. Respect. #IY2017
QUICK LINKS:
+248 438 5300 acajou@seychelles.net www.acajouseychelles.com
NOVEMBER 2017 Tourism Tattler Trade Journal 07