sustainability at natu
Our Commitment
Our eco escape plays a critical role in protecting and regenerating both the natural environment and local cultural heritage. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Aruba’s National Conservation Foundation’s Multi-Annual Corporate Strategy (MACS) 2023-2032, we are dedicated to not just minimizing our footprint, but actively restoring nature and preserving the history of our family’s land.
Our efforts have gained widespread support from various departments focused on Aruba’s nature and sustainability, as well as the local community, helping to drive our mission forward. This network of partners ensures that we stay aligned with best practices in conservation and regenerative tourism and continue to innovate in our sustainability journey.
By staying with us, you are playing an active role in the regeneration of Aruba’s natural environment and the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. Together, we can create a more sustainable, balanced, and beautiful future for the island and its people.
Josy & Roel
Our Commitment
Our eco escape plays a critical role in protecting and regenerating both the natural environment and local cultural heritage. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Aruba’s National Conservation Foundation’s Multi-Annual Corporate Strategy (MACS) 2023-2032, we are dedicated to not just minimizing our footprint, but actively restoring nature and preserving the history of our family’s land.
Our efforts have gained widespread support from various departments focused on Aruba’s nature and sustainability, as well as the local community, helping to drive our mission forward. This network of partners ensures that we stay aligned with best practices in conservation and regenerative tourism and continue to innovate in our sustainability journey.
By staying with us, you are playing an active role in the regeneration of Aruba’s natural environment and the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. Together, we can create a more sustainable, balanced, and beautiful future for the island and its people.
Josy & Roel
SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES AT NATU
CORE PRACTICES
We have embraced a regenerative approach to tourism, ensuring that every aspect of our operations enhances, rather than harms, the surrounding environment and community. Below are some of the core practices that reflect our commitment to sustainability:
– Solar Power and Off-Grid Operations
Our entire eco escape is powered by solar energy, allowing us to remain fully off-grid and minimize our reliance on non-renewable resources. This reduces our carbon footprint and aligns with UN SDG 13: Climate Action. In addition, our electric company car is also powered by solar energy, ensuring that even our transportation has a minimal environmental impact.
– Reusing Materials and Wastewater
We prioritize the reuse of reclaimed materials in all of our building efforts. For instance, dead trees that had to be removed are now repurposed into building structures, creating a closed-loop system that minimizes waste. Additionally, we reuse wastewater, reducing freshwater consumption and supporting local ecosystem health in line with UN SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.
– Building With Nature
To preserve the natural landscape, our tents are built on pillars to minimize soil disruption. We avoid large-scale land clearing and do not use bulldozers. Instead, we follow selective land clearing when necessary, keeping our impact as light as possible. We also use existing wildlife corridors, ensuring that we do not disturb the movement of local fauna, maintaining biodiversity in line with SDG 15: Life on Land.
– Sourcing Sustainable, Durable Materials
We take great care in sourcing building materials, focusing on those that are tried and tested in extreme climates for longevity and sustainability. This ensures that we are not only reducing our environmental footprint today but also minimizing the need for future resource use. By focusing on sustainability in material sourcing, we align with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Environmental Regeneration Initiatives
– Micro Organic Farm (“Hofi”)
We are establishing a micro organic fruit and vegetable farm, known as a “hofi”, to provide fresh produce for our guests and community. This initiative connects to sustainable agriculture and promotes local, organic food production. This aligns with SDG 2: Zero Hunger by promoting food security through organic farming practices.
– Invasive Species Removal and Native Planting
We are actively removing invasive species, such as Cordon de San Francisco, and replanting the land with native trees and old fruit species that were historically part of the landscape but had died due to disease. This not only restores the local biodiversity but also preserves the agricultural heritage of the land.
– Research on Rainwater Harvesting
We are researching traditional and modern techniques for rainwater harvesting, ensuring that our water use aligns with the natural cycles of the area. This project draws on local knowledge and scientific research to promote sustainable water management, such as the research done by the University of Aruba in collaboration with the University of Utrecht.
Preserving Local Culture and Heritage
While our primary focus is environmental regeneration, we are also dedicated to preserving and celebrating the cultural and historical heritage of the area.
– Restoring Historic Water Wells: As part of our commitment to cultural sustainability, we are planning to restore the 100+ year-old historic water wells on our property. These wells were once a critical resource for the community, and we are using them to teach visitors about traditional water management practices.
– Education and Outreach: We plan to educate visitors on both local history and sustainability practices. This outreach extends beyond our eco escape through our Instagram page, where we share knowledge about sustainable practices and cultural heritage with a wider audience, contributing to SDG 4: Quality Education.
Join Our Regenerative Journey
Your stay at our eco escape directly supports our sustainability and regeneration efforts. Here’s how you can make a positive impact:
– Respect the Land: Stick to designated paths and avoid disturbing wildlife.
– Use Water Responsibly: Help us conserve water by reusing towels and limiting water use where possible.
– Support Local Culture: Participate in our workshops and learn about the history and traditions of the land.
– Leave No Trace: Dispose of waste properly and avoid bringing plastic or disposable items into the area.