First Fair Trade Certified Accommodation in KwaZulu Natal

Wed, 28 Sep 2011
Portfolio Collection
First Fair Trade Certified Accommodation in KwaZulu Natal
Three Tree Hill Lodge is the first tourism accommodation establishment to be Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA)-certified in KwaZulu Natal.

This recent addition to the FTTSA family is situated against the backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountains between Ladysmith and Bergville, overlooking the historical site of the Battle of Spionkop.
 

FTTSA certification is an independent endorsement of fair and responsible tourism practice in South Africa. It is based on adherence to specific criteria including fair wages and working conditions, fair distribution of benefits, ethical business practice, and respect for human rights, culture and the environment. Certification is offered on a voluntary basis to providers of tourist accommodation, activities and attractions.
 

One of FTTSA''s key principles is Respect for Environment, which can be measured in relation to planning, operational management, and investment in conservation activities. In order to reduce their overall environmental footprint, Three Tree Hill Lodge has comprehensive procedures and systems in place to reduce energy usage and to manage waste responsibly.

For example, they use energy-saving light bulbs throughout the lodge, insulate walls and ceilings and purchase appliances and equipment with energy saving in mind -- the recently-purchased solar cooker being one example that is proving to be a big hit (and source of curiosity) with staff and guests alike! A monthly electricity monitoring chart is posted in the kitchen, which helps everyone to keep a tab on energy consumption trends. 

A very thorough recycling programme ensures that not only paper, cardboard, glass, plastic and tins but also printer cartridges, old stationery, soap and candle wax are re-used in various forms and then recycled. Cereal & biscuit boxes, toilet rolls and magazines are taken to the community pre-school for use in their art classes.

All garden and kitchen waste is composted or fed to earthworms to produce vermicompost (fertiliser for the on-site vegetable and herb garden).

Guest amenities are South African and biodegradable and are decanted into glass containers in order to reduce packaging.

Portfolio Collection congratulates and commends Three Trees on their excellent work and accreditation!

 

Stay at Three Trees at Spionkop

 

Enjoy Fair Trade and luxury at Three Trees Hill Lodge. Set in the Battlefields of Kwazulu Natal, overlooking the secluded malaria-free valley of Spioenkop Game Reserve, where aloes, acacias, giraffe, zebra and rhino create a truly African setting in the foothills of the Drakensberg. Three Trees at Spioenkop offers stylish lodge accommodation and invites guests to relax and explore this spectacular area.

Large Colonial style verandahs, spacious rooms, a secluded pool and sweeping views infuse the experience with a tangible sense of history

 

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