Wilderness
Sustainability
Wilderness views responsible nature-based tourism as the most effective and practical vehicle to ensure the sustainability of African conservation in the modern era. Our sustainability strategy is encapsulated by “the 4Cs”: Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce. The principles of each C are explored briefly below.
Commerce
Commence deals with our ecotourism offering and is perhaps the most critical element to sustainability in the modern world. We can only make a difference in Africa if we are doing well. If our business is profitable, based on sound business principles and on good, solid moral values, then we can make good on our promise to make a difference.
Conservation
Separated into two elements: Environmental Management Systems deals with how we build and manage our camps in the most eco-friendly way possible to ensure that we have the lowest possible carbon footprint; Biodiversity Conservation covers the understanding, management and protection of the wildlife and ecosystems with which we are involved. Where relevant, we help to protect these, promote the reintroduction of indigenous species, and rehabilitate natural environments through vegetation management. We also support research projects that enhance the understanding of our areas.
Community
People are the heart of our business. We believe in honest, mutually beneficial and dignified relationships with our rural community partners in ways that deliver a meaningful and life-changing share of the proceeds of responsible ecotourism to all stakeholders. Our mechanisms include community-centric employment, joint ventures, education and training, social and health benefits, capacity-building and infrastructure development.
Culture
Culture is a multifaceted element that governs respect for the culture of all employees as well as remote rural communities surrounding the conservation areas. This is reflected in: a healthy social environment in camp; area-appropriate camp design, décor, entertainment and meals; respect for traditional rights within and surrounding the conservation area; and communication of the area’s traditional culture to guests and staff.
