Nestled in the breathtaking region of Bel Ombre, Heritage Resorts has established itself as a true trailblazer in sustainable hospitality. With a dedicated team committed to preserving the environment and supporting the local community, Heritage Resorts has redefined the concept of responsible luxury by ensuring that each business is led in a more responsible manner than traditional practices. Let’s explore the initiatives driving Heritage Resorts towards a more sustainable future, as expressed by the individuals who play a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s sustainability efforts: Raoul Maurel, Chief Operating Officer of Heritage Resorts; Alexandre Piat, Head of Sustainability at Rogers Hospitality; and Chef Kelley Moothen of Heritage Awali.
The Locavorism Approach
“Embracing sustainability lies at the very heart of Heritage Resorts,” affirms Raoul Maurel, Chief Operating Officer. “We are dedicated to providing exceptional experiences to our guests while minimizing our environmental impact and championing local communities.”
Supporting Local Producers and Reducing the Carbon Footprint
Alexandre Piat, Head of Sustainability at Rogers Hospitality, sheds light on the daily operations that set Heritage Resorts apart. “Our unwavering commitment to the Locavorism approach is a testament to our dedication to supporting local and regional producers and reducing our carbon footprint. By closely collaborating with farmers in Bel Ombre, a beautiful region in the South of Mauritius, and on a regional scale, we source a diverse range of ingredients locally, ensuring freshness and contributing to the economic growth of the community.”
Culinary Experiences Rooted in Sustainability and Cultural Heritage
Chef Kelley Moothen of Heritage Awali, the best all-inclusive hotel in Mauritius, takes immense pride in crafting culinary experiences that authentically capture the flavors of Mauritius. “We firmly believe in utilizing local and seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that pay homage to the culinary traditions of this magnificent island. It provides us with an opportunity to connect with the land and support local farmers, ensuring that each plate tells a compelling story of sustainability and cultural heritage. For instance, we source fruits and vegetables like palm heart, pineapple, and pumpkin from Bel Ombre, enhancing the authentic taste of our dishes.”
Innovative Techniques to Minimize Food Waste and Eco-Friendly Packaging
To minimize food waste, Heritage Resorts employs innovative techniques in their kitchens. Raoul Maurel explains, “As part of our sustainability journey, cooking without wastage holds a paramount role. Our culinary team places emphasis on intelligent portioning, innovative ingredient reuse, and discovering inventive methods to minimize excess. A remarkable example from our mixology competition held back in May 2023 at C Beach Club — an internationally recognized mixologist, Harp Mann, awarded first prize to one of our bartenders for their creative idea of repurposing tonic without gas or even flat champagne. This example not only highlights our dedication to sustainability but also reinforces our ability to offer guests exceptional dining experiences.” The commitment to sustainability extends beyond the kitchen. Raoul Maurel highlights their packaging standards: “At Heritage Resorts, we prioritize eco-friendly packaging materials. We aim to reduce single-use plastics and embrace recyclable and biodegradable alternatives.”
Reducing Carbon Emissions and Waste Management
Heritage Resorts has implemented various measures to reduce its carbon emissions. Alexandre Piat explains, “Through the implementation of energy-efficient practices and the adoption of energy-saving technologies, we have taken remarkable steps in reducing our carbon footprint. Furthermore, our waste management system prioritizes recycling and composting, effectively minimizing our environmental impact. It is worth mentioning that we place great emphasis on waste diversion from our national landfill, by repurposing leftover food through partnerships. For instance, we also collaborate with Foodwise, a local NGO, to redistribute surplus food to those in need. Through these initiatives, we contribute to environmental sustainability and positively impact our local community.”
Continued Efforts in Emissions Reduction
While Heritage Resorts has achieved remarkable progress in reducing emissions, they also prioritize further reduction efforts. Alexandre Piat explains, “We understand that certain emissions are inevitable, especially in the hospitality industry. To address this, we have established an offsetting program as a last resort for the emissions we cannot currently eliminate. However, our primary focus remains on emissions reduction.” Through initiatives such as energy-efficient equipment, comprehensive team training, and innovative implementations, Heritage Resorts actively works towards minimizing their environmental footprint and maintaining a harmonious balance between operations and the environment.
Luxury, Sustainability, and Cultural Appreciation at Heritage Resorts
Heritage Resorts sets the bar high for sustainable hospitality in Mauritius, whilst embracing the principles of the circular economy. With their Locavorism approach, menu adaptations, waste reduction techniques, packaging standards, and efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the island of Mauritius, they are leading the way towards an environmentally conscious future. By honoring local traditions and supporting the community, Heritage Resorts invites guests to experience the beauty of Mauritius while leaving a positive impact on the environment. It’s a harmonious blend of luxury, sustainability, and cultural appreciation that defines the essence of Heritage Resorts.
