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“Climate change is massive, but we are doing so much good here. “
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Conservation is becoming a daily conversation topic on a global level. Awareness and efforts to sustain and preserve our wonderful planet are occurring throughout the world in a multitude of ways from veganism to wildlife protection to waste-free living. One of the biggest conservation issues is plastic. Parts of the world, including parts of our beautiful South Africa, are drowning in plastic. The average South African uses between 30kg to 50kg of plastic a year – that’s the average weight of an impala or a cheetah.
Lalibela is working to live out our conservation in every aspect, and this includes tackling the plastic issue. In the words of Charmaine, our lovely hospitality manager at Kichaka Lodge:
“Climate change is massive, but we are doing so much good here. We are removing the alien trees, we are recycling, getting rid of plastic and creating awareness amongst the staff. They are now sourcing their own water now that the jojo’s have arrived. I believe it. Education, Awareness and Action. And we live it here on Lalibela.”
Behind the Scenes
As much as our passion lies in preserving the wildlife and eco-system of the Eastern Cape, we cannot ignore the problem of plastic and waste in general. If you take a look behind the scenes of Lalibela you won’t get far without spotting rows of green, black, yellow, red and blue trash cans / waste bins, from the lodge kitchens, to staff residences and the workshop. We have a recycling center on site where we recycle all recyclable items. As Charne said, it’s about awareness. We want everyone here to be aware of the importance of reducing our waste and contributing to the conservation cause.
The Lodges
Throughout the lodges, if you take a closer look, you’ll notice a reduction in plastic itself. All toiletries are packaged in either glass bottles or paper wrappings. There is not a plastic straw in sight. Reusable glass water bottles are replacing plastic ones.
The idea of reducing waste or recycling is daunting at first but it does not have to be done perfectly. Small efforts every day are what make a difference in the long run.
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“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
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Margaret Mead