Drakensberg luxury lodge, KwaZulu Natal
How this holiday makes a difference
Environment
We were the first property in Kzn to become accredited with the Green Leaf Environmental Standard - they do a thorough audit on all Environmental Aspects of the business and if 75% is achieved then Green Leaf Staus is awarded.
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.
Community
We are the first property in Kzn to be Fair Trade Accredited - a thorough and exact audit on all aspects of the business - esp relating to business practice, staff treatment, pay, working conditions etc.
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.
