Eco-Tourism
Leave
the smallest impact on the environment
Mashovhela
Lodge is setting new standards for Eco-Tourism with its Green and
Responsible Tourism policies, strict environmental and conservation
policies, alternative energy usage and community development projects.
Detached
entirely from Eskom's power-grid and in order to minimize the emission
of green house gases, the lodge runs on alternative, renewable and
sustainable energy. Our hot water is heated by solar energy, supplemented
by (eucalyptus) wood-fired boilers. For electricity we rely on photovoltaic
solar energy, supplemented by diesel generators. It is intended
to eventually run our diesel generators on biodiesel and wood gas
produced from combustible biomass.
With
the ongoing eradication of invasive exotic eucalyptus and wattle
trees from the reserve we have an ongoing supply of combustible
biomass, firewood and timber. The timber is utilized for the woodwork,
including almost all the furniture, at the Lodge.
Our
guests are encouraged to support our environmental endeavours by
using hot water and electricity sparingly, and to help us protect
our natural heritage site.
The
Venda styled lodge also has a local community development element
to it, through employment of lodge staff and dancers, education
and supporting their trade in Arts and Crafts. It is hoped that
in the near future we will be introducing tours to their local village
so that travelers can witness the day-to-day lifestyle of the Venda
people.
The
community is aware of the vision we have for the property and the
community, making them aware of the environment and how to conserve
it and ensure future generations can benefit from it. " Dr
Hahn's harmonious relationship with the local chief and his people
will ensure that the conservation efforts of the nature reserve
will prevail for the benefit of the prosperity.
Our
knowledge and skills in eco-friendly living are being passed on
through training to the local community, and we are readily available
to educate communities and resorts elsewhere in southern Africa.
Click
here to download our brochure (PDF 287kb)
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