At Shangri-La Boracay, we are deeply committed to upholding our corporate social responsibility initiatives, which encompass a range of activities aimed at nurturing both our communities and the environment. Our dedication to making a positive impact can be seen through our various endeavors, including community engagement, environmental conservation, employee development, sustainable supply chain practices, and prioritizing health and safety.
Shangri-La Boracay takes the lead in plastic reduction efforts on the island. Our water bottling plant, a first on the island, utilises a unique classic crystal purification system that produces and serves both still and sparkling water options in reusable glass bottles. This initiative enables guests to enjoy their water sustainably, resulting in a remarkable reduction of at least 300,000 plastic bottles annually.
In addition to our ongoing efforts to reduce plastic waste, we have implemented in-room refillable soap, shampoo, and lotion dispensers, as well as the use of biodegradable straws. These measures ensure a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to guest amenities.
In June 2022, Shangri-La Boracay welcomed new bee colonies as part of our pursuit towards being Rooted in Nature. These remarkable pollinators, alongside butterflies, fruit bats, moths, and birds, play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem. Additionally, bees provide us with delicious, highly nutritious honey, which holds great market value.
As part of our pursuit towards edutainment, we offer an engaging Bee Apiary tour where guests can witness the colonies firsthand, engage in informative discussions about bees, and savour the taste of fresh honey. To add a touch of sweetness, we also feature Gin in Bonnet cocktails that showcase the delightful flavour of our honey.
In our commitment towards the implementation of zero plastic usage, Shangri-La Boracay has embraced a proactive approach to reducing and eliminating the use of plastics. We began by reevaluating our key card system, transitioning from PVC plastic cards to environmentally friendly alternatives. By making these small yet significant choices, we are hoping to contribute to the larger goal of preserving and protecting our environment.
We have launched a conservation project that allows guests and colleagues to create unique fish houses for our marine animals in the waters surrounding Boracay. Engaging in this project not only provides an enjoyable activity but also makes a meaningful impact on the environment. By providing shelters and protection for fish and other marine animals, we actively contribute to the growth of live coral coverage in Banyugan and Punta Bunga beaches.
Giant clams (Tridacna gigas) or locally known as Taklobo play a vital role in coral reefs by filtering and purifying ocean water, providing structure to the reefs, and offering food and shelter to various marine organisms. Due to their endangered status, it is crucial to prioritise the well-being of these gentle giants.
At Shangri-La Boracay, we take pride in being the keepers of eight giant clams located at Punta Bunga beach. During our Snorkeling Safari activity, guests have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. These clams are safeguarded within the Municipal Protected Area (MPA) under the care of Shangri-La Boracay, ensuring their safety and enabling their future propagation.
At Shangri-La Boracay, we take great pride in actively participating in Rooted in Nature, the culinary and sustainability program of the Shangri-La Group. Our primary objective is to provide guests with exceptional dining experiences while offering a diverse selection of menu options sourced sustainably, supporting local producers, and contributing to the local community.
In line with our commitment, Shangri-La Boracay will source only cage-free eggs by 2026 or earlier, as soon as locally accessible suppliers can be identified. By maintaining stringent standards and prioritising food safety, we not only advocate for reduced environmental impact but also ensure that our guests enjoy high-quality dining experiences.