The Seychelles’ Alphonse Island may appear to be a quintessential luxury escape, with its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and high-end beach bungalows costing over $1,000 a night. However, this private island, located in the Outer Islands of the Seychelles, is also a pioneer in sustainability.
Director Keith Rose-Innes spearheads Alphonse Island’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, with a particular focus on “The Farm.” This sustainability project involves cultivating organic fruits and vegetables to supply the island’s restaurants and other Blue Safaris properties, reducing food miles and carbon emissions.
Rose-Innes emphasizes the importance of sustainability, stating, “If you’re flying in produce, it’s not sustainable.” The alternative of bringing produce by boat is not only time-consuming but also environmentally harmful. Alphonse Island aims to grow its own produce, creating a closed system where unused items are used for compost.
The Farm follows a seasonal calendar, cultivating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Despite challenges like shallow soil with salt deposits, Alphonse Island has achieved significant success. The redevelopment introduced fully shaded tunnels, seeding beds, automated watering systems, and different planting regimes.
Currently producing 27.6 tonnes of fruit, vegetables, and herbs annually, The Farm’s closed system minimizes the need for imports. Alphonse Island now grows approximately 75% of its own produce, marking a substantial shift toward sustainability.
The initiative has earned Alphonse Island recognition, making it a finalist in the Star Sustainability Initiative Awards 2023. However, Rose-Innes aims to go further, implementing strict rules like not importing mineral water to reduce plastic waste. The island relies on desalinated or rainwater for fresh water and utilizes over 2,000 solar panels for 80% of its energy needs.
Beyond food, energy, and water, Alphonse Island adopts sustainable fishing practices. Fish are caught using lines from deep waters, away from coral reefs and dive areas, ensuring responsible fishing practices.
The island’s commitment extends to conservation efforts, with a team of scientists and conservationists dedicated to preserving the delicate ecosystem. Guests contribute to an independent foundation, donating $30 per person per day to support the protection of these destinations. Scientific monitoring guides responsible activities on the island.
Rose-Innes believes in maintaining the Seychelles’ natural wonders while supporting the local economy through responsible tourism. Despite the challenges and added costs associated with sustainable practices, he emphasizes the importance of setting an example for responsible practices in unique destinations.
The pristine environment, teeming with marine life and diverse activities, makes Alphonse Island a unique destination. From rays and sharks in the shallows to daily nesting Hawksbill turtles, the island showcases the wonders of a pristine underwater perspective.
As concerns about the environmental impact of tourism grow, Rose-Innes asserts that achieving balance is possible. Alphonse Island’s commitment to sustainability demonstrates that being responsible in remote destinations is not only feasible but also sets an example for responsible practices globally.
In conclusion, Alphonse Island in the Seychelles stands as a beacon of sustainable luxury, proving that responsible practices can coexist with luxury travel in a pristine environment.